Immune System Disorders/ Wu Jia Pi

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Wu Jia Pi is the Chinese name for the bark of the root of

Acanthopanacis.

 

The herb's primary classification is an Herb that Dispels Wind

Dampness. It also has some Qi tonic and Yang tonic properties as

well as warming properties; hence, the caution about using it in

cases of Yin Deficiency with Heat.

 

Its taste is acrid and bitter; it's thermal energy is warm. It

enters the Kidney and Liver channels.

 

Its actions and indications include:

 

" Dispels wind-dampness and strengthens the sinews and bones; for

chronic wind-cold-damp painful obstruction " (arthritis due to wind-

cold-dampness) " when chronic deficiency of the Liver and Kidneys

generates weak or soft sinews and bones. This herb is especially

useful when the smooth flow of qi and blood is obstructed. It is

particularly suitable for treating the elderly, and for

developmental delays in the motor functions of children.

 

" Transforms dampness and reduces swelling; for urinary difficulty,

edema, and damp-cold leg qi. "

 

It's contraindicated or use with caution in cases of Yin Deficiency

with Heat. (Chinese Materia Medica, Revised Edition, Dan Bensky and

Andrew Gamble, pp. 161-162.)

 

When the Chinese use TCM to treat Western-defined medical

conditions, they still treat according to the TCM imbalances that

are present. They would not use Wu Jia Pi to treat HSV Type II

UNLESS there were signs and symptoms of Wind-Dampness. They would

mix the Wu Jia Pia with Yin tonic herbs and herbs to get rid of Heat

if there are signs and symptoms of Yin Deficiency with Heat in

addition to Wind-Damp.

 

Consider for example, skin lesions. Are the lesions dry and scaly?

If they are, the underlying TCM imbalance may be one of Drnyess, and

Wu Jia Pi would make this symptom worse as it has a drying effect.

On the other hand, if the lesions are moist and " weepy " , this may be

due to Dampness. If it is Dampness and the person also suffers from

Wind invasion and Cold, then Wu Jia Pi definitely is a possible

treatment as this herb dispels Wind-Cold-Dampness.

 

To the Chinese, it's not enough that Siberian Ginseng has showed

promise in treating HSV Type II and many people suffering from

this. They want to know exactly when it is indicated and exactly

who it will help.