Teasel Root (Xu Duan) is a foundational herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, revered for its ability to support musculoskeletal health, enhance resilience after injury, and promote the regeneration of tendons, ligaments, and bones. Traditionally prescribed to “restore what is broken,” Xu Duan is commonly used to address chronic joint pain, lower back weakness, ligament strain, and recovery after trauma or surgery. It enters the Liver and Kidney meridians, helping to tonify yang energy and replenish Jing (essence), which governs the strength and flexibility of the spine and joints.
Our teasel root is geo-authenticated and sustainably harvested in the high-altitude regions of Sichuan province, where the soil and climate produce superior medicinal quality. Each batch is rigorously lab-tested for purity, heavy metals, and microbial safety, ensuring it meets our uncompromising standards. Whether you're using it to aid post-injury recovery, support bone density, or maintain flexibility with age, this herb is a trusted ally in holistic joint and skeletal care.
Teasel Root, or Xu Duan, is a traditional Chinese herb used to strengthen bones, promote healing, and tonify Kidney and Liver function. Known as “restore what is broken,” it has been valued for centuries for its restorative properties after injuries, especially those involving the lower back, knees, or tendons.
Chinese Name: Xu Duan (续断)
Botanical Name: Dipsacus asperoides
Taste & Nature: Bitter, acrid, slightly warm
TCM Category: Herbs that tonify yang
Meridians Entered: Liver, Kidney
| Benefit | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Supports bones and tendons | Promotes healing from sprains, fractures, and joint degeneration |
| Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys | Strengthens foundational Qi to nourish the sinews and bones |
| Alleviates back and knee pain | Especially effective in aging, overuse, or post-injury discomfort |
| Prevents miscarriage | Used traditionally to stabilize pregnancy when there is deficiency |
| Boosts resilience | May reduce fatigue and aid recovery during physically demanding periods |
| Form | How to Take |
| Decoction (tea) | Boil 6–15g dried root in water for 30 minutes |
| Powdered extract | 1–2g daily, mixed with water or juice |
| Tincture | Follow product label (1–2 dropperfuls, 2–3x/day) |
| Teapills or capsules | Follow dosage, usually 3–6g daily |
Check out our page on How To Use Herbs
Pro tip: For injury recovery or joint pain, Xu Duan is often combined with Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark) and Gou Ji (Chain Fern Rhizome).
Ingredients:
10g Xu Duan (Teasel Root)
10g Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark)
6g Dang Gui (Angelica Root)
6g Gou Ji (Chain Fern Rhizome)
Instructions:
Simmer herbs in 4 cups of water for 40 minutes. Strain and drink warm. Use 3–5 days a week during recovery periods.
Want more recipes? Contact us for our free recipes using Teasel root
Is Xu Duan safe for long-term use?
Yes, especially when used in formula with other herbs. Avoid use during acute illness or high fevers.
Can Xu Duan help with osteoporosis?
Yes, it’s commonly used in formulas supporting bone density and recovery from degenerative bone conditions.
How long does it take to work?
Results vary. For injury or bone support, noticeable improvement may occur in 2–4 weeks of consistent use.
Who should avoid Teasel Root?
Avoid if pregnant without supervision, or if you have yin-deficient heat or are on diuretics or anti-inflammatories.
| Teasel Root (Xu Duan) | Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong) | Gou Ji (Chain Fern) | |
| Primary Action | Tonifies yang, strengthens bones | Warms Kidney, supports joints | Expels Wind-Damp, strengthens legs |
| Best For | Injury recovery, bone trauma | Lower back, joint weakness | Arthritic pain, stiffness |
| Pairing Value | Excellent with Du Zhong, Gou Ji | Often used in yang formulas | Often combined in mobility blends |
Morning or midday is best, particularly if taken for energy, stability, or joint recovery. With food is ideal to support digestion.
Our Xu Duan is wild-harvested in Sichuan province, tested for heavy metals, microbes, and pesticide residues. It’s processed in a GMP-certified facility for purity and potency.
“After fracturing my foot, my herbalist added Xu Duan to my recovery formula. Within weeks, my pain eased and mobility returned faster than expected. I now keep it on hand for any joint stress.” — Melissa W., Verified Customer
How do you use Xu Duan?
Boil 6–15g of dried root as tea, or use tinctures, powders, or capsules. Often paired with Du Zhong and Gou Ji for enhanced results.
Is Xu Duan good for back pain?
Yes. Xu Duan is traditionally used to relieve lower back pain from deficiency, overuse, or age-related degeneration.
Teasel Root (Xu Duan) is more than an herbal relic—it’s a powerful modern-day ally for anyone looking to strengthen their foundation. Whether you're healing from injury, combating joint fatigue, or simply want to age with strength, Xu Duan may help your body “restore what’s broken.”
Always consult your licensed herbalist or healthcare provider before use.
From a TCM perspective, Xu Duan strengthens the Kidney Jing (essence) and supports the Liver, which governs tendons. Together, these functions help maintain structural integrity and mobility.
Modern pharmacological studies reveal that Dipsacus asperoides contains dipsacus saponins, which show:
Anti-inflammatory activity
Osteoblast-stimulating properties (bone-building)
Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
PubMed-backed evidence:
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