Herbs That Transform Dampness | TCM Remedies for Digestion & Health
Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness
Herbs with an aromatic acrid flavor and a primary action of transforming dampness or drying dampness to activate the spleen are called "Herbs that transform dampness"
Defined by Chinese Materia Medica By Zhangfu Chang, Dexian Jia, James Bare
| Herb Name | Botanical Name | Functions & Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cang Zhu | Atractylodes Rhizome | Strongly dries dampness, helps with digestion, and reduces bloating. |
| Hou Po | Magnolia Bark | Moves stagnant dampness, relieves bloating, and reduces nausea. |
| Bai Dou Kou | Cardamom Fruit | Aromatic, dries dampness, improves digestion, and stops nausea. |
| Sha Ren | Amomum Fruit | Warms the stomach, moves dampness, and helps with indigestion. |
| Pei Lan | Eupatorium | Clears damp heat, removes sticky saliva, and freshens breath. |
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), "herbs that transform dampness" refer to herbs that help the body get rid of excess dampness—a condition where moisture builds up inside the body, leading to symptoms like:
- Heavy limbs
- Feeling sluggish or tired
- Digestive issues (bloating, nausea, diarrhea)
- Excess mucus or phlegm
- Swollen joints or water retention
These herbs work by drying dampness, promoting digestion, and helping fluids move properly in the body.
When Are These Herbs Used?
They are commonly used when a person has "Dampness" in TCM, often due to:
✅ Eating too many oily, greasy, or cold foods
✅ Living in humid environments
✅ Weak digestion (Spleen Qi Deficiency in TCM)
Example TCM Formula for Dampness
- Ping Wei San (Calm the Stomach Powder) – A famous formula with Cang Zhu, Hou Po, and other herbs to transform dampness and improve digestion.