2Niu Xi-Achyranthes Root-Achyranthes bidentata

Niu Xi, also known as Achyranthes Root, is a widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), known for its ability to invigorate Blood, strengthen the lower body, and guide fire or Blood downward. It is commonly used for menstrual disorders, joint pain, back and knee weakness, and conditions involving downward drainage, such as difficult urination or damp-heat in the lower body.

There are two main types of Niu Xi:

• Huai Niu Xi (Achyranthes bidentata), which has a stronger blood-invigorating and menstruation-regulating function.

• Chuan Niu Xi (Cyathula officinalis), which more strongly tonifies Liver and Kidney, strengthens sinews and bones, and guides downward.

Functions & Benefits

Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
Used for irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and trauma-related blood stasis.

Strengthens Tendons and Bones
Effective for lower back pain, knee soreness, leg weakness, and joint stiffness, particularly in cases of Liver and Kidney deficiency.

Guides Blood and Fire Downward
Clears upward-blazing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or bleeding from the upper body by guiding excess downward.

Promotes Urination and Clears Damp-Heat
Helps with painful or difficult urination, swollen joints, and damp-heat in the lower Jiao.

Indications
People with menstrual irregularities, blood clots, or postpartum pain
Those suffering from chronic lower back or knee weakness, stiffness, or joint pain
Patients with hypertension-related dizziness or bleeding from the upper body
Individuals experiencing urinary discomfort or damp-heat symptoms

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Dark or purple (Blood stasis); greasy yellow coating (damp-heat)
Pulse: Choppy or wiry (Blood stasis); slippery and rapid (damp-heat)

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Niu Xi

• Blood Stasis in the Lower Jiao – Painful menstruation, irregular cycle

• Liver and Kidney Deficiency – Weak knees, aching lower back, joint issues

• Ascending Fire or Yang – Dizziness, headache, nosebleeds, bleeding gums

• Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner – Difficult urination, genital pain, swollen joints

Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable during pregnancy, especially in large doses, due to its downward-moving nature.
Avoid in patients with heavy bleeding or deficiency without stasis.
Use with caution in weak individuals or those prone to dizziness or collapse.

Conclusion
Niu Xi is a blood-invigorating and tendon-strengthening herb essential for treating painful menstruation, joint disorders, and damp-heat in the lower body. Its ability to guide fire and Blood downward makes it particularly valuable in conditions involving upward rebellion of Qi or excess heat above.