Dipsacus Root Chinese Herb
Dipsacus Root (Xu Duan): A Bitter Herb for Tonifying Liver and Kidney, Strengthening Bones, and Healing Injuries
Introduction
Dipsacus root, known as Xu Duan (续断) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is bitter, acrid, and slightly warm. It is valued for tonifying the Liver and Kidneys, strengthening bones and tendons, and promoting the healing of injuries. Xu Duan is especially used for lower back and knee weakness, trauma with fractures, and threatened miscarriage. Its name means “restore what is broken,” reflecting its role in mending both body and spirit.
What Is Dipsacus Root?
Xu Duan comes from the dried root of Dipsacus asper or related species, a tall perennial plant with prickly stems. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and slightly warm, entering the Liver and Kidney meridians. Its strengthening and stabilizing nature makes it useful for deficiency conditions and trauma recovery.
Health Benefits of Dipsacus Root
Tonifies Liver and Kidney – Alleviates weakness, soreness, and pain in the lower back and knees.
Strengthens bones and tendons – Supports recovery from fractures, injuries, or degenerative conditions.
Stops uterine bleeding and calms fetus – Used in cases of threatened miscarriage due to Kidney deficiency.
Promotes circulation and heals injuries – Assists in recovery from trauma, bruises, and wounds.
How to Use Dipsacus Root
Decoction – Boiled with other herbs for bone and tendon weakness or injuries.
Powder – Ground root taken in small amounts for tonic use.
Herbal formulas – Commonly combined with other Kidney-tonifying herbs for chronic weakness.
Where to Buy Dipsacus Root
TCM shops – Available dried or in prepared herbal formulas.
Online suppliers – Sold as dried slices, powders, or extracts.
Look for: firm, thick root slices with a slightly sweet-bitter taste and a solid, fibrous texture.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Dipsacus root is generally safe, but should be used cautiously in cases of excess heat or difficult urination. Pregnant women should use only under professional guidance due to its effect on the uterus.
Conclusion
Dipsacus root (Xu Duan) is a bitter, slightly warm herb that tonifies the Liver and Kidneys, strengthens bones, and aids healing from injuries. Its unique ability to “restore what is broken” makes it a valued remedy in both trauma recovery and deficiency conditions.
FAQ
Can it help with fractures? – Yes, it strengthens bones and promotes healing.
Is it safe during pregnancy? – It may be used for threatened miscarriage but only under supervision.
Does it help with back pain? – Yes, it is traditionally used for lower back and knee weakness due to Kidney deficiency.