Can Chuanxiong treat low back pain?

Sep 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

In general, whether Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) can be used to treat low back pain needs to be determined based on the specific condition of the individual. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. When using Chuanxiong to manage low back pain, a TCM syndrome differentiation by a qualified TCM physician is necessary; self-administration or combination with other herbs without professional guidance is not advised. If symptoms such as worsening back discomfort, dry mouth, or excessive internal heat occur after taking the herb, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice. During episodes of low back pain, rest is important and excessive strain on the lower back should be avoided.

Generally speaking, whether Chuanxiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong) can be used to treat low back pain depends on the specific condition of the patient. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If low back pain is caused by blood stasis or invasion of wind pathogen, such as poor circulation of qi and blood in the lower back due to prolonged sitting, residual blood stasis from trauma, or lumbago caused by external contraction of wind pathogen, Chuanxiong may be used under the guidance of a TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) practitioner. Chuanxiong has functions of promoting blood circulation, regulating qi, dispelling wind, and relieving pain, which can improve circulation of qi and blood in the lower back, dissipate blood stasis, eliminate wind pathogen, thereby alleviating low back pain caused by these factors and helping to restore comfort in the lumbar region.

If low back pain is caused by kidney deficiency, severe lumbar muscle strain, or organic lesions of the lumbar spine, using Chuanxiong alone may have limited effectiveness. In such cases, treatment should target the underlying cause: kidney deficiency requires kidney nourishment, muscle strain requires tissue repair, and organic lesions require professional intervention. Chuanxiong cannot fundamentally address these issues, and inappropriate use might delay proper treatment.

When using Chuanxiong to manage low back pain, diagnosis and treatment should be conducted under the guidance of a TCM practitioner; self-administration or combining it with other herbs without medical advice is not recommended. If symptoms such as worsening low back discomfort, dry mouth, or heatiness occur after taking the herb, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention. During episodes of low back pain, rest is important, and excessive strain on the lower back should be avoided. If pain persists or is accompanied by numbness or restricted movement in the lower limbs, timely medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment according to medical guidance.

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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.