Cang Zhu, known as Atractylodes lancea, is a powerful dampness-drying and spleen-strengthening herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is commonly used to resolve dampness, improve digestion, boost immunity, dispel wind-damp from the joints, and enhance vision. Cang Zhu is especially beneficial for individuals experiencing poor appetite, bloating, diarrhea, joint pain, and damp-related conditions.
Functions & Benefits
Dries Dampness and Strengthens the SpleenUsed for poor digestion, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and lack of appetite caused by damp accumulation in the digestive system.
Expels Wind-Damp and Relieves PainEffective for joint pain, swelling, and heaviness in the limbs caused by dampness obstructing the meridians.
Clears Dampness and Supports ImmunityKnown for its ability to dispel external dampness, making it useful for boosting immune function and protecting against colds and flu.
Improves Vision and Clears Dampness from the EyesHelps treat blurred vision, night blindness, and eye discomfort caused by damp obstruction.
IndicationsIndividuals with digestive issues like bloating, nausea, and loose stoolsPeople experiencing joint pain, swelling, or damp-related body heavinessPatients with blurred vision or eye discomfort due to dampness accumulationThose with low immunity or susceptibility to colds and damp-related illnesses
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCMTongue: Thick greasy white or yellow coating (indicating damp accumulation)Pulse: Slippery and slow (suggesting damp retention)
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Cang ZhuDampness Obstructing the Middle Jiao – Poor digestion, bloating, nauseaWind-Damp Bi Syndrome – Joint pain, swelling, and stiffnessDamp Obstruction in the Eyes – Blurred vision, heaviness in the eyes
Precautions & ContraindicationsNot suitable for individuals with severe Yin deficiency or heat conditions.Use with caution in cases of excessive dryness or fluid depletion.Avoid long-term use in individuals with weak constitution and excessive internal dryness.
ConclusionCang Zhu is a potent dampness-resolving and spleen-strengthening herb, widely used for digestive health, joint pain relief, immunity enhancement, and vision improvement. Its ability to dry dampness, support digestion, and expel wind-damp makes it an essential remedy for conditions related to excess dampness and stagnation in the body.
