What are the functions and benefits of Codonopsis?
Dec 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Codonopsis root is the dried root of the umbelliferous plant Glehnia littoralis, and typically has functions and effects including moistening the lungs to relieve cough, nourishing the stomach to promote saliva production, enriching yin to supplement blood, clearing heat to resolve phlegm, and calming the mind to relieve restlessness. Codonopsis root can nourish the lungs and alleviate coughing. When coughing, dry cough without phlegm or scanty and sticky phlegm is caused by lung dryness or lung heat, this herb can moisten the lungs, clear heat, restore the lung's functions of dispersion and descent, and thereby relieve coughing symptoms.
Dangshen (Glehnia root) is the dried root of the Apiaceae plant Glehnia littoralis, commonly known for its functions and effects including moistening the lungs and relieving cough, nourishing the stomach and promoting body fluid production, enriching yin and blood, clearing heat and resolving phlegm, as well as calming the mind and stabilizing the will. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Moistening the Lungs and Relieving Cough: Dangshen can nourish the lungs and alleviate coughing. When coughing is caused by lung dryness or lung heat, such as dry cough with little or no phlegm, or scanty and sticky phlegm, it can moisten the lungs, clear internal heat, restore normal lung function of dispersing and descending, reduce cough symptoms, and make breathing smoother.
2. Nourishing the Stomach and Promoting Body Fluid Production: Dangshen can improve conditions such as mild stomach pain, loss of appetite despite hunger, dry mouth and throat. It can promote gastric juice secretion, enhance digestive function, nourish the gastric mucosa, and improve the overall efficiency of the digestive system.
3. Enriching Yin and Supplementing Blood: Dangshen can nourish yin fluids and replenish blood. It is suitable for individuals with deficiency of yin and blood, such as those experiencing symptoms like pale complexion, dizziness, palpitations, and insomnia. It can supply yin and blood to the body, alleviate symptoms of blood and yin deficiency, restore vitality, and improve complexion.
4. Clearing Heat and Resolving Phlegm: When internal heat phlegm causes excessive coughing with thick yellow phlegm, Dangshen can clear internal heat and resolve phlegm. It helps eliminate pathogenic heat from the body, thin the phlegm, making it easier to expel, reduce the feeling of respiratory blockage, and relieve discomfort caused by phlegm accumulation.
5. Calming the Mind and Stabilizing the Will: Dangshen has a calming effect on the mind. In cases of irritability and insomnia, or palpitations with restlessness, it can nourish the heart blood, provide support for the mind, help relax the mind, relieve anxiety, improve sleep quality, and bring mental tranquility.
Caution should be exercised during use; pregnant women, individuals with cold-deficiency constitution, and those suffering from diarrhea should use it cautiously. It is best to consult a professional physician before use to avoid causing discomfort.
