Can Chuanxiong be steeped in water for consumption?

Sep 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Chuanxiong (Ligusticum wallichii) can be consumed as an infusion, but it should be taken in moderation. When drinking Chuanxiong water, it is important to control the dosage—typically 3–5 grams per use is sufficient. Excessive consumption may cause discomfort such as dry mouth and heatiness. Individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, as well as pregnant women, are strictly prohibited from consuming it; the former may experience increased internal heat, while the latter may be affected due to its blood-activating properties, potentially impacting fetal stability.

Generally speaking, Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) can be consumed as an infusion, but it should be taken in moderation. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Chuanxiong contains active components related to promoting blood circulation, regulating qi, relieving wind-related pain, which can slowly dissolve into warm water when steeped. In daily life, if you experience mild headaches, neck stiffness, or qi and blood stagnation and mild limb stiffness caused by prolonged sitting, drinking an appropriate amount of Chuanxiong tea may help alleviate discomfort and provide certain regulatory benefits by promoting local blood and qi circulation. Additionally, this infusion method is simple and convenient, making it suitable for mild daily regulation needs.

When consuming Chuanxiong tea, it is important to control the dosage—usually 3–5 grams per serving is sufficient. Excessive consumption might cause dry mouth or other discomforts such as "excessive internal heat" (fire syndrome). Individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat or pregnant women must not consume it; the former may experience increased internal heat while the latter could face potential risks to fetal stability due to Chuanxiong's blood-activating effects. If symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or worsening of existing discomfort occur after consumption, usage should be stopped immediately. Individuals with underlying medical conditions or those planning long-term consumption should consult a TCM practitioner beforehand to avoid blind usage.

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What are the functions and benefits of Chuanxiong wine?

In general, Chuanxiong wine is a beverage primarily made by steeping Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong), and its functions and effects mainly include promoting blood circulation and regulating qi, dispelling wind to relieve pain, improving circulation, alleviating headaches, and regulating menstruation. When using Chuanxiong wine, it is important to drink in moderation and avoid excessive consumption; special populations such as pregnant women, lactating women, and individuals allergic to alcohol should avoid its use.

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What are the functions, effects, and contraindications of Chuanxiong?

The functions and effects of Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) generally include promoting blood circulation and Qi movement, dispelling wind to relieve pain, improving circulation, regulating menstruation and alleviating pain, and relieving headaches. It has a pungent and warm nature, and is particularly effective in promoting blood and Qi circulation, thus treating symptoms such as chest and rib distension pain, and epigastric stabbing pain caused by Qi and blood stagnation. Contraindications generally include avoiding use in pregnant women, caution in patients with excessive menstrual bleeding, individuals with Yin deficiency and internal heat, those with bleeding tendencies, and situations where excessive dosage should be avoided.

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Are Chuanxiong and Chuan Xiong the same?

Chuanxiong is the dried rhizome of the plant Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort., belonging to the family Umbelliferae. It is mainly produced in Sichuan Province and named after its place of origin. Chuanxiong is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb. The character "穹" in the term "川穹" is a misspelling. In fact, there is no independent herb named "川穹." In herbal markets, pharmacopoeias, and clinical applications, "川芎" is the standardized name, and both terms refer to exactly the same substance.

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What are the functions and effects of Chuanxiong Granules?

Chuanxiong Granules usually refer to Dachuanxiong Granules. As a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine preparation, Dachuanxiong Granules have effects and functions including promoting blood circulation and regulating qi, expelling wind to relieve pain, alleviating headaches, improving dizziness, and dredging meridians and collaterals. When using Dachuanxiong Granules, it is necessary to clearly identify the applicable conditions, follow the recommended dosage on the package insert or take as directed by a physician. Special populations such as pregnant women and lactating women should use with caution.