Xiao Hui Xiang-Venkelvrucht-Foeniculum vulgare

Xiao Hui Xiang (Fennel Fruit) is a warm, acrid herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), traditionally used to warm the Liver and Kidneys, dispel cold, regulate Qi, and alleviate pain. It is the dried ripe fruit of Foeniculum vulgare (venkel) and is particularly effective in treating cold-related digestive and reproductive issues such as abdominal pain, hernia, menstrual cramps, and poor appetite due to Spleen Yang deficiency.

It is gentle yet effective, making it a common ingredient in formulas for cold-type pain and Qi stagnation in the lower abdomen.

Functies en voordelen

Warms the Liver and Kidneys and Dispels Cold
• Treats cold in the lower abdomen, hernia pain, testicular swelling, and lower back weakness
• Relieves pain from cold obstructing the Liver meridian
• Used in infertility or menstrual irregularities due to cold in the uterus

Regulates Qi and Alleviates Pain
• Harmonizes the Stomach and relieves epigastric or abdominal discomfort
• Moves Qi in cases of bloating, nausea, and indigestion due to cold
• Particularly helpful in morning sickness when due to cold and Qi stagnation

Warms the Middle and Strengthens the Spleen
• Used in poor digestion with abdominal pain, vomiting, and cold sensations
• Mildly tonifies digestive function by warming the Yang
• Assists in treating cold diarrhea or chronic bloating

Indicaties (wie kan er baat bij hebben?)
✔ Individuals with abdominal or lower abdominal pain worsened by cold
✔ People with cold-type hernia, testicular pain, or inguinal discomfort
✔ Women with menstrual pain or irregular cycles due to uterine cold
✔ Patients with poor digestion, cold limbs, or nausea from cold
✔ Those with mild Qi stagnation in the digestive or reproductive systems

Diagnose van tong en pols in TCM
Tongue: Pale with white coating (cold and Yang deficiency)
Pulse: Deep, slow, or wiry (cold or constrained Liver Qi)

Verwante TCM-patronen
Cold in the Liver Channel – Hernia, testicular pain, menstrual cramps
Cold in the Uterus – Delayed menstruation, infertility, abdominal pain
Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency – Bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
Qi Stagnation with Cold – Abdominal distention and pain relieved by warmth

Klinische toepassingen (alleen ter referentie)
Cold-Type Hernia or Inguinal Pain – Warms Liver channel and moves Qi
Menstrual Pain – Relieves cramps and improves circulation in cold-type patterns
Nausea and Poor Appetite – Warms the middle and promotes digestion
Lower Back or Lower Abdominal Pain – Eases tension from cold or Qi stagnation
Pediatric Colic – Gently warms and calms the digestive system

Common Herbal Formulas with Xiao Hui Xiang
• Tian Tai Wu Yao San – For hernia pain and testicular discomfort
• Wen Jing Tang (modified) – For cold-related menstrual disorders
• Li Zhong Wan (modified) – For Spleen Yang deficiency with vomiting and cold
• Xiao Hui Xiang Tang – A classic warming decoction for abdominal pain due to cold
• Shen Qi Wan – For Kidney Yang deficiency with cold limbs and urinary issues

Voorzorgsmaatregelen en contra-indicaties
Not suitable for heat conditions or Yin deficiency with heat signs
Avoid in individuals with signs of internal heat, constipation, or red tongue
Should not be used in excessive doses over long periods due to warming nature
Use with caution during pregnancy, especially in high doses

Aanbevelingen voor levensstijl en dieet
✔ Use warming spices like fennel, ginger, and cinnamon in cooking
✔ Avoid raw, cold, or greasy foods that weaken the Spleen and promote cold
✔ Keep the lower abdomen and back warm, especially during winter or menstruation
✔ Gentle abdominal massage or moxa can support warming and circulation

Conclusie
Xiao Hui Xiang (Fennel Fruit) is a warm, harmonizing herb that dispels cold, regulates Qi, and relieves pain. It is highly effective in treating cold-related abdominal and reproductive issues, from menstrual cramps to hernia pain and digestive weakness. Its gentle warmth and Qi-moving action make it a trusted herb in formulas for both men and women with internal cold patterns.