Gastrodia (Tian Ma)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Gastrodia (Tian Ma)

Gastrodia or Tian Ma is used for dizziness and headaches. In China they also use it to treat brain disorders and hypertension. It has been used to treat epilepsy or stroke, and recent studies have shown it to improve blood circulation.

Clinical Use (Chinese):
To calm the liver wind. Gastrodia is used for internal liver wind, such as convulsions, tetanus and epilepsy, as well as dizziness and headache due to excess liver yang.

Latin Name:
Gastrodiae elata

Chinese Name:
Tian Ma

Common Names:
Gastrodia, Gastrodia Tuber

Parts Used:
Rhizome

Properties:
Sweet in taste and neutral in nature

Folk Lore:
An interesting fact: Gastrodia is an unusual plant to grow. It needs two other plants to provide it with special nutrients in order of it to sprout and grow. It needs the Armillaria mellea, a type of mushroom, to maintain its nutrient while it grows and Mycena osmundicola, another fungus, for it to germinate the seed.

Cautions:
Should not be used in case of yin deficient.

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

**This information is provided to assist trained practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine with selection of products. If you are not familiar with these formulas or concepts please consult an acupuncturist or herbal practitioner trained in the use of Chinese herbs or refer to more in-depth reference materials. Chinese herbal remedies are meant to improve health and function, not act as a substitute for medical care.