Chuan Xin Lian, also known as Andrographis paniculata or Green Chiretta, is a strongly bitter and cold herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to clear heat, detoxify the body, and reduce inflammation. Known for its powerful antimicrobial and antiviral properties, it is especially effective in treating acute infections, sore throat, respiratory tract inflammation, and intestinal disorders. It is a commonly used herb in modern TCM clinical practice for both internal and external heat toxin conditions.
Functions & Benefits
Clears Heat & Resolves Fire Toxins
Chuan Xin Lian is used to treat febrile diseases, particularly those with high fever, sore throat, and swollen tonsils. It is indicated for early-stage infections such as influenza, pneumonia, and upper respiratory tract infections caused by external wind-heat and internal heat.
Dries Dampness & Reduces Inflammation
Effective for damp-heat dysentery, urinary tract infections, and intestinal inflammation. It is commonly used for diarrhea with mucus or blood, painful urination, and abdominal discomfort due to damp-heat in the intestines or lower burner.
Cools the Blood & Benefits the Throat
Often used for sore throat, swollen glands, or red, inflamed tonsils, especially when caused by heat toxins. Its bitterness allows it to penetrate deeply to reduce swelling and clear toxic accumulation.
Supports Immune Function & Infection Defense
Modern studies support its use as an immune-modulating herb with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory actions. It is widely used in TCM as a supportive treatment for colds, flu, bronchitis, and gastrointestinal infections.
Indications
Fever, sore throat, or tonsillitis due to external wind-heat or heat toxins.
Acute bronchitis, pneumonia, or upper respiratory tract infections.
Damp-heat diarrhea or dysentery with tenesmus and foul-smelling stools.
Painful urination, urinary tract infections, or genital inflammation.
Skin sores, carbuncles, or abscesses with redness and heat signs.
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Red with yellow or greasy yellow coating, indicating heat or damp-heat accumulation.
Pulse: Rapid, slippery, or wiry, suggesting internal heat and toxic inflammation.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Chuan Xin Lian
Chuan Xin Lian treats heat toxin in the lung, throat, intestines, and urinary system. It is used in conditions marked by high fever, purulent discharge, painful urination, or damp-heat diarrhea. It is especially useful when inflammation is acute and associated with signs of infection or suppuration.
Precautions & Contraindications
Avoid in cases of cold from deficiency, especially with a weak spleen and stomach.
Prolonged use may impair digestion or damage Yang Qi due to its cold and bitter nature.
Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Not suitable for patients with loose stools from Spleen Qi Deficiency.
Conclusion
Chuan Xin Lian is a potent heat-clearing and detoxifying herb used in TCM for acute respiratory, digestive, and urinary infections. Its strong bitter and cold properties make it ideal for inflammatory and infectious diseases characterized by heat toxin and damp-heat. It is a key herb in both classical and modern TCM infection control strategies.
