Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower) in TCM
Xuan Fu Hua, known as Inula Flower, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the flowers of the Inula japonica or Inula britannica plant. This herb is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its benefits in treating various respiratory and digestive conditions.
Why Does This Work?
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Phlegm-Resolving Properties: Xuan Fu Hua is renowned for its ability to resolve phlegm and clear mucus from the lungs. It works by stimulating the ciliary movement in the respiratory tract, which helps expel mucus more effectively, promoting easier breathing.
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Descending Qi: The herb has a special action in regulating the flow of qi (vital energy) in the body. It directs rebellious qi downward, making it especially effective for alleviating symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This descending action also helps relieve hiccups and nausea caused by upward-rising stomach qi.
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Moistening and Soothing Effects: The flowers have a mild soothing property, which helps to ease the irritation of the respiratory tract. This property makes Xuan Fu Hua beneficial for persistent or spasmodic coughing.
How Does Xuan Fu Hua Work?
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Active Compounds: The active constituents in Xuan Fu Hua include flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and volatile oils. These components contribute to its expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antitussive (cough-relieving) effects. The sesquiterpene lactones are particularly noted for their role in reducing inflammation and supporting the immune response.
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Synergistic Function in Formulas: In TCM, Xuan Fu Hua is often used in combination with other herbs to maximize its effectiveness. For instance, it may be paired with herbs that tonify the lungs or strengthen the spleen to create a balanced formula tailored for treating phlegm retention and digestive disruptions.
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Digestive Support: Aside from its role in treating respiratory conditions, Xuan Fu Hua also aids in digestion by improving gastrointestinal motility and helping alleviate symptoms such as bloating and discomfort associated with qi stagnation or retention of phlegm-dampness in the digestive tract.
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Traditional Understanding: According to TCM theory, phlegm accumulation and qi stagnation are linked to disharmony in the spleen, lungs, and stomach. Xuan Fu Hua’s properties target these imbalances, helping to restore proper qi movement and clear excess dampness and phlegm.
How to use Xuan Fu Hua (Inula Flower) in its whole form, follow these steps to prepare it properly and ensure its benefits are maximized while avoiding potential irritation:
Preparation Method:
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Wrap the Herb: Due to the tiny, fine hairs on Xuan Fu Hua, which can irritate the throat or respiratory tract, it is essential to wrap the whole flowers in cheesecloth or gauze before using them in decoctions. This helps prevent the hairs from mixing with the liquid and causing discomfort.
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Decoction:
- Place the wrapped Xuan Fu Hua into a pot with water.
- Typically, use about 3–10 grams of whole Xuan Fu Hua, depending on the specific recommendations of a TCM practitioner.
- Add other herbs if part of a TCM formula.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it cook for 20–30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid into a cup, discarding the wrapped herb material.
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Consumption:
- Drink the prepared decoction warm.
- Follow the dosage recommendations provided by a TCM practitioner or herbalist for the best therapeutic effects.
Suggested Uses:
- For Respiratory Health: To manage coughs with phlegm or difficulty breathing, Xuan Fu Hua helps clear mucus and reduce inflammation.
- For Digestive Issues: If experiencing digestive discomfort, bloating, or nausea due to rebellious qi, consuming a decoction of Xuan Fu Hua can help direct qi downward and ease these symptoms.
Herbal Information on Inula Flowers in Bulk Form
Product Description
Common Name: Inula Flower
Botanical Name: Inule japonica; Flos
Pin Yin Name: Xuan Fu Hua
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 1 pound
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Lab Tested
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use with colds or influenza. May impair judgement, do not use while driving or heavy machinery.
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
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About Nuherbs Lab Tested Quality.
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by our in-house lab and independent third party lab. Our in-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatography, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Micro bacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
Traditional Chinese Herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs (Teas) emphasize harmony, and balance.
References
http://alternativehealing.org/he_huan_pi.htm
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/albizia.html
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Albizia-Julibrissin-Cid4893
