Cang Zhu-Cang-zhu Atractylodes Rhizome-Rhizoma Atractylodis Lanceae

Cang Zhu, known as Atractylodes lancea, is a powerful dampness-drying and spleen-strengthening herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is commonly used to resolve dampness, improve digestion, boost immunity, dispel wind-damp from the joints, and enhance vision. Cang Zhu is especially beneficial for individuals experiencing poor appetite, bloating, diarrhea, joint pain, and damp-related conditions.

Functions & Benefits

Dries Dampness and Strengthens the Spleen
Used for poor digestion, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and lack of appetite caused by damp accumulation in the digestive system.

Expels Wind-Damp and Relieves Pain
Effective for joint pain, swelling, and heaviness in the limbs caused by dampness obstructing the meridians.

Clears Dampness and Supports Immunity
Known for its ability to dispel external dampness, making it useful for boosting immune function and protecting against colds and flu.

Improves Vision and Clears Dampness from the Eyes
Helps treat blurred vision, night blindness, and eye discomfort caused by damp obstruction.

Indications
Individuals with digestive issues like bloating, nausea, and loose stools
People experiencing joint pain, swelling, or damp-related body heaviness
Patients with blurred vision or eye discomfort due to dampness accumulation
Those with low immunity or susceptibility to colds and damp-related illnesses

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Thick greasy white or yellow coating (indicating damp accumulation)
Pulse: Slippery and slow (suggesting damp retention)

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Cang Zhu
Dampness Obstructing the Middle Jiao – Poor digestion, bloating, nausea
Wind-Damp Bi Syndrome – Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Damp Obstruction in the Eyes – Blurred vision, heaviness in the eyes

Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for individuals with severe Yin deficiency or heat conditions.
Use with caution in cases of excessive dryness or fluid depletion.
Avoid long-term use in individuals with weak constitution and excessive internal dryness.

Conclusion
Cang Zhu is a potent dampness-resolving and spleen-strengthening herb, widely used for digestive health, joint pain relief, immunity enhancement, and vision improvement. Its ability to dry dampness, support digestion, and expel wind-damp makes it an essential remedy for conditions related to excess dampness and stagnation in the body.