Fiyangcao (Euphorbia hirta)
Also Known As: Dafeiyang, Feiyang, Jiejiehua, Bailucao (or Garden Spurge, Asthma-plant, Hairy Spurge).
Energetic Properties: Pungent, Sour; Cool in nature.
Meridian Tropism: Enters the Lung, Bladder, and Large Intestine meridians.
Part Used: The dried whole herb of Euphorbia hirta (Fiyangcao) from the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae).
Dosage and Administration of Fiyangcao
Dosage: For internal use, typically 6-9g. For external application, use an appropriate amount, decocted in water for washing.
Preparation: Remove any impurities, wash thoroughly, slightly moisten, cut into sections, and then dry.
Benefits and Indications of Fiyangcao
Functions: This herb is traditionally used to clear heat and detoxify, resolve dampness and relieve itching, and promote lactation.
Indications: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fiyangcao is commonly utilized for conditions such as lung abscesses (lung carbuncles), breast abscesses (mastitis), boils, carbuncles, swollen sores, oral ulcers (gingival gan), dysentery, diarrhea, painful urination with heat signs (hot stranguria), bloody urine, eczema, athlete's foot, general itchy skin, and insufficient lactation after childbirth.
Modern research has explored some of the traditional uses of *Euphorbia hirta*, noting its potential anti-inflammatory properties which align with its heat-clearing functions (Li, C. et al., 2015). PMID: 26038865
Contraindications and Precautions for Fiyangcao
Pregnant women should use this herb with caution. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. While Fiyangcao has been traditionally used to help with various infections, including those affecting the skin, its antimicrobial effects have also been a subject of study (Okpala, L.C. et al., 2018). PMID: 30146748
Historical Mentions of Fiyangcao
The classic text "Biyu of Shengcao Yaoxing" (Essentials of Herbal Properties) states: "Treats wandering deficient fire, topically applied for swollen and painful gums." This highlights its historical use for addressing heat-related symptoms and localized inflammation. The diverse pharmacological activities of *Euphorbia hirta* have been reviewed, corroborating some of its traditional applications (Das, S.K. et al., 2018). PMID: 29775086
Quick Self-Check & Immediate Steps
- If... you're experiencing persistent itchy skin or a minor rash: Then... consider whether external application of Fiyangcao, as a decoction for washing, might be a suitable traditional remedy.
- If... you're a new mother struggling with insufficient lactation: Then... immediately consult a TCM practitioner to discuss if Fiyangcao or other lactation-promoting herbs could be right for you.
References
Li, C., Hu, Y., Li, S., Wang, H., & Liu, P. (2015). Anti-inflammatory activity of Euphorbia hirta L. in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. PMID: 26038865
Okpala, L.C., Eze, M.O., Enwa, F.O., & Olisa, C.N. (2018). Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Euphorbia hirta extracts. PMID: 30146748
Das, S.K., Saha, P., Sarkar, N., & Roy, S. (2018). Phytochemicals and pharmacological activities of Euphorbia hirta Linn.: A comprehensive review. PMID: 29775086
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
