Rangoon creeper, AKA Chinese honeysuckle, is a natural purgative whose seeds are used to expel intestinal worms and parasites

Endorsed by the Philippine Department of Health for its deworming ability

High in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties; also has been shown to help lower cholesterol  

AKA Japanese pagoda tree or Japanese sophora

The flowers contain beneficial phytochemicals such as rutin, quercetin, fatty acids and polysaccharides

Rutin and quercetin are studied extensively for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties 

TCM applications

• Targets the large intestine and liver meridians

• Cools the blood to stop bleeding 

• Clears excessive fire in the liver 

• Dries dampness

• Promotes elimination

Has long been used in Chinese medicine to combat parasitic infections and as a natural insecticide

Considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs in TCM

Most commonly used to treat coughs, weezing and asthma

Antiparasitic, antitussive (prevents/relieves coughs), diuretic and laxative properties

TCM applications

• Targets the lung meridian

• Clears heat

• Dries dampness

• Promotes circulation of Qi

• Qi and Blood tonic

Considered one of the best tonic herbs in Chinese herbalism, next to ginseng, for treating qi deficiency and conditions caused by excess dampness  

Used for bloating, nausea and diarrhea in Western medicine applications

Antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory properties

TCM applications

• Targets spleen and stomach meridians

• Dries and clears dampness, especially in the digestive system

• Supports spleen qi and strengthens the spleen

AKA Chinese Yams, is considered a foundational tonic for good health 

Long been known in Chinese medicine to promote longevity, prevent cardiovascular problems, build blood, increase appetite, improve fertility and lower blood sugar levels

TCM applications

• Targets kidney, lung and spleen meridians

• Tonifies and supports lung qi

• Tonifies the kidneys

• Nourishes Blood

• Calms Shen (spirit)

AKA Hyacinth bean, has been proven to show anti-fungal activity, especially against Candida albicans 

Used for centuries to treat diarrhea and stomach issues

A 2020 study found that Dolichos lablab had strong potential as a supplement to COVID-19 medical treatment to support the immune system and prevent viral infection 

Antibacterial, antiviral, diuretic and potential hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) properties

TCM applications

• Targets spleen and stomach meridians

• Clears heat

• Dries dampness

• Replenish Blood and Qi

An adaptogen, meaning it helps our body manage and adapt to stress (physical, biological or chemical)

Support urinary tract health

considered one of the premier Yin tonic herbs and is one of the most widely used herbs in TCM, next to licorice root

Offer natural sedative properties to support sound sleep

Support lungs, liver and heart in TCM

The ancients of China said that Fu Ling (Poria), “Restores and refreshes the body and mind, and if used regularly it will prolong life.”

Most commonly used to treat gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, abdominal pain, ulcers and vomiting

Anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, analgesic, hepatoprotective properties

TCM applications

• Targets the liver, gallbladder, stomach, spleen, large intestine and San Jaio meridians

• Classified as a Qi regulator

• Relieves spleen, stomach, liver, gallbladder and intestine stagnation 

• Strengthens the spleen

• Clears heat and dries dampness

• Promotes elimination

Directly translates to “aged peel” in Chinese

AKA tangerine or mandarin peel, is often used to improve the taste of any formula it is added to, while also strengthening the formula 

Anti-inflammatory and carminative properties (this means chen pi relieves gas and soothes the digestive tract) 

TCM applications

• Builds and moves qi, like all orange peels 

• Targets lung, spleen and stomach meridians

• Prevents stagnation

• Supports spleen qi

• Dries dampness 

Widely used to treat arthritis, joint pain, amenorrhea, acute appendicitis and abdominal pain

Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial and anti-sepsis properties

TCM applications

• Targets liver and lung meridians

• Clears heat and dampness

• Promotes blood circulation

• Kills worms/parasites

Commonly used in TCM for coughs and colds, gastrointestinal issues, and female reproductive issues

Known in TCM as a “guide drug”, it enhances the effects of any herbs it is used with and guides the other herbs to where they would be most beneficial

Improves fatigue by regulating cortisol and supporting the adrenals 

Anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunostimulating properties

Also works as an antispasmodic, helping reduce muscle pain as well as joint pain