White Peony Root (Bai Shao) is a key TCM herb that nourishes the blood, preserves yin, soothes the Liver, relieves pain, and regulates menstruation. Rich in glycosides like paeoniflorin, it offers anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, calming, and circulatory benefits.
Radix Puerariae (Ge Gen) – also known as Kudzu Root, Cam Ge Gen, or Bai Ge Gen – is the root of Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi, a precious herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine. With a sweet and acrid flavor, neutral nature, entering the Spleen, Stomach, Lung, and Bladder meridians, Ge Gen is widely used to clear heat, release the exterior, promote body fluids, relieve muscle tension, stop diarrhea, and detoxify alcohol. Modern studies have confirmed that its bioactive compounds—Puerarin, Daidzein, and Genistein—exhibit vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Ge Gen helps improve cerebral and coronary circulation, supporting the treatment of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and menopausal symptoms. Traditionally, it is also valued for its ability to relieve fever, reduce thirst, and alleviate gastrointestinal disorders. In folk medicine, Kudzu starch drink made from Ge Gen is used as a cooling, detoxifying, and beautifying tonic, helping to soothe the liver and nourish the body. With its broad range of therapeutic effects and modern scientific backing, Ge Gen (Radix Puerariae) stands as a key medicinal herb in both classical formulas and modern health applications, balancing tradition and evidence-based wellness.
Gou Teng (Uncaria rhynchophylla), also known as Uncaria Stem with Hooks, is a treasured herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, renowned for its abilities to calm the Liver, extinguish internal wind, lower blood pressure, and protect the nervous system. The medicine is derived from the hook-bearing stems and branches of the plant, symbolizing flexible strength and harmony. In TCM, it has a sweet, slightly cold nature, entering the Liver, Heart, and Pericardium meridians. It is commonly prescribed for dizziness, hypertension, epilepsy, tremor, insomnia, and headaches caused by hyperactive Liver Yang. Modern pharmacological studies have revealed that Uncaria rhynchophylla contains bioactive alkaloids such as rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline, which possess antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, supporting treatment of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cerebral circulation disorders. The herb also helps reduce muscle stiffness, improve blood microcirculation, protect the liver, and stabilize blood pressure. With its mild, balancing nature, Gou Teng is considered a safe natural option for elderly individuals, those under stress, suffering from insomnia, or prone to high blood pressure. However, it should be used cautiously by individuals with low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, or those taking anticoagulants or cardiovascular medications.
