Pinyin: shan zha

Properties: sweet, sour, slightly warm
Channels Entered: Liver, Spleen, Stomach


CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
1. Promotes Digestion, Eliminates Stagnation

2. Activates Blood Circulation, Disperses Blood Stagnation

3. Treats Cardiovascular Disorder

DOSAGE
10 to 15 grams in decoction. The maximum dosage of Shan Zha is 30 grams. The unprocessed herb dissolves food stagnation and activates blood circulation. Dry-fry- ing the herb reduces the sour taste and astringent property of the herb, thereby harmonizing the overall effect. Blackening the herb increases the bitter taste, which potentiates its effect to reduce abdominal distention and relieve diarrhea. Charring, that is, burning the herb to ash, enhances its influence to stop bleeding.

CAUTIONS I CONTRAINDICA TIONS
• Shan Zha should be used with caution in patients with Spleen and Stomach deficiencies.
• Because Shan Zha may stimulate the production and secretion of gastric acid, it should be used with caution in patients who have gastritis or peptic ulcers.
• Prolonged intake of Shan Zha is not recommended as it will eventually interrupt the normal flow of Spleen and Stomach qi.