Gan Cao Shao (Licorice Tips) is a neutral, sweet herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) derived from the tips of Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots. While regular Gan Cao is well known for harmonizing formulas and tonifying Qi, Gan Cao Shao has a more focused action on invigorating blood circulation and clearing blood stasis. It is commonly used in gynecological applications for amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain due to blood stasis. Gan Cao Shao also supports the resolution of swellings and nodules by improving circulation and dispersing stagnation.
Fonctions et avantages
Revigore le sang et élimine les stases
Promotes circulation, relieving pain from blood stagnation.
Regulates Menstruation
Used for menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, and painful periods caused by stasis.
Reduces Swelling and Dissolves Nodules
Helps in resolving lumps, masses, and localized inflammation.
Assists Postpartum Recovery
Relieves abdominal pain and promotes uterine healing after childbirth.
Indications (qui peut en bénéficier ?)
✔ Women with irregular or painful periods due to stasis.
✔ Individuals with abdominal or pelvic pain from poor circulation.
✔ Those recovering postpartum with abdominal discomfort.
✔ Patients with nodules or localized swellings from stagnation.
Diagnostic de la langue et du pouls en MTC
Langue : Sombre ou avec des taches violettes, indiquant une stase sanguine.
Pulse: Choppy or wiry, reflecting stagnant circulation.
Modèles apparentés de la MTC
Stase de sang dans le Jiao inférieur - Provoque des douleurs menstruelles, des caillots et des cycles irréguliers.
Postpartum Blood Stasis – Leads to abdominal pain and slow recovery.
Localized Blood Stagnation – Produces lumps, nodules, or swelling.
Applications cliniques (pour référence uniquement)
Painful Menstruation – Improves blood flow and reduces clotting.
Amenorrhea – Regulates cycles by resolving stasis.
Postpartum Pain – Promotes uterine healing and circulation.
Nodules and Masses – Breaks down stagnation and eases discomfort.
Common Herbal Formulas with Gan Cao Shao
Often combined with Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong for menstrual pain, or with Tao Ren and Hong Hua for strong stasis resolution.
Précautions et contre-indications
Éviter pendant la grossesse, sauf sur prescription d'un professionnel.
Ne convient pas aux saignements menstruels abondants sans stase.
Should not be confused with regular Gan Cao for Qi tonification.
Recommandations en matière de mode de vie et d'alimentation
✔ Eat circulation-supporting foods like turmeric, ginger, and dark leafy greens.
✔ Avoid cold, raw foods that can slow blood movement.
✔ Engage in gentle stretching or walking to encourage circulation.
✔ Manage stress, as it can contribute to stagnation.
Conclusion
Gan Cao Shao (Licorice Tips) is a neutral, sweet herb in TCM that invigorates blood, regulates menstruation, reduces swelling, and supports postpartum recovery. It is particularly suited for gynecological conditions caused by blood stasis.
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