Stress Management

Araceae

Antitussive, expectorant, antiemetic, antitoxin, anodyne

Draws out cold and damp, directs qi downward. It is the most important herb for cold phlegm and dampness, especially when the root of the problem is a cold, damp spleen. It is also useful for cough, phlegm, nausea, and vomiting; for this, it is commonly combined with citrus peel and ginger. Chinese herbalists also use this herb for swollen glands, nodules, and goiter caused by stagnation of cold phlegm.

Pinellia should not be used by pregnant women or those with any blood disorders, especially bleeding. It should be used with caution by those with heat conditions. Ancient texts describe pinellia as incompatible with aconite.