Prunella (Xia Ku Cao)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Prunella (Xia Ku Cao)

The flowering spike of the Prunella plant is used to treat inflammatory diseases and ulcers in the mouth and throat. Xia Ku Cao also can clear fire from the liver and gallbladder to improve eyesight. It reduces phlegm and can treat diarrhea, hemorrhaging and gynecological problems. It has been used to clear vision problems as it treats liver and gallbladder problems.

Clinical Use (Chinese):
Clears liver and brightens the eyes – ascending liver fire with red, painful, swollen eyes, headache, and dizziness. Clears heat and dissipates lumps such as neck lumps, scrofula, lipoma, goiter, swollen glands due to phlegm fire.

Latin Name:
Spica prunellae vulgaris
Prunella vulgaris

Chinese Name:
Xia Ku Cao

Common Names:
Prunella, Self Heal, All Heal, heart-of-the-earth, carpenter’s herb, brownwort, blue curls

Parts Used:
The flowering spike

Properties:
Bitter and pungent, cold.

Cautions:
Avoid in patients with stomach or spleen deficiency, do not use in those who have low blood pressure.

*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.