Bitter, acrid, cold, and somewhat toxic, it is the nature of Pharbitidis Semen (qian niu zi) to direct downward. Entering the Lung channel, it mobilizes the qi pathways and unblocks the three burners to expel phlegm and drive out thin mucus. Entering the Large Intestine channel, it mobilizes the rectum to drain downward and unblock constipation, eliminate accumulation, and kill parasites. Entering the Kidney channel, it mobilizes the water pathways, facilitating urination. In this manner, it facilitates both the bowels and urine, unblocking both of the lower orifices. It addresses both the upper source of the water pathway, the Lungs, and also the lower water organ, the Kidneys. This is the basis for its potent ability to drive out all four types of pathogenic fluids: phlegm, thin mucus, dampness, and water. It is accordingly, most often used for edema with sensations of distention and fullness, damp-heat and qi stasis, cough, rebellious qi, and wheezing, with constipation and urinary difficulty. It can also be used for abdominal pain from intestinal parasites, indigestion, and poor appetite. -- Bensky: Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 3rd ed.

100% Bai Chou (Qian Niu Zi) - Pharbitidis Semen