3Yin Chen Hao – Virgate Wormwood – Herba Artemisiae Scopariae

Yin Chen Hao (Virgate Wormwood) is a slightly cold, bitter herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) best known for its ability to clear damp-heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, particularly in cases of jaundice. It is derived from the aerial parts of Artemisia capillaris and has a long history as the primary herb for treating both acute and chronic jaundice. Yin Chen Hao also helps promote urination, reduce swelling, and regulate digestion in damp-heat conditions. Its targeted action on the Liver and Gallbladder makes it essential for resolving yellowing of the skin and eyes, bitter taste in the mouth, and a feeling of heaviness in the body.

Functions & Benefits

Clears Damp-Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder
Resolves jaundice caused by damp-heat accumulation, whether acute with bright yellow skin and eyes, or chronic with a more subtle yellow hue.

Promotes Urination and Reduces Swelling
Assists in draining dampness through the urinary system, helping to relieve edema and a heavy sensation in the body.

Regulates Digestion and Relieves Abdominal Fullness
Improves appetite, alleviates bloating, and supports healthy digestion in cases of damp-heat stagnation.

Supports Recovery from Hepatic Disorders
Helps protect liver function and may be used in formulas for hepatitis and gallbladder inflammation.

Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)
✔ Individuals with jaundice caused by damp-heat in the Liver and Gallbladder.
✔ People experiencing bloating, poor appetite, and heaviness from damp-heat.
✔ Those with edema or urinary difficulty linked to damp accumulation.
✔ Patients recovering from hepatitis or gallbladder inflammation (as part of a formula).

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Red or slightly pale with a thick, greasy yellow coating, indicating damp-heat.
Pulse: Slippery and rapid, reflecting heat and dampness accumulation.

Related TCM Patterns
Damp-Heat in the Liver and Gallbladder – Causes jaundice, bitter taste, heaviness, and digestive discomfort.
Damp-Heat Obstructing the Middle Burner – Leads to bloating, nausea, and reduced appetite.
Edema from Damp-Heat – Results in swelling and urinary difficulty.

Clinical Applications (For Reference Only)
Acute or Chronic Jaundice – Clears damp-heat and promotes bile flow.
Hepatitis and Gallbladder Inflammation – Used in supportive formulas to reduce heat and support recovery.
Edema with Damp-Heat – Promotes urination and relieves swelling.
Digestive Sluggishness – Improves appetite and reduces abdominal fullness.

Common Herbal Formulas with Yin Chen Hao
Frequently combined with Zhi Zi and Da Huang in the classic Yin Chen Hao Tang for damp-heat jaundice, or with Jin Qian Cao for gallstones and urinary conditions.

Precautions & Contraindications
Avoid in cases of jaundice due to cold-dampness without heat signs.
Not suitable for long-term use in those with Yin deficiency.
Use with caution in pregnancy and under professional supervision.

Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations
✔ Eat light, cooling foods such as cucumber, mung beans, and watermelon to assist heat clearing.
✔ Avoid greasy, fried, and overly rich foods that aggravate damp-heat.
✔ Stay hydrated to support dampness elimination.
✔ Include gentle physical activity to promote Qi and fluid movement.

Conclusion
Yin Chen Hao (Virgate Wormwood) is the primary TCM herb for treating damp-heat jaundice, valued for its ability to clear heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, promote urination, and support digestive health. It is an essential component in many formulas for liver and gallbladder disorders linked to damp-heat.