- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia and southern China
- Traditions
- Chinese medical traditions
Asia · Herb · № 762
Taxillus chinensis (syn. Loranthus parasiticus)
Herb · Asia
Mulberry mistletoe (sang ji sheng)
Taxillus chinensis (syn. Loranthus parasiticus)
Traditionally attributed effects: strengthens liver and kidneys, expels wind and dampness, nourishes the blood and calms the foetus.
Safety notes
According to the book, too large doses are toxic. Discuss blood loss in pregnancy with a midwife at once. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Twigs. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.
Use in traditions
Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'tonics for the yin'. Sang ji sheng grows as a semi-parasite on mulberry trees. It strengthens the back and knees and calms a restless foetus; it is part of Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Chinese materia medica
- Nature and taste
- bitter, neutral
- Meridians
- kidney, liver
Attributed effects
For joint pain, numbness and weakness from wind and dampness, a restless foetus and blood loss in pregnancy, dry eczema and high blood pressure. Thanks to its neutral nature one of the most versatile remedies for a stiff, painful back and knees.
Preparation and amount
Traditional dosage: 9–30 g a day, usually in a decoction. Fried in rice wine it works more strongly against wind and dampness. European mistletoe is sometimes used as a source too.
Combinations
- With du huo and niu xi for a stiff lower back
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionPowder and kitchen