Stemona Root Chinese Herb
Stemona Root (Bai Bu): A Moistening Herb for Coughs, Lung Dryness, and Parasites
Introduction
Stemona root, known as Bai Bu (百部) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a sweet and slightly bitter herb used primarily to stop coughing, moisten the Lungs, and expel parasites such as lice and pinworms. Unlike harsh cough suppressants, Bai Bu soothes the respiratory tract gently, making it suitable for both chronic and acute coughs—especially dry or deficiency-related ones.
What Is Stemona Root?
Bai Bu is the prepared root of the Stemona sessilifolia or Stemona japonica plant, traditionally dried and sliced for use in decoctions or powders. In TCM, it is classified as sweet, bitter, and slightly warm, and it enters the Lung meridian.
This herb is best known for its dual action of moistening the Lungs while also acting as an anti-parasitic remedy—unique among respiratory herbs. It can be used alone or in formulas for dry cough, tuberculosis-related cough, or itchy skin caused by lice infestations.
Health Benefits of Stemona Root
Stops Cough and Moistens the Lungs
Ideal for dry, stubborn coughs due to Lung yin deficiency, chronic bronchitis, or post-infection dryness.
Clears Lung Heat and Relieves Wheezing
Used for coughs with yellow phlegm or heat signs, although it is not overly cooling—making it balanced.
Kills Parasites and Relieves Itching
Applied externally for lice, scabies, or pinworms; also used in washes or powders for dermatological use.
Gentle Enough for Children or the Elderly
Its soft, moistening nature makes it suitable for more delicate constitutions with dryness or fatigue.
Used in Tuberculosis Cough Formulas
Traditionally included in formulas for lingering or consumptive cough, often combined with herbs like Chuan Bei Mu or Sha Shen.
How to Use Stemona Root
In Decoctions for Dry or Deficiency Cough
Use 3–9 grams per dose, decocted with other herbs such as Mai Men Dong or Xing Ren.
In External Washes or Powders for Lice or Scabies
Crushed into powder or boiled into a wash, applied to affected skin or scalp.
In Syrups or Lozenges for Sore Throat and Dry Cough
Included in many traditional Chinese cough syrups for children and adults.
In Chronic Cough Formulas
Often paired with Tian Men Dong, Wu Wei Zi, or Bai He to nourish Lung yin and stop cough.
Where to Buy Stemona Root
You can find Ba Bu at the following places:
- Chinese herbal apothecaries and TCM pharmacies
- Online herbal suppliers like iHerb, Mayway, or Amazon
- Specialty shops offering herbs for respiratory and skin care
Look for:
- Whole dried roots or uniform sliced sections
- Sulfur-free, clean, aromatic samples
- Organic or lab-tested for safety, especially if using externally
Are There Any Side Effects?
Stemona root is generally well tolerated, especially for short- to medium-term use. However, it may cause mild nausea or gastrointestinal upset in large doses. It should be avoided in cases of damp-cold cough with copious phlegm, as it is moistening and slightly warm.
Always consult a practitioner before long-term use or if combining with other strong medications.
Conclusion
Stemona root, or Bai Bu, is a mild yet effective herb that excels at treating dry coughs, nourishing the Lungs, and resolving parasitic conditions like lice or pinworms. Its soothing, balanced nature makes it ideal for chronic or lingering coughs, especially in children, the elderly, or those with yin deficiency. A key herb in respiratory support, it brings moisture and relief without excessive heat or dryness.
FAQs
Can I take Stemona root daily?
Yes, for a short course under practitioner guidance—especially for chronic or dry cough patterns.
What does Stemona root taste like?
It has a sweet, earthy taste with a slightly bitter undertone.
Is Stemona root safe for children?
Yes, it is one of the more child-friendly herbs in TCM, often used in pediatric cough syrups and formulas.