Oriental sweetgum (su he xiang)

Liquidambar orientalis

Traditionally attributed effects: the resin opens the sense orifices and relieves pain with a tight chest.

Safety notes

The book describes this remedy for unconsciousness, coma and stroke; these are always medical emergencies (112). Always have chest pain assessed medically 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

Resin. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'aromatic substances that open the sense orifices'. The fragrant balsam storax (su he xiang) is obtained from the bark and used in Chinese medicine for sudden loss of consciousness and chest pain. The tree comes from south-western Turkey; the balsam was already traded in antiquity.

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: pungent, sweet, warm
Meridians: heart, stomach

Attributed effects

The book describes use for sudden coma or stroke from qi stagnation and for a tight, oppressed feeling in the chest, together with borneol, sandalwood and clove.

Preparation and amount

Deliberately no dosage is given here: only under the supervision of a qualified therapist.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction
Formulas: Guan xin su he wan

Sources

All herbs from Asia →