Angelica Pubescens Root
Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo): A Warming, Bitter-Pungent Herb for Dispelling Wind-Dampness, Relieving Pain, and Unblocking Channels
Introduction
Angelica Pubescens Root, known as Du Huo (独活) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is the dried root of Angelica pubescens. Warm and pungent-bitter in nature, it is traditionally used to dispel Wind-Dampness, relieve pain, and treat lower-body Bi syndromes.
What Is Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo)?
Du Huo is harvested from mature Angelica plants and dried for medicinal use. It primarily enters the Kidney and Bladder meridians. Its key actions focus on dispelling Wind-Dampness, alleviating pain, and guiding treatment to the lower half of the body.
Health Benefits of Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo)
Dispels Wind-Dampness
Commonly used for Wind-Damp Bi syndromes, especially those affecting the lower back, hips, knees, and legs.
Relieves Pain
Effective for chronic aches, stiffness, and pain aggravated by cold or damp weather.
Targets Lower-Body Conditions
Distinguished from similar herbs by its strong action in the lower extremities rather than the upper body.
Supports Chronic Joint Disorders
Frequently used in long-standing arthritic conditions with underlying Cold and Dampness.
Assists Exterior-Interior Balance
Can address lingering external pathogens that have penetrated deeper into the channels.
How to Use Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo)
As a Herbal Decoction
Typically simmered with other Wind-Damp–dispelling herbs such as Qin Jiao, Fang Feng, or Sang Ji Sheng.
In Classical Formulas
A key ingredient in formulas like Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang for chronic Bi syndromes.
In Short-Term or Long-Term Use
May be used short-term for acute pain or longer-term for chronic conditions under practitioner guidance.
Balanced with Tonics When Needed
Often combined with Blood- and Kidney-tonifying herbs for deficiency-based pain patterns.
Where to Buy Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo)
You can find Du Huo at:
- Traditional Chinese medicine shops
- Asian herbal markets
- Licensed online TCM herb retailers
Look for:
- Thick, firm root pieces
- Aromatic, slightly spicy scent
- Clean slices without mold or excessive brittleness
Are There Any Side Effects?
Angelica Pubescens Root is generally safe when used appropriately. Excessive use may cause dryness or deplete Yin. It should be used cautiously in individuals with Yin deficiency, internal Heat, or headache from deficiency rather than excess Wind-Dampness.
Conclusion
Angelica Pubescens Root (Du Huo) is a warming, pain-relieving TCM herb prized for dispelling Wind-Dampness, easing chronic joint pain, and targeting lower-body Bi syndromes.
FAQs
Is Angelica Pubescens Root toxic?
No, Du Huo is not toxic when properly used and dosed.
Can Angelica Pubescens Root be used daily?
It may be used regularly in chronic formulas under professional guidance, especially for long-standing joint pain.
Is Angelica Pubescens Root warming or cooling?
It is warming, making it suitable for Cold and Damp conditions rather than Heat or deficiency patterns.