Jin Guo Lan
English Name: tinospora root
Literal Translation: “golden fruit”
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Tinosporae
Medica Category: Heat-Clearing and Toxin-Eliminating Herbs
Properties: Jin Guo Lan enters the Lung and Large Intestine channels; it is bitter in nature and cold in temperature.
What is Jin Guo Lan?:
The Chinese Herb Jin Guo Lan is the dried roots of the plant in the Tinospora genus (Tinospora capillipes), a woody, deciduous climbing shrub native to sub-tropical regions of China, India, and other countries throughout Southeast Asia. The roots themselves are harvested in late autumn, cleaned, soaked so they are softened up. Then they are sliced and sun-dried to be used as medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Therapeutic Actions of Jin Guo Lan:
Jin Guo Lan clears heat and eliminates toxins and is used topically to treat dermatological disorders such as infected sores, ulcerations, and carbuncles. It also treats sore throat and gastro-intestinal disturbances such as dysentery and diarrhea.