Mint, commonly known as “Yin Dan Cao,” is the dried whole herb of Mentha haplocalyx Briq., a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is cultivated across China, with the highest quality found in Jiangsu province. The harvest period varies by region, and generally, it can be collected 2-3 times a year. It can be used fresh or dried in the shade, then cut into segments for medicinal use.
Properties
- Taste & Nature: Pungent, cool.
- Meridian Tropism: Lung, Liver.
Functions
Dispels wind-heat, clears and benefits the throat, promotes eruption and detoxification, soothes the liver, and relieves depression.
Clinical Applications
- Used for exterior wind-heat invasion and early-stage febrile diseases with symptoms such as fever, mild aversion to cold, and headache.
- Used for wind-heat attacking the upper body, causing headache, red eyes, and sore throat.
- Used to promote eruption in cases of measles with incomplete eruption or wind rash with itching.
- Used for liver qi stagnation, manifesting as chest tightness and hypochondriac pain.
Usage & Dosage
Decoction: 3-6g. Should not be decocted for a long time; it is usually added later in the decoction process. The leaves are more effective for inducing sweating, while the stems are better for regulating qi.
Precautions
Not suitable for individuals with qi deficiency and excessive sweating. Use with caution in cases of yin deficiency and blood dryness.