Sappan wood (su mu)

Biancaea sappan (syn. Caesalpinia sappan)

Traditionally attributed effects: lets the blood flow in menstrual pain and injury.

Safety notes

Not during pregnancy. 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

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

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that move the blood'. According to Chinese medicine the red heartwood (su mu) moves the blood in bruises and pain. In Indonesia wedang secang, hot water with sappanwood and ginger, is a popular jamu drink. In Europe the wood was a source of red dye before Brazilian brazilwood replaced it.

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, salty, slightly pungent, neutral
Meridians: heart, liver, spleen

Attributed effects

For absent or painful menstruation and pain after childbirth from blood stagnation, and swelling and pain from injury (externally as a paste with frankincense, myrrh and dragon's blood).

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 3–10 g a day, usually in a decoction.

Combinations

With dang gui, chuanxiong, red peony and safflower

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →