Banzhilian(Herba Scutellariae Barbatae)

A true heat clearing herb, this Barbed Skullcap is now used in many modern Chinese formulas against cancer. The western use of Skullcaps are thought of mostly as a nerve relaxing herb(which it does do a very good job at) but many people have failed to note it’s nickname often found next to it in many American herbals, “Mad Dog Weed.” this is because of an early American success(Early 1800s-Dr. Van Derver) with it being used against the rabies virus in both animals and man.

It turns out that many varieties of Skullcap around the world have a strong anti-viral action. It also lowers fever quite effectively and can bring down seriously high blood pressure very quickly(in high doses).

This Chinese Prunella Vulgaris is much more potent than its American cousin(the flower spikes are 5-6 times longer for one thing). This is a strong heat clearing herb used to relieve fevers, headache, and high blood pressure. It is known for being highly effective in liver problems associated with jaundice and has been shown to work well against many forms of herpes. 

International acupuncture education