Dogbane (Luo Bu Ma)

羅布麻
Dogbane (Luobuma)

Pharmaceutical Name: Folium Apocyni veneti

Botanical Name: Apocynum venetum L.

Common Name: Dogbane leaf

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used: The leaves or whole plant are gathered in summer, dried in the sun and then cut into pieces.

Natural Properties & Taste: Tasteless, astringent and slightly cold

Meridians: Liver

Therapeutic Effects:
1. To pacify the liver and clear heat.

2. To promote urination.

Indications:
1. Hyperactivity of liver yang manifested as headache, vertigo, dizziness, irritability and insomnia. Dogbane (Luobuma) is used with Prunella spike (Xiakucao), Uncaria stem (Gouteng) and Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua). Also, Dogbane (Luobuma) can be used alone to make tea.

2. Dysuria and edema. Dogbane (Luobuma) can be used alone or with other herbs to promote urination.

Dosage: 3-10 g