Gan Jiang – Dried Ginger – Rhizoma Zingiberis

Gan Jiang, the dried rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale), is a classic warming herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is prized for its ability to warm the middle burner, revive Yang, and dispel internal cold. Gan Jiang is frequently used in formulas to treat cold-related digestive issues, chronic cough with cold phlegm, and collapse of Yang with cold extremities and weak pulse. Unlike fresh ginger (Sheng Jiang), Gan Jiang has a stronger internal warming effect.
Functions & Benefits
Warms the Middle and Expels ColdUsed for abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting due to Spleen and Stomach cold.
Restores Devastated YangTreats Yang collapse, characterized by cold limbs, profuse sweating, weak pulse, and sudden exhaustion or shock.
Warms the Lungs and Transforms PhlegmEffective for cough with thin, clear or white sputum, especially in chronic cold conditions affecting the Lungs.
Stops Bleeding (Cold-Type)Applied in cases of bleeding from cold in the channels, such as uterine bleeding, hematemesis, or hematuria with cold symptoms.
IndicationsIndividuals with cold abdominal pain, watery diarrhea, or poor appetitePatients experiencing cold hands and feet, low energy, or signs of Yang deficiencyPeople with chronic cough, cold phlegm, or respiratory weaknessThose with cold-type internal bleeding or menstrual irregularities
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCMTongue: Pale with a white, moist coating (indicating internal cold)Pulse: Deep, slow, or weak (suggesting Yang deficiency or cold accumulation)
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Gan JiangSpleen and Stomach Cold Deficiency – Bloating, nausea, diarrhea, cold sensationYang Collapse – Profound weakness, cold limbs, faint pulseCold Phlegm in the Lungs – Chronic cough, clear sputum, chest congestionCold in the Blood – Bleeding with cold symptoms, uterine or internal bleeding
Precautions & ContraindicationsNot suitable for individuals with Yin deficiency and internal heatAvoid in cases of bleeding due to heat in the bloodUse cautiously during pregnancy, especially in higher doses
ConclusionGan Jiang is a potent warming herb in TCM, ideal for restoring Yang, warming the digestive system, and transforming cold-related phlegm. Its strong internal heat makes it essential for treating cold syndromes affecting the middle Jiao, Lungs, and circulation, especially in chronic or collapsed conditions.