Niu Bang Zi

Arctium lappa, Great Burdock

Natural distribution: Northern China, Europe

Parts used: Seeds, sometimes the root

Nature: Pungent and bitter, cold

Affinity: Lungs, stomach

Effects: Antipyretic; antiphlogistic; diuretic; expectorant; anti-toxic

Indications: All "wind-heat" ailments; throat infections; pneumonia; inflammations of urinal tract; abscesses

Dosage: 3-10 grams

Remarks: A tincture of the seed applied topically is effective in curing psoriasis inveterata, hemmorroids, and chronic sores.