Huang Qin, known as Baikal Skullcap Root, is a powerful heat-clearing and dampness-draining herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is widely used to clear heat, detoxify, stop inflammation, and dry dampness. Huang Qin is commonly prescribed for conditions such as fevers, respiratory infections, diarrhea, jaundice, and inflammatory diseases. It is especially valued for its ability to calm internal heat and support the immune system.
Functions & Benefits
Clears Heat and Drains FireUsed to treat high fever, restlessness, irritability, and infections caused by excessive heat.
Dries Dampness and Treats DiarrheaEffective for diarrhea, bloating, nausea, and jaundice due to damp-heat accumulation in the digestive system.
Detoxifies and Reduces InflammationHelps with skin infections, boils, and sores by eliminating toxins from the body.
Cools the Lungs and Treats Respiratory ConditionsUsed for cough, bronchitis, and lung infections, especially when accompanied by yellow phlegm or heat symptoms.
Calms the Fetus and Prevents MiscarriagePrescribed for restless fetus syndrome in cases where heat is affecting pregnancy.
IndicationsIndividuals with high fever, restlessness, or inflammationPeople suffering from diarrhea, jaundice, or damp-heat digestive issuesPatients with cough, respiratory infections, or lung heatPregnant women with restless fetus syndrome caused by heat
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCMTongue: Red with a yellow coating (indicating heat and damp-heat)Pulse: Rapid and slippery (suggesting internal heat and inflammation)
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Huang QinExcess Heat and Fire – High fever, red face, inflammationDamp-Heat Accumulation – Jaundice, diarrhea, digestive discomfortLung Heat – Cough, bronchitis, respiratory infectionsToxic Heat – Skin infections, boils, abscesses
Precautions & ContraindicationsNot suitable for individuals with cold or weak digestion.Avoid in cases of Spleen and Stomach deficiency with diarrhea.Use with caution during pregnancy, especially without proper guidance.
ConclusionHuang Qin is a potent heat-clearing and dampness-draining herb, widely used in TCM to treat infections, inflammation, digestive disorders, and respiratory conditions. Its ability to cool fire, detoxify, and promote immune health makes it essential in treating both acute and chronic heat-related illnesses.
