Du Huo---Angelica...

Du Huo (DO YUOW) Angelica----Angelicae Pubescentis Radix----- Du Huo is used to treat many different types of conditions. We are studying its effect on dispeling wind -cold- damp. This condition would occur when we see the first onset of illness such fever, chills, headache, and joint pain. Du Huo releases exterior for wind cold damp conditions (similar to Qiang Huo). Du Huo is a very important Bi pain herb used in the famous formula Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang. It moves qi and blood stagnating in the channels. Qiang Huo travels upward to the neck and shoulders, while Du Huo travels downward to the low back and legs and also treats toothaches.


I would describe angelica root as being dry and hard. The smell is damp or moist, loud woody male tone. The color can range from yellowish brown to pale yellowish brown. It is easily attacked by bugs, so freeeze for 2 days upon arrival. Its texture is woody with moving dark shades ridging along the slighty ruff surface and darker barky outline. Du Huo has a purgent smell and a bitter taste.

Properties: BITTER, PUNGENT - (WARM-not included in class notes) Dosage: 3 – 9g.

Angelica Meridian:KIDNEY, BLADDER Root -dispel wind-cold-damp, relieve pain, release exterior, allevates chronic or acute Bi pain in low back or legs

Release exterior for wind cold damp conditions (similar to Qiang Huo) fever, chills, headache, and joint pain. A very important Bi pain herb used in the famous formula Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (http://www.healthline.com/natstandardcontent/du-huo-ji-sheng-wan). Moves qi and blood stagnating in channels.

Affects the lower part of body:

-lesser Yin head ache and tooth ache (use topical application 15-30 g)

Possible tranquilizing and hypnotic effect

-itchy skin due to wind - damp



Contra indications: *Do not use for excess or deficient heat syndromes (yin deficiency with heat).



Also Used For:

Orally, Du Huo / Angelica root is used for loss of appetite, gastrointestinal spasms, feeling of fullness, and flatulence.

Topically, Du Huo / Angelica root is used to create warmth in neuralgia and rheumatism, and is used for skin disorders. It is also used as part of a multi-ingredient preparation for treating premature ejaculation.

Historically, Du Huo / Angelica root has been used to promote menstrual flow, as an abortifacient, antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic, and as a cure for the plague.


Du Huo and Qiang Huo are often compared because they have similar actions, but Du Huo travels downward to the low back and legs, and Qiang Huo travels upward to the neck and shoulders.

Dr.