What can be used as a substitute for geranium?
Apr 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, if necessary, Xixiancao (Siegesbeckia pubescens), Shenjicao (Caulis Lycopodii), Tougucao (Herba Siegesbeckiae), Jixueteng (Spatholobus suberectus), and Sangzhi (Ramulus Mori) can be used as substitutes for Geranium under the guidance of a physician. Xixiancao has a pungent and cold property and functions to dispel wind-damp, and promote circulation of the meridians. It can be used to alleviate symptoms such as rheumatic pain and limb numbness, exhibiting effects somewhat similar to those of Geranium.
Generally, if necessary, Xixiancao (Siegesbeckia pubescens), Shenjintao (Herba Lycopodii), Tougucao (Phryma leptostachya L.), Jixueteng (Spatholobus suberectus Dunn), and Sangzhi (Ramulus Mori) can be used as substitutes for Geranium wilfordii Maxim. under the guidance of a physician. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a medical professional in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Xixiancao: Xixiancao has a pungent and cold nature and functions to dispel wind-dampness and promote circulation of meridians. It can be used to relieve symptoms such as rheumatic pain and limb numbness, with effects somewhat similar to those of Geranium wilfordii Maxim.
2. Shenjintao: Shenjintao is particularly effective for relaxing tendons and activating circulation in meridians. It can alleviate joint pain and muscle spasms caused by wind-dampness and also promotes blood circulation. It is commonly used as an alternative to Geranium wilfordii Maxim.
3. Tougucao: Tougucao is effective for dispelling wind-dampness and activating blood circulation to relieve pain. It works well for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic injuries. Its pharmacological characteristics share certain similarities with Geranium wilfordii Maxim.
4. Jixueteng: Jixueteng has the functions of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and relaxing tendons and activating meridians. It is suitable for rheumatic pain and blood stasis symptoms and performs particularly well in improving blood circulation. It can be used as a substitute for Geranium wilfordii Maxim.
5. Sangzhi: Sangzhi has a bitter and neutral nature and enters the liver meridian. It helps dispel wind-dampness and benefits joints. It is effective for limb soreness and joint dysfunction caused by rheumatism and is often used as a replacement for Geranium wilfordii Maxim.
In practical applications, the appropriate substitute should be selected based on specific symptoms and individual constitution, and used in combination following the recommendations of qualified physicians or pharmacists to avoid self-medication.
