Purple gromwell (zi cao)

Lithospermum erythrorhizon (en Arnebia euchroma)

Traditionally attributed effects: cools and moves the blood in dark rashes; externally for burns and eczema.

Safety notes

Not for diarrhoea from spleen deficiency. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids: not internally for long periods. 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

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

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that cool the blood'. The purple root cools heat in the blood in measles and rashes and is used externally in ointment. In Japan Shiunko, a purple ointment with zi cao and dong quai, is a classic remedy for burns and dry skin. The root was also used to dye silk purple.

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: sweet, bitter, cold
Meridians: heart, liver, pericardium

Attributed effects

Cools and moves the blood in rashes and ulcers from heat, especially when they are dark in colour, helps measles and chickenpox come out (especially at the start) and softens the stool. Externally as an oil or salve for burns, eczema and vaginal itching.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 3–9 g a day, usually in a decoction. Known as the main ingredient of the Japanese burn ointment shiunko.

Combinations

With chan tui, jing jie and burdock seed for measles
Externally with ku shen and di gu pi as a wash for itchy rashes

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Salve and balm

Sources

All herbs from Asia →