Pinyin: lai fu zi (chao)

Properties: acrid, sweet, neutral
Channels Entered: Spleen, Stomach, Lung

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
1. Dissolves Food Stagnation, Promotes Digestion and Reduces Distention

2. Descends Qi, Dissolves Phlegm

DOSAGE
6 to 10 grams. Lai Fu Zi is used in herbal decoctions, pills, or powder. Unprocessed, this herb has stronger ascending and dispersing actions, and is commonly used to eliminate phlegm. Dry-fried, the herb has a better function to counter adverse rising qi, dissolve phlegm, promote digestion, and reduce distention. In addition, dry-frying the herb enhances the extraction of active constituents.

CAUTIONS I CONTRAINDICA TIONS
• Lai Fu Zi is contraindicated in patients with qi and blood deficiencies, or in those who do not have food stagnation.
• Use Lai Fu Zi with caution, as prolonged use or overdose may consume ql.
• Fresh Lai Fu Zi may cause nausea. This can be minimized by using it in an herbal decoction, or using the dry- fried form in pills or powder.
• Lai Fu Zi antagonizes the tonic effect of Ren Shen (Radix Ginseng); these two herbs should not be used together.