Ligusticum wallichii / Chuan Xiong

Description

【Benefits】

In traditional Chinese medicine, Ligusticum wallichii (Chuan Xiong) is renowned for its effects of
promoting blood circulation to regulate qi, dispelling wind to relieve pain. It effectively alleviates symptoms like blood stasis and qi stagnation-induced chest tightness and abdominal pain, irregular menstruation and dysmenorrhea, headache caused by wind-cold or wind-heat, and joint pain from wind-damp obstruction. From a modern research perspective, it contains bioactive components such as ligustrazine, volatile oils (ligustilide), and flavonoids, which have blood vessel-dilating, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and blood circulation-improving effects, helping to relieve pain and regulate vascular health.

【Nicknames】

Xiong Qiong, Fu Xiong (Fu Chuan Xiong), Jing Xiong (Jing Chuan Xiong), Xi Xiong (West Chuan Xiong), Chuan Qiong, Da Xiong (Large Chuan Xiong)

【Properties and Tastes】

Tastes pungent; warm in nature; enters the Liver, Gallbladder, and Pericardium meridians

【Medicinal Components & Effects】

Ligusticum wallichii is rich in active components.
Ligustrazine is the key, exerting blood vessel-dilating and blood circulation-improving effects by relaxing vascular smooth muscle and inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Volatile oils (main component: ligustilide) have strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, relieving headache and joint pain.
Flavonoids contribute to antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities, protecting vascular endothelium. These components work together to promote blood circulation, regulate qi, dispel wind, and maintain the body’s vascular and motor system health.

【Storage Methods】

• Store in a
  cool, dry, and well-ventilated place (temperature 10–15℃, humidity below 60%), away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent mold, insect infestation, and loss of volatile oils.
• Use airtight containers like glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags. After opening, seal promptly to avoid volatilization of active components and moisture absorption.
• Avoid storing with odorous substances to prevent flavor tainting. Regularly check for mold, softening, or unusual odor—discard immediately if any spoilage is found.