Sheng Ma: Clear Heat and Detoxify
Origin of Sheng Ma (Skunk Bugbane Rhizome)
In "Compendium of Materia Medica" by Li Shizhen, it is explained that "its leaves resemble hemp and its nature is upward, hence it is called Sheng Ma." Sheng Ma was first recorded in "Ming Yi Bie Lu" (Separate Records of Famous Physicians) and was classified as a top-grade medicinal herb. "Sheng Ma grows in the mountain valleys of Yizhou. Its roots are collected in February and August, then dried in the sun."
"Ben Cao Tu Jing" (Illustrated Classic of Materia Medica) states: "Sheng Ma is now found in Sichuan, Han, Shaanxi, and Huainan provinces, but the one from Sichuan is considered superior."
Varietal Source
This herb comes from the rhizomes of Cimicifuga heracleifolia (Kom.) or Cimicifuga dahurica (Turcz.) (also known as Xing An Sheng Ma or Northern Sheng Ma) and Cimicifuga foetida L. It is mainly produced in Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Hunan, Shanxi, and other regions. The rhizomes are harvested in summer and autumn, then dried and cut into slices. They can be used raw or processed with honey.
Nature and Meridians
Pungent and sweet, slightly cold. Enters the Lung, Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians.
Functions and Indications
Sheng Ma can promote the eruption of skin rashes, clear heat, and detoxify. It also lifts and raises Yang Qi. It is used for wind-heat headaches and measles that do not erupt. Sheng Ma has a pungent, sweet, and slightly cold nature, with the ability to disperse and scatter, making it effective in promoting skin rashes.
Precautions in Use
Sheng Ma is a medicinal herb that promotes Yang Qi. There are many precautions when using it. "Ben Cao Zheng Yi" (Correct Meaning of Materia Medica) states: "Sheng Ma can disperse wind evil in the Yangming skin pores, promote sweating, and its effect is quite strong. It should only be used for those with obstructed external evil. However, it is not suitable for those with internal heat manifesting outwardly. Also, due to its upward nature, it can relieve headache caused by wind-cold on the vertex, but it is a big taboo for headache caused by floating Yang." Excessive dosage can lead to symptoms such as headaches, trembling, limb convulsions, and even heart inhibition, low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. The main symptoms of poisoning are motor inhibition and central nervous system suppression, and the treatment includes inducing vomiting and gastric lavage.
Cheng Kuang
Founded in 1970, Cheng Kuang Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. has a history spanning over half a century. With the self-ascribed title of "Experts in Alleviating Pain," the company has been dedicated to the innovation, research and development, manufacturing, service, and quality enhancement of topical herbal medicines.
