Prunella Spike Chinese Herb
Prunella Spike (Xia Ku Cao): A Heat-Clearing Herb for Liver Fire, Nodules, and Eye Health
Introduction
Prunella spike, known as Xia Ku Cao (夏枯草) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a cooling herb used to clear Liver fire, reduce nodules, and brighten the eyes. It is especially effective for red, painful eyes, headaches, dizziness, and masses caused by phlegm or heat. Its mildly bitter and acrid nature allows it to clear internal fire without damaging vital fluids, making it a key herb in eye, glandular, and hypertension-related formulas.
What Is Prunella Spike?
Xia Ku Cao is the dried flower spike of Prunella vulgaris, also known as self-heal or heal-all. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and cold, and it enters the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. It is traditionally used to clear excess heat from the Liver, resolve firm nodules such as goiters or lymph swelling, and disperse stagnation. It is also known for improving visual clarity and soothing tension related to Liver fire.
Health Benefits of Prunella Spike
Clears Liver Fire and Brightens the Eyes
Used for red, swollen, or painful eyes due to excess heat in the Liver channel.
Disperses Nodules and Masses
Helps soften hard swellings such as goiter, scrofula, or lymphatic lumps.
Relieves Headache and Dizziness
Alleviates symptoms of high blood pressure or Liver yang rising such as vertigo and temple pain.
Clears Heat Without Damaging Yin
Cools fire while preserving fluids, making it gentle enough for chronic use in yin-deficient individuals.
Supports Detoxification and Lymphatic Drainage
Used in modern practice for immune support, swollen glands, or as part of anti-inflammatory protocols.
How to Use Prunella Spike
In Decoctions for Liver Fire or Nodules
Use 9–15 grams with herbs like Ju Hua, Zhi Zi, or Xia Ku Cao. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.
In Eye- or Thyroid-Related Formulas
Found in blends such as Long Dan Xie Gan Tang and Xia Ku Cao Pian for fire-clearing and swelling.
In Herbal Teas for Eye and Liver Support
Commonly consumed with chrysanthemum, mulberry leaf, or cassia seed in gentle detox teas.
Where to Buy Prunella Spike
You can find Xia Ku Cao at the following places:
- Chinese herbal medicine stores
- Vision health and detox herbal suppliers
- Online retailers like iHerb, Amazon, or TCM specialty sites
Look for:
- Brown-purple dried flower spikes with compact buds
- Clean, pesticide-free herbs stored in a dry environment
- Clearly labeled botanical name: Prunella vulgaris
Are There Any Side Effects?
Prunella spike is safe and cooling, but may aggravate cold conditions in the Stomach or Spleen if used long-term. It should be used cautiously in individuals prone to cold limbs or loose stools. Avoid during pregnancy unless prescribed.
Conclusion
Prunella spike, or Xia Ku Cao, is a cooling Liver herb in TCM used to clear fire, soothe the eyes, reduce swellings, and ease hypertension-related symptoms. Whether for visual strain or chronic inflammation, it offers gentle yet effective relief for internal fire and heat stagnation.
FAQs
Can I take Prunella spike every day?
Yes, in moderate doses, especially in teas for eye strain or Liver heat. Long-term use should be balanced with warming herbs.
What does Prunella spike taste like?
It has a slightly bitter, mildly aromatic flavor with a cooling aftertaste.
Is Prunella spike safe for children?
Yes, in smaller amounts for swollen glands or eye redness, under guidance from a qualified practitioner.