2Sheng Jiang-Ginger fresh rhizome-Zingiber officinale

Sheng Jiang, the fresh rhizome of ginger, is a widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its warming, dispersing, and harmonizing properties. It is most often used to release the exterior in early-stage colds, warm the middle burner, stop nausea, transform phlegm, and detoxify other herbs or food. Mild and versatile, Sheng Jiang is commonly found in both medicinal formulas and dietary therapy for its protective and regulatory effects on the digestive and respiratory systems.

Functions & Benefits

Releases the Exterior and Disperses Cold
Used for early-stage Wind-Cold invasion, especially with chills, mild fever, nasal congestion, and absence of sweating.

Warms the Middle Burner and Alleviates Vomiting
Effective for nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, and abdominal discomfort due to cold in the Stomach.

Warms the Lungs and Stops Cough
Helps resolve phlegm and coughs caused by Wind-Cold affecting the Lungs.

Reduces Toxicity of Herbs and Food
Often added to formulas to neutralize toxicity, especially in cases involving Ban Xia, seafood, or other strong-acting substances.

Indications
Individuals with early colds, chills, or Wind-Cold symptoms
People experiencing nausea or vomiting due to cold in the Stomach
Patients with cough, clear phlegm, or respiratory discomfort in cold weather
Those needing digestive protection or detoxification support in herbal formulas

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale or normal with thin white coating (cold or Wind-Cold)
Pulse: Floating or moderate (suggesting early Wind-Cold or middle burner cold)

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Sheng Jiang

• Wind-Cold Invasion – Chills, nasal congestion, headache

• Cold in the Stomach – Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite

• Phlegm-Cold in the Lungs – Cough with clear sputum

• Herbal Toxicity or Food Poisoning – Used to reduce adverse effects

Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for Yin deficiency with heat signs (e.g., night sweats, dry mouth)
Avoid in individuals with true heat patterns or excessive internal heat
Use with caution in heavy bleeding disorders or in very hot climates

Conclusion
Sheng Jiang is a warming, dispersing, and harmonizing herb widely used in TCM for cold-related disorders, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions. Its ability to release the exterior, settle the Stomach, and resolve phlegmmakes it an essential ingredient in both acute care formulas and everyday dietary use.