Asarum Chinese Herb

Asarum (Xi Xin): A Warming Herb for Cold Dispersion, Pain Relief, and Lung Support

Introduction

Asarum, known as Xi Xin (细辛) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a potent warming herb used to dispel wind-cold, open nasal passages, relieve pain, and warm the Lungs and Kidneys. Pungent and slightly toxic, Xi Xin is applied cautiously and in small doses, particularly in formulas addressing severe cold invasions, hidden phlegm, or body aches. It is a classic remedy for stubborn cold-related disorders and blocked qi flow.

What Is Asarum?

Xi Xin refers to the dried root and rhizome of Asarum heterotropoides, a small aromatic plant native to East Asia. In TCM, it is classified as acrid and warm, entering the Lung, Kidney, and Heart meridians. Traditionally, Asarum is used to release the exterior, warm the interior, alleviate pain, and direct qi upward. It is often found in formulas for cold stagnation, sinus congestion, and cold-induced headache or toothache.

Health Benefits of Asarum

Dispels Wind-Cold and Opens the Nasal Passages
Xi Xin is effective for treating wind-cold invasions with nasal congestion, headaches, and chills without sweating.

Warms the Lungs and Transforms Cold Phlegm
Its warming action helps relieve coughs with thin, clear sputum and respiratory cold symptoms.

Alleviates Pain and Cold-Related Stagnation
Asarum is used to treat headaches, body aches, arthritis, or toothaches caused by internal cold or blood stasis.

Unblocks Channels and Promotes Qi Movement
It helps restore the smooth flow of qi in the body, especially when cold blocks circulation or movement.

Guides Other Herbs Upward and Enhances Penetration
Xi Xin is sometimes used to help other herbs reach the head, sinuses, or upper body more effectively.

How to Use Asarum

In Low-Dose Decoctions for Cold Invasion
Use 1–3 grams of Xi Xin, often combined with herbs like cinnamon twig, ginger, or ephedra, in cold-dispelling formulas.

In Classic Sinus and Cold Formulas
Often included in formulas such as Xiao Qing Long Tang or Cang Er Zi San for sinus pressure, chills, and congestion.

In External Applications (With Caution)
Xi Xin may be used in liniments or plasters for localized cold-related pain, but internal use should be closely supervised.

Where to Buy Asarum

You can find Xi Xin at the following places:

• Chinese herbal medicine shops

• Asian apothecaries specializing in classical formulas

• Online retailers such as Amazon, iHerb, or TCM-focused platforms

Look for:

• Fine, wiry dried roots with a strong, pungent aroma

• Wild-crafted or sustainably harvested sources

• Certified testing to ensure safrole content complies with safety standards

Are There Any Side Effects?

Asarum contains trace amounts of safrole and aristolochic acid, which may be toxic in high doses or with prolonged use. Therefore, it must be used in small amounts, always under professional supervision. Avoid use during pregnancy, with bleeding disorders, or if there is yin deficiency with heat signs.

Conclusion

Asarum, or Xi Xin, is a powerful warming herb in TCM that expels wind-cold, clears the sinuses, relieves pain, and restores warmth to the body’s core. When used skillfully and safely in small amounts, this traditional root plays a vital role in clearing cold stagnation and supporting upper respiratory health.

FAQs

Can I use Asarum every day?
No, it should only be used short-term and in low doses under the guidance of a licensed herbalist or practitioner.

What does Asarum taste like?
It has a sharp, acrid, and warming flavor with a numbing quality.

Is Asarum safe for children?
Generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed by a qualified practitioner for short-term cold-related conditions.