Qin Jiao
English Name: gentiana macrophylla root
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae
Medica Category: Wind Damp Dispelling Herbs – Pain Relieving Herbs
Properties: Qin Jiao enters the Stomach, Liver, and Gallbladder channels; it is bitter and acrid in nature and cool in temperature.
What is Qin Jiao?:
The Chinese Herb Qin Jiao is the dried roots of the Gentiana Macrophylla (or large-leaf gentian– (Gentianna macrophylla Pall.). Native to China, the roots are harvested in the autumn, cleaned, and then dried before being used as medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Therapeutic Actions of Qin Jiao:
Qin Jiao dispels wind and dampness and opens the channel and collaterals to treat bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome). Cool in nature, Qin Jiao is most effective at treating musculoskeletal and joint pain/stiffness with heat signs (e.g. redness, swelling, and inflammation) as well as joint pain associated with changes in the weather.
Qin Jiao clears deficiency heat characterized by steaming bones and tidal fever (as well as other deficiency heat signs).
Qin Jiao, in combination with other herbs can be used to treat jaundice—it is mild in this effect and is suitable for acute jaundice in a pediatric context.
**safety note: Qin Jiao has a sedative effect and those using this herb should use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.