Yimucao Herba Leonuri
The source is from the aerial parts of Leonurus heterophyclus Sweet, family Labiatae. The medicinal material is produced in all areas of China, cut in summer, dried in the sun. The crude is used or decocted into extract for being used.
Medicinal Properties Pungent and bitter in flavor, slightly cold in nature and attributive to the heart, liver and bladder meridians.
Actions Promote blood circulation and regulate menstruation, promote diuresis and relieve edema.
Application
1. For blood stasis syndrome with unsmooth menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain and lochiostasis, it is usually combined with Chuanxiong ( Rhizoma Chuanxiong), Danggui ( Radix Angelicae Sinensis ), and Chishaoyao (Radix Paeoniae Rubra ).
2. For dysuria and edema, especially for edema and dysuria due to stagnation of water, it can be used alone or together with Baimaogen (Rhizoma Imperatae) and Zelan (Herba Lycopy) so as to strengthen the effects of promoting diuresis and relieving edema.
Besides, it is also used to treat ulcer and carbuncle, and skin itching rash. It may be used orally or externally.
Usage and Dosage 10 - 15 g is used in decoction for oral use, large dosage may be 30 g and just right amount is for external use.
Notes Contraindicated for pregnant women and used with caution for deficiency of the blood without stasis.
