Yin Chen Hao - Maagdenwormkruid - Herba Artemisiae Scopariae

Yin Chen Hao (Virgate Wormwood) is een licht koud, bitter kruid in de Traditionele Chinese Geneeskunde (TCM) dat vooral bekend staat om zijn vermogen om vochtige hitte uit de Lever en Galblaas te verwijderen, vooral bij geelzucht. Het is afgeleid van de bovengrondse delen van Artemisia capillaris en heeft een lange geschiedenis als het belangrijkste kruid voor de behandeling van zowel acute als chronische geelzucht. Yin Chen Hao helpt ook bij het bevorderen van het urineren, het verminderen van zwellingen en het reguleren van de spijsvertering bij vochtige hitte. De gerichte werking op de Lever en de Galblaas maakt het essentieel voor het oplossen van vergeling van de huid en ogen, een bittere smaak in de mond en een zwaar gevoel in het lichaam.
Functies en voordelen
Clears Damp-Heat from the Liver and GallbladderResolves 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 SwellingAssists in draining dampness through the urinary system, helping to relieve edema and a heavy sensation in the body.
Regulates Digestion and Relieves Abdominal FullnessImproves appetite, alleviates bloating, and supports healthy digestion in cases of damp-heat stagnation.
Supports Recovery from Hepatic DisordersHelps 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 TCMTongue: Red or slightly pale with a thick, greasy yellow coating, indicating damp-heat.Pulse: Slippery and rapid, reflecting heat and dampness accumulation.
Related TCM PatternsDamp-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 HaoFrequently 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 & ContraindicationsAvoid 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.
ConclusionYin 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.