Earthworm Powder
Earthworm Powder (Di Long Fen): A Cooling Herb for Heat, Wind, and Circulation Support
Introduction
Earthworm Powder, known as Di Long Fen (地龙粉) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is made from dried and finely powdered earthworms. It is valued for its strong ability to clear heat, calm internal wind, and promote smooth circulation. With its salty, cold nature, Earthworm Powder is commonly used to ease spasms, support respiratory function, and help open the channels for better blood flow.
What Is Earthworm Powder?
Earthworm Powder is prepared by cleaning, drying, and finely grinding earthworms into a medicinal-grade powder. In TCM, it enters the Liver, Spleen, Lung, and Urinary Bladder meridians. Its actions are especially useful for internal heat, spasms, convulsions, and obstructed movement of Qi and blood.
Health Benefits of Earthworm Powder (Di Long Fen)
Clears Heat and Calms Internal Wind
Helps relieve spasms, tremors, convulsions, and symptoms caused by internal wind or heat conditions.
Supports Blood Circulation and Opens Channels
Promotes smooth movement of blood and Qi, assisting with numbness, paralysis, or tightness from stagnation.
Benefits Respiratory Health
Used to help ease wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing caused by heat in the Lung.
Supports Urinary Function
Can help promote urination and reduce heat-related difficulty urinating or swelling.
How to Use Earthworm Powder (Di Long Fen)
In Herbal Preparations
Often mixed into warm water or combined with other herbs in powder form.
In Decoctions
May be added as a powder toward the end of cooking to preserve potency.
In Formulas
Commonly paired with herbs like Jiang Can, Quan Xie, or Gou Teng to calm wind or with Bai Hua She She Cao for heat-clearing purposes.
Where to Buy Earthworm Powder (Di Long Fen)
You can find Earthworm Powder at:
- Traditional Chinese medicine shops
- Online herbal suppliers
- Specialty Asian herbal markets
Look for:
- Fine, clean powder with no impurities
- Mild earthy smell (not rancid)
- Lab-tested or high-quality herbal-grade sources
Are There Any Side Effects?
Earthworm Powder is potent and should be used with guidance. Because of its cold nature, it may cause digestive discomfort in people with weak Spleen or Stomach Qi. It is not recommended for pregnancy unless supervised by a trained practitioner. Avoid high doses, as they may cause dizziness or loose stools.
Conclusion
Earthworm Powder (Di Long Fen) is a powerful TCM herb known for clearing heat, calming internal wind, improving circulation, and supporting respiratory health. Its strong therapeutic actions make it valuable in conditions involving spasms, stagnation, or heat, offering deep support when used appropriately under guidance.
FAQs
Can Earthworm Powder be used daily?
Only under practitioner supervision, due to its strong effects.
Is it good for circulation?
Yes, it helps open channels and promotes smooth flow of blood and Qi.
Does Earthworm Powder help with spasms?
Yes, it is traditionally used to calm internal wind and reduce spasms or tremors.