Atractylodes Black

Black Atractylodes Rhizome (Cang Zhu): Uses, Benefits, and TCM Wisdom

Black Atractylodes Rhizome (Cāng Zhú, 苍术), from the plant Atractylodes lancea, is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Known for its powerful ability to dry dampness, strengthen digestion, and support metabolic health, it has been trusted for centuries. We proudly offer high-grade, geo-authenticated Cang Zhu for herbalists and wellness enthusiasts alike.

Why It Works Health Benefits Chinese Theory
Contains active compounds like Atractylenolide I, II, III that reduce inflammation and support immune balance Improves digestion, reduces bloating, and relieves nausea Enters Spleen and Stomach meridians to dry Dampness and strengthen the middle burner
Regulates gut motility and balances microbiota for better nutrient absorption Supports healthy metabolism and may assist in weight management Warms the digestive fire and transforms internal Damp-Phlegm
Modulates cytokine activity, supporting inflammatory response and immune defense Alleviates joint pain, especially in damp-related conditions like arthritis Dispels Wind-Damp and opens meridian pathways
Acts as a mild diuretic and detoxifier through increased fluid metabolism Promotes urination, reduces water retention and edema Drains Dampness through the spleen, and protects the yang Qi
Protects liver cells and shows antioxidant properties in modern studies May support liver function and improve skin clarity Restores Spleen Qi and clears Damp-Heat accumulation

Modern Benefits and Active Compounds

Research shows that Black Atractylodes Rhizome contains essential bioactive compounds such as Atractylenolide I, II, and III, which exhibit the following benefits:

Compound Function
Atractylenolide I Anti-inflammatory, immune support
Atractylenolide II Antimicrobial, digestive aid
Atractylenolide III Supports liver, potential anti-tumor action

How to Use Cang Zhu - Black Atractylodes

Typical daily dosage: 3–10 grams in decoction form. It is often combined with complementary herbs depending on the condition being treated.

Popular Combinations

Herb Purpose of Pairing
Bai Zhu Balances spleen tonification with less dryness
Hou Po Boosts digestive function and damp elimination
Huo Xiang Relieves nausea and harmonizes the stomach
Ze Xie Promotes urination, reduces damp accumulation

Popular TCM Formulas Featuring Cang Zhu

  • Ping Wei San (Calm the Stomach Powder): For damp stagnation causing bloating and sluggish digestion.
  • Ba Zheng San (Eight Herb Powder): For urinary discomfort and damp-heat in the lower burner.

Important Safety Notes

  • Do not use in cases of Yin deficiency with heat signs (e.g., night sweats, dry mouth)
  • Not recommended during pregnancy unless directed by a qualified practitioner
  • Long-term use should be balanced with moistening herbs

Why Buy Our Black Atractylodes Rhizome

  • Harvested in authentic Daodi regions like Hubei and Anhui
  • Lab-tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and sulfites
  • GMP-certified for safety and purity
  • Available in whole, cut, and powder forms

FAQ - Common Questions

Is this the same as White Atractylodes?

No. White Atractylodes (Bai Zhu) is gentler and more tonifying, while Black Atractylodes (Cang Zhu) is more drying and dispersing.

Can I take it long-term?

Yes, if balanced correctly in formulas and monitored for signs of dryness or heat.

Is it good for weight loss?

Indirectly, yes. It improves digestive metabolism, reduces bloating, and may support fat metabolism.

Ready to Try Black Atractylodes?

Explore our top-quality Black Atractylodes Rhizome today and experience a time-tested herb trusted for digestive, metabolic, and immune support.

Shop Atractylodes Black Forms and Sizes of Bulk Herbs Below

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Common Name: Atractylodes Black, Black atcratylodes root, Atractylodes lancea rhizome, Swordlike Atractylodes, Chinese Atractylodes Rhizome
Botanical Name: Rhizoma Atractylodis
Pin Yin Name: Cang Zhu
Atractylodes Black Dosage: Consult your healthcare provider for your correct dose.
Atractylodes Black Precautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.  Do not use with loose, watery bowels.

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Summary of Atractylodes Black Health Benefits & Information

Atractylodes Black is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb to expel wind-damp-cold, dry dampness, induce sweating and ease pain.  It is also used as a tonic.  Atractylodes Black benefits vision, supports normal digestion, eases extremity pain and body aches. Atractylodes Black contains apoptogenic, anticoagulant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and diuretic properties.
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Atractylodes Black Herb Category:  Herbs That Release the Exterior: Warm, Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior
Atractylodes Black Properties:  Spicy, Bitter, Warm, Aromatic
Atractylodes Black Channels / Medians:  Stomach, Spleen, Liver
Atractylodes Black Naturally Occurring Components:  atractylol, hinesol, β-eudesmol, β-selinene, elemol, 3β-acetoxy-attractylol, 。Vitamin A, Vitamin B, inuli, essential oils

What Is The Difference Between White Atractylodes and Black Actractylodes?

Feature White Atractylodes (Bai Zhu, 白术) Black Atractylodes (Cang Zhu, 苍术)
Botanical Species Atractylodes macrocephala Atractylodes lancea
TCM Nature & Flavor Warm, sweet, slightly bitter Warm, pungent, bitter
Main Function Tonifies the Spleen, strengthens Qi, stops diarrhea Strongly dries Dampness, improves digestion, dispels Wind-Damp
Primary Use Weak digestion, fatigue, loose stools, edema Damp obstruction, poor appetite, bloating, joint pain
Processing Method Often stir-fried (Chao Bai Zhu) for enhanced Spleen tonification Typically stir-fried with bran or ginger to reduce drying effect
Best For Chronic digestive weakness and Spleen Qi deficiency Acute damp conditions, heaviness, and musculoskeletal issues
Common Formulas Si Jun Zi Tang, Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Ping Wei San, Ba Zheng San
Contraindications Not ideal for patients with excess or damp-heat conditions Avoid in Yin deficiency or dryness without dampness
Flavor & Aroma Mild and earthy, easier to tolerate Strong, pungent, and aromatic

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Herbs That Combine With Atractylodes Black

Patchouli     Coix Seed     Nutgrass     Stephania     Bai Zhi     Magnolia Bark

References: 
http://alternativehealing.org/cang_zhu.htm
https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/cang-zhu
 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/atractylodes-macrocephala-extract
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Cang-Zhu-Cid3245
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7521906/ 

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