Pueraria refers to the dried roots of Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi or Pueraria thomsonii Benth., both of which are perennial climbing plants in the Fabaceae family. It is produced throughout China. Harvested in autumn and winter, it is sliced and sun-dried. It can be used raw or roasted.
Properties & Meridians
Taste: Sweet, pungent
Nature: Cool
Meridians: Spleen, Stomach
Functions
- Relaxes muscles and reduces fever
- Promotes measles eruption
- Generates fluids and quenches thirst
- Raises Yang Qi and stops diarrhea
Clinical Applications
- Used for external fever, headache, and neck stiffness.
- Treats incomplete eruption of measles.
- Used for heat-induced diarrhea and dysentery, as well as chronic diarrhea due to Spleen deficiency.
- Treats excessive thirst caused by febrile diseases and internal heat.
Usage & Dosage
Decoction: 10–15g
- Used raw for reducing fever and generating fluids.
- Roasted for raising Yang Qi and stopping diarrhea.
- Fresh Pueraria root is preferred for promoting fluid production.
Precautions
Use with caution in cases of cold deficiency in the Spleen and Stomach.