Bai Bu-Stemona Root Tuber-Radix Stemonae

Bai Bu (Radix Stemonae), also known as Stemona Root, is a well-known lung-moistening and cough-relieving herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is commonly used to stop chronic coughs, expel parasites, and treat skin conditions. Bai Bu is especially effective for dry or persistent coughs due to Lung Yin Deficiency or Lung Heatand is often included in herbal formulas for respiratory and dermatological conditions.

Functions & Benefits of Bai Bu

1. Moistens the Lungs & Stops Cough

• Used for chronic, dry, or persistent coughs due to Lung Yin Deficiency.
• Helps with whooping cough, tuberculosis-related cough, and respiratory infections.
• Can be combined with Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillaria) for chronic dry cough relief.

2. Kills Parasites & Treats Skin Conditions

• Topical use for lice, scabies, and fungal infections.
• Can be used as a wash or ointment to relieve itching and skin irritation.
• Often combined with Kushen (Sophora Root) for external application.

3. Clears Lung Heat & Phlegm

• Helps with yellow phlegm, heat-related coughs, and bronchitis.
• Reduces inflammation in the throat and lungs, making it useful for smokers or individuals with chronic lung conditions.

Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)

✔ People with chronic or dry coughs, including tuberculosis-related cough.
✔ Individuals with skin conditions like scabies, lice, or fungal infections.
✔ Those experiencing heat-related coughs with yellow phlegm.
✔ People recovering from lung infections or long-term respiratory issues.

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM

• Tongue: Dry or red with little coating (Lung Yin Deficiency) or yellow coating (Lung Heat).
• Pulse: Thin and rapid (Lung Yin Deficiency) or slippery and rapid (Lung Heat with phlegm).

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Bai Bu

1. Lung Yin Deficiency – Chronic dry cough, throat dryness, hoarseness.
2. Lung Heat with Phlegm – Yellow phlegm, sore throat, bronchitis.
3. Parasite or Fungal Infections – Scabies, lice, itching, skin irritation.

Common Herbal Formulas

Weinsch Strong Lungs

Precautions & Contraindications

• Not suitable for individuals with weak digestion (excess use may cause nausea).
• Avoid during pregnancy unless prescribed by a TCM practitioner.
• Use caution for people with Spleen Qi Deficiency (prone to loose stools).

Conclusion

Bai Bu (Stemona Root) is an effective TCM herb for stopping chronic coughs, treating skin parasites, and clearing lung heat. It is widely used in respiratory and dermatological treatments, making it a versatile remedy for lung and skin health.