Ru Xiang, also known as Olibanum or Frankincense, is a pungent, bitter, and warm herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to invigorate blood, move Qi, relax sinews, and alleviate pain. It is particularly effective in treating trauma, swelling, joint stiffness, and pain caused by Qi and Blood Stagnation. Ru Xiang is commonly used in both internal formulas and external applications, often in combination with Mo Yao for synergistic action in pain relief and tissue repair.
Functions & Benefits
Invigorates Blood & Promotes Qi Movement
Ru Xiang is used to activate circulation in both the Qi and blood levels. It treats pain and swelling resulting from traumatic injury, blood stasis, or Qi stagnation. It is suitable for fixed, sharp, or chronic pain in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues.
Relaxes Sinews & Alleviates Pain
This herb is frequently used for bi syndrome with joint stiffness, limited range of motion, or rheumatic discomfort. It helps relax the sinews and unblock the channels, relieving pain in conditions such as arthritis and tendon injuries.
Reduces Swelling & Promotes Healing
Ru Xiang is applied internally and externally for swelling from abscesses, sprains, or bruises. It helps regenerate tissue and speed recovery from injury or chronic inflammation, especially when swelling is accompanied by hardness or congealed stasis.
Promotes Healing of Sores & Wounds
When used topically, Ru Xiang helps close chronic, non-healing sores or ulcers. It supports tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation while protecting damaged skin from further stagnation.
Indications
Fixed or sharp pain due to Qi and Blood Stagnation
Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling from bi syndrome or traumatic injury
Soft tissue damage or bruising with inflammation
Post-traumatic pain and swelling with restricted movement
Chronic non-healing ulcers or sores (topical use)
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Dark or purple with possible stasis spots, normal or thin coating
Pulse: Choppy or wiry, possibly tight or full in cases of obstruction and stasis
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Ru Xiang
Ru Xiang treats Qi and Blood Stagnation, Wind-Damp Bi Syndrome, and Painful Obstruction in the channels. These patterns typically include fixed pain, swelling, joint stiffness, or limited range of motion due to trauma or stasis.
Precautions & Contraindications
Contraindicated during pregnancy due to its strong blood-invigorating effect
Avoid in cases of heavy menstruation or bleeding disorders
Use with caution in Yin Deficiency or heat conditions without stasis
Not recommended for long-term use in deficient patients without stagnation
Conclusion
Ru Xiang is a powerful herb for activating Qi and blood, reducing pain, and promoting healing. It is especially effective in musculoskeletal conditions, traumatic injury, and joint stiffness. When combined with Mo Yao, it becomes a key component in treating chronic pain, swelling, and tissue repair both internally and topically.
