What are the functions and benefits of combining Heishunpian (Black顺片) with Chinese yam (Shanyao)?
The combined effects of processed aconite root (Hei Shun Pian) and Chinese yam (Shan Yao) generally include warming and tonifying the spleen and kidneys, dispersing cold to relieve pain, alleviating yang deficiency edema, improving indigestion, and regulating qi and blood. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Warm and Tonify the Spleen and Kidneys: The warming and cold-dispersing effects of Hei Shun Pian, combined with the spleen-strengthening and kidney-benefiting properties of Chinese yam, can improve symptoms caused by spleen and kidney yang deficiency, such as cold intolerance, cold limbs, sore waist and knees, and diarrhea at dawn.
2. Disperse Cold and Relieve Pain: The pungent-warm and channel-opening properties of Hei Shun Pian, together with the spasm-relieving effect of Chinese yam, can alleviate joint cold pain, epigastric and abdominal cold pain, and numb limbs caused by obstruction from cold and dampness.
3. Alleviate Yang Deficiency Edema: The combination of these two herbs enhances the effect of warming yang to promote diuresis, treating edema due to spleen and kidney yang deficiency, difficult urination, limb swelling, and promoting fluid metabolism.
4. Improve Indigestion: The spleen- and stomach-strengthening effect of Chinese yam combined with the warming and cold-dispersing action of Hei Shun Pian on the middle jiao can relieve poor appetite, abdominal distension and diarrhea, belching, and acid regurgitation caused by cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach.
5. Regulate Qi and Blood: The yang-supporting and anchoring action of Hei Shun Pian, together with the essence and qi-nourishing effect of Chinese yam, can improve symptoms caused by deficiency of both qi and blood, such as fatigue, pallor, dizziness, blurred vision, and light menstrual flow.
Before using Hei Shun Pian combined with Chinese yam, it is best to consult a TCM practitioner or healthcare professional to determine whether it is suitable for your individual constitution and specific condition, and how to appropriately combine it with other herbs.