Chuan Xiong is the dried rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong, a warming and aromatic herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to invigorate blood, move Qi, and relieve pain. It is one of the most important herbs for treating blood stasis and is frequently used in formulas addressing menstrual disorders, trauma, and various types of headaches. Chuan Xiong is unique in that it not only moves the blood but also unblocks Qi, making it essential in treating conditions where blood stasis and Qi stagnation are intertwined.
Fonctions et avantages
Invigorates Blood and Promotes Qi Movement
Chuan Xiong activates blood circulation and moves Qi, making it ideal for conditions involving pain due to blood stasis. It is commonly used in gynecological disorders such as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain.
Dispels Wind and Alleviates Pain
It is often used to relieve headaches—whether due to wind, cold, heat, or blood stasis—especially those that affect the temples, vertex, or are associated with tightness or pressure.
Reduces Swelling and Expels Wind-Damp
Chuan Xiong helps with Bi syndrome (painful obstruction) in joints and muscles, especially when there is a component of blood stasis or cold-induced pain.
Indications
Chuan Xiong is frequently prescribed for individuals with symptoms such as fixed or sharp pain, menstrual irregularities, clotting during periods, or postpartum pain. It is also used for chronic headaches, dizziness due to blood stasis, and pain from traumatic injuries or arthritic conditions involving cold and dampness.
Diagnostic de la langue et du pouls en MTC
The tongue may appear dark or with purple spots, often with a thin white or slightly greasy coating. The pulse is typically choppy or wiry, reflecting stagnation of blood or constrained Qi.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Chuan Xiong
Chuan Xiong is used in patterns involving blood stasis, such as menstrual disorders or postpartum stagnation. It is also effective in Qi stagnation with pain, wind-cold headaches, and traumatic injuries. Its ability to enter the Liver and Pericardium channels allows it to treat both gynecological and neurological symptoms.
Précautions et contre-indications
Chuan Xiong should not be used in cases of Yin deficiency with heat or in individuals with excessive bleeding. It is also contraindicated during pregnancy unless under the guidance of a professional, due to its strong blood-invigorating action. Use with caution in individuals who tend to run hot or have dryness.
Conclusion
Chuan Xiong is a core herb in TCM for promoting blood flow, moving Qi, and relieving pain. Whether treating menstrual pain, traumatic injury, or headaches, it offers a dynamic approach to resolving stagnation and enhancing circulation. Its warming, penetrating nature makes it a powerful ally in many classical and modern herbal formulas.
