Herbal Information for Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao) in Cut Form

Exploring the Benefits and Applications of Yu Xing Cao (Houttuynia Cordata)

Yu Xing Cao, scientifically known as Houttuynia cordata, is a remarkable herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This perennial herb is known for its potent medicinal properties and has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries. Its name, Yu Xing Cao, translates to "fishy-smelling herb," reflecting its distinct odor. The herb grows in moist environments across China and other parts of Asia and has a variety of applications in both traditional and modern medicine.

The Medicinal Properties of Yu Xing Cao

Yu Xing Cao is renowned for its diverse therapeutic benefits. It contains a range of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and volatile oils, which contribute to its medicinal efficacy. This herb is primarily celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

The anti-inflammatory effects of Yu Xing Cao are significant in treating various conditions. Studies have shown that the herb can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, making it effective in managing conditions like asthma, arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases. The bioactive compounds in Yu Xing Cao, such as quercetin and quercitrin, play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.

Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties

Yu Xing Cao has potent antiviral properties, making it an effective remedy for respiratory infections. It has been traditionally used to treat ailments like the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Modern research has confirmed its efficacy against various viruses, including those responsible for influenza and other respiratory conditions. Moreover, its antibacterial properties make it useful in combating bacterial infections, including those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Immune System Support

This herb also supports the immune system by enhancing the body's natural defenses. It promotes the activity of white blood cells and helps in the detoxification process, aiding in the removal of toxins from the body. The immunomodulatory effects of Yu Xing Cao are particularly beneficial in preventing infections and supporting overall health.

How Yu Xing Cao (Houttuynia Cordata) Helps with Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease and Yu Xing Cao

Lyme disease is a complex, multi-systemic illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. This disease can lead to severe symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, neurological issues, and more. Yu Xing Cao, or Houttuynia cordata, is a traditional herb recognized for its potent medicinal properties that can aid in managing Lyme disease. 

Antibacterial Properties

Yu Xing Cao has demonstrated significant antibacterial effects, which are crucial in combating the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria responsible for Lyme disease.

Inhibition of Bacterial Growth

Studies indicate that the bioactive compounds in Yu Xing Cao, such as quercetin and methyl-nonyl ketone, exhibit strong antibacterial activity against various pathogens, including the Lyme-causing Borrelia burgdorferi. These compounds help inhibit the growth and replication of the bacteria, reducing the bacterial load in the body.

Enhancement of Antibiotic Efficacy

Yu Xing Cao may also enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics commonly used in treating Lyme disease. By weakening the bacterial cell walls and disrupting their metabolic processes, Yu Xing Cao allows antibiotics to penetrate more effectively, thus improving their overall efficacy.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

One of the significant challenges of Lyme disease is the chronic inflammation it causes in various body systems, leading to persistent symptoms.

Reduction of Inflammation

Yu Xing Cao contains potent anti-inflammatory agents like quercitrin and rutin, which help in reducing inflammation. These compounds inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulate the immune response, which can help alleviate joint pain, muscle aches, and other inflammatory symptoms associated with Lyme disease.

Support for Autoimmune Balance

Chronic Lyme disease can lead to autoimmune reactions where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Yu Xing Cao’s ability to modulate immune responses helps maintain a balanced immune system, reducing the risk of autoimmune flare-ups and complications.

Immune System Support

A robust immune system is essential in fighting off Lyme disease and preventing recurrent infections.

Stimulation of Immune Function

Yu Xing Cao enhances the activity of various immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in identifying and eliminating pathogens. This immune-boosting effect helps the body mount an effective defense against Borrelia burgdorferi and other opportunistic infections that can complicate Lyme disease.

Detoxification Support

Lyme disease often leads to a buildup of toxins in the body due to the bacterial die-off and inflammation. Yu Xing Cao aids in detoxification by promoting liver function and the elimination of toxins through the urine. This detoxifying effect helps reduce the burden on the immune system and supports overall health.

Neuroprotective Effects

Lyme disease can cause significant neurological issues, including cognitive impairment, neuropathy, and mood disorders.

Protection Against Neuroinflammation

Yu Xing Cao’s anti-inflammatory properties extend to the nervous system, where it helps reduce neuroinflammation. This can protect against the neurological damage often seen in chronic Lyme disease and alleviate symptoms such as brain fog and neuropathic pain.

Cognitive Support

The flavonoids in Yu Xing Cao, particularly quercetin, have been shown to support cognitive function by enhancing brain health and reducing oxidative stress. This makes it a valuable herb for managing the cognitive symptoms associated with Lyme disease.

Traditional and Modern Applications

Traditional Uses

In TCM, Yu Xing Cao is used to clear heat, eliminate toxins, and promote urination. It is often prescribed for conditions like lung abscesses, dysentery, and urinary tract infections. The herb is typically consumed as a decoction, where it is boiled with water to extract its medicinal compounds.

Modern Applications

In modern medicine, Yu Xing Cao is gaining attention for its potential in treating a variety of health issues. It is being researched for its role in managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, its use in topical applications for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis is becoming increasingly popular.

Preparing and Using Yu Xing Cao

Yu Xing Cao can be used in various forms, including fresh leaves, dried powder, tinctures, and capsules. Here are some common methods of preparation:

Decoction

To make a decoction, boil 15-30 grams of dried Yu Xing Cao in water for about 30 minutes. This traditional method is used to extract the active ingredients and is commonly consumed for internal health benefits.

Tincture

A tincture can be made by soaking the fresh or dried herb in alcohol for several weeks. This concentrated form is convenient for those who prefer a liquid extract and is typically taken in small, diluted doses.

Topical Application

For skin conditions, Yu Xing Cao can be made into a paste or used in ointments. Crushing the fresh leaves and applying them directly to the skin can provide relief from irritation and inflammation.

Common Name:   Houttuynia

Botanical Name:  Houttuynia Cordata herb

Meridians / Channels: Liver, Lung, Large Intestine

Pin Yin Name:   Yu Xing Cao

Other Names: Houtuynia, Fishy Smell Herb, Fish mint , Lizard tail, Chameleon plant, Heart leaf, Dokudami

Translation of Name:   “fish-smelling plant,”

Latin Name:  Herba cum radice houttuyniae cordatae

Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.

Package Size:   500 Grams   ( 1.1 pounds)

Form:   Cut / Sliced - sizes vary    

How to Use:   Tea, Infusion, Syrup, Salve, Topical

Origin: China

Brand: Plum Flower, species - authenticated herbs

Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.  Toxicity is mild.Vaginal applications have caused inflammation but symptoms subsided after stopping the applications. A cooling herb, so don’t use in cold syndromes.

Special Note:   Should not be over brewed. 

Product Properties:  Acrid, Cool, Bitter

Herb Category: 
Herbs That Clean Heat and Purge Fire
Target Warm and Heat Diseases
Herbs That Clean Heat and Detoxify

California Prop 65 

Naturally Occurring Components:  Decanoylacetaldehyde, Myrcene, α- Pinene, Linalool, Quercetin

Summary of Yu Xing Cao  - Houttuynia cordata herb

• Supports healthy liver function
• Botanicals for supporting the body's normal elimination of fluid.
• Botanicals for promoting healthy respiration.
• Yu Xing Cao is part of S. Buhners protocol in his book Healing Lyme Disease
• Reduces swelling
• Expels Pus
• Promotes Urination
• Benefits Respiratory System
• Support Urinary System

Harvest: Cut after flowering in summer.

Why is it called Fishy Smell Herb?

When Yu Xing Cao is harvested fresh, there is a noticeable scent of fish. This aroma does dissipate as the herb dries.

Interesting Fact: Yu Xing Cao  (Dokudami) was once used as an antidote to poisons and its common name means “poison blocking” in Japanese.

Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:

• How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes
• How to make a citrus facial splash
• Cayenne pepper: Caterpillar and aphid spray ( Natural insect repellent )
• Citrus potpourri basket       

About Plum Flower Quality Herb Cut Bulk Herbs

Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.

Main Characteristics (Attributes) of Herbs

• Harvested at the proper level of maturity and correct time of the season to maximize potency.
• Free from Chlorine
• Manufactured without the use of sulphur
• Preservative Free
• Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results
• Aluminum Phosphate free
• Packaged in an airtight sealed bag
• Pin Yin Names and Botanical Names are listed on the bag
• Certificate of Analysis are available upon request
• Conforms to Standards of Chinese Pharmacopeia
• No dyes, colors, or bleaching of the herbs
• We are a authorized direct distributor of Plum Flower Herbs.
• 500 gram bag size which equal anywhere from 4 to 6 cups of herbs

Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as a supplementary aspect to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.

Why use Chinese Bulk Herbs?
Traditional Chinese Medicine curative herbal formulas have been developed, improved and perfected for over 5000 years.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient, holistic medical system used all over the world to treat a wide variety of health issues. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) works by helping to balance the bodies’ functions thus restoring health.

As soon as the Chinese people began to carve out a civilization in ancient China it developed a cultural heritage that has continued to the present day. TCM is the oldest and one of the safest, effective systems one can use to care for their body, it promotes health and helps to sustain longevity.

Chinese herbs have been with mankind for 5,000 years and will be with us in the years ahead – it is using nature’s bountiful gifts to have good health.   

References:

http://duiyaoonline.com/herbs/yuxingcao.htm
http://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=DE93B1235
http://www.chinesemedicinewiki.org/herb:yu-xing-cao
The Treatment of Modern Western Medical Diseases with Chinese Medicine By Bob Flaws, Philippe Sionneau
https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/yu-xing-cao
https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=37184
https://tcmzone.com/product/ts105/
http://eprints.intimal.edu.my/507/
https://books.google.com/books?id=s3qmDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT1225&lpg=PT1225&dq=research+on+yu+xing+cao&source=bl&ots=6yzE7Xx4Xa&sig=ACfU3U3_cNeX0VJlzwy-g-Kmrav9u3CL2A&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj-07vBxq6HAxWlMjQIHZ3lAf04RhDoAXoECB8QAw