Properties:
Sweet
Neutral

Channels affected:
Spleen, Stomach, Heart, Lung

Uses:
Tonifies Spleen and Qi, used in cases of poor digestion and diarrhoea, treats palpitations. Moistens the Lung and stops coughing, used in colds and wheezing. Relieves pain, particularly epigastric, abdominal and muscular (both smooth and striated muscle). Clears Heat and eliminates toxins, used topically on sores and skin lesions. Treats poisoning, Harmonises other herbs by moderating their action to balance a formula.

Contraindications/precautions:
Contraindicated in large dosages and long term use for patients with oedema, kidney disorders, hypokalemia, hypertension and congestive heart failure.