Atractylodes ~ Atractylodes macrocephala

Atractylodes

Latin name: Atractylodes macrocephala

Family: Asteraceae

Part used: rhizome

Habitat:Asia

Main constituents: 2-furaldehyde, 3-beta-acetoxyatractylon, 3-beta-hydroxyatractrylon, acetylatractylodinol, atractylodin, atractylodinol, atractylon (sesqueterpene lactone), Beta-selinene, Iron, L-alpha-bisabolol Energetics: bitter, sweet, warm

Main herbal actions: energy tonic, stomachic, appetite stimulant, diuretic, diaphoretic, antiseptic, laxative

Minor herbal actions: diaphoretic

Main medicinal uses: joint conditions, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea, eczema, edema, night blindness

Minor medicinal uses: rheumatoid arthritis

Preparations: decoction: max 9 g qd

Contraindications: pregnancy, lactation

Toxicity: generally safe at appropriate doses

Sources: http://www.rain-tree.com/atractylodes.htm; http://www.naturalhealthnotebook.com/Herbs/Latin_Herbs/Genus-A/Atractylodes_macrocephala.htm; http://www.susanlovemd.com/takecharge/alternatives/herbs/atractylodes.htm