Key Characteristics: assists the yang qi to throw off pathogenic wind, which has trapped the yang qi internally; especially appropriate during the hot summer months; also harmonizes the spleen and transforms dampness.
Properties:
Acrid,aromatic, slightly warm
Meridian/Organs Affected:
Lung, Stomach
Actions:
- releases the exterior, expels summer heat, transform dampness: externally contracted patterns of summer heat or dampness like chills, fever, headache, absence of sweating, body aches and diarrhea
- promotes urination and reduces swelling: for edema and difficulty urination, especially when associated with an exterior pattern.