Da huang: A Downward Draining Herb
Da huang, also known as Chinese rhubarb, is a commonly used purgative. The root’s direct translation is ‘big yellow,’ demonstrated by its vibrant yellow hue.
The cold and bitter properties of da huang make it a companion to those who have signs of ‘excessive heat’ or ‘damp heat,’ especially in the lower part of the body. In other words, this downward draining herb addresses constipation, and other inflammatory issues in the colon, liver, gallbladder, stomach, and reproductive organs.The strength of the herb is well-known, therefore it is not used during pregnancy and used cautiously for the elderly or those with a weak constitution.
One recent study points to da huang’s effect on the liver. According to a study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the popular Chinese herbal formula ‘da huang fu zi tang’ can ameliorate liver damage in rats with acute pancreatitis. In Chinese medicine this is known as the herbs damp heat-clearing property.
