Centipeda Herb
Centipeda Herb (E Bu Shi Cao): A Warming Herb for Nasal Congestion, Cough, and Damp-Phlegm
Introduction
Centipeda herb, known as E Bu Shi Cao (鹅不食草) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a warm, pungent, and toxic herb valued for dispersing wind-cold, resolving phlegm, and opening the nasal passages. It is commonly used for chronic or acute nasal congestion, sinusitis, and cough with phlegm. Its strong and penetrating nature makes it useful for stubborn respiratory blockages and damp-phlegm accumulation.
What Is Centipeda Herb?
E Bu Shi Cao comes from the whole plant Centipeda minima, a small annual herb. In TCM, it is classified as warm, acrid, and slightly toxic, entering the Lung and Spleen meridians. Its warming and dispersing qualities allow it to clear obstruction in the nose and sinuses, as well as transform phlegm.
Health Benefits of Centipeda Herb
Opens nasal passages – Effective for rhinitis, sinusitis, and nasal obstruction.
Transforms phlegm and stops cough – Helps with cough, asthma, and chronic bronchitis caused by damp-phlegm.
Disperses wind-cold – Used for headache, nasal discharge, and common cold with sinus blockage.
Relieves itching and skin issues – Sometimes applied externally for eczema, fungal infections, or itchy rashes.
How to Use Centipeda Herb
As a decoction – Often simmered for nasal and respiratory complaints, though usually combined with other herbs due to its toxicity.
As a powder or snuff – Traditionally ground into powder and inhaled to open blocked nasal passages.
External application – Made into ointments or washes for skin conditions.
Where to Buy Centipeda Herb
Available in TCM apothecaries – Usually sold as dried aerial parts of the herb.
Asian herbal markets – Sometimes found in prepared powders or nasal remedies.
Look for: clean, dried whole plants with a sharp, slightly pungent aroma.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Due to its slightly toxic nature, Centipeda herb must be used in appropriate doses. Overuse may cause nausea, vomiting, or irritation. It should not be used during pregnancy or in cases of yin deficiency with heat. Always use under professional guidance.
Conclusion
Centipeda herb (E Bu Shi Cao) is a pungent, warming TCM herb that opens the nasal passages, disperses wind-cold, transforms phlegm, and relieves respiratory congestion. Despite its toxicity, when used carefully in proper formulas, it provides strong relief for nasal and phlegm-related conditions.
FAQ
Can Centipeda herb help with sinus issues? – Yes, it is one of the primary herbs for nasal obstruction and sinusitis.
Is it safe for long-term use? – No, due to its toxicity it should be used short-term and in prescribed amounts.
Can it be used on the skin? – Yes, externally it may help with itching and fungal infections, but should not be applied to open wounds.