Huò Xiāng (霍香) — Agastache / Patchouli

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Key formulas
5. Modern research
6. Cautions and contraindications
7. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Huò Xiāng (霍香) is the aerial parts of Pogostemon cablin (patchouli, Guǎng Huò Xiāng) or Agastache rugosa (Korean mint), both used interchangeably in modern TCM. It belongs to the category of Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness and is one of the most useful herbs for damp-stagnation in the Middle Jiao, summer-damp colds and digestive upset with nausea.

I prescribe Huò Xiāng as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan — independently tested to the highest international quality and safety standards. Herbs are never prescribed individually outside a properly balanced formula; they are always combined with other herbs selected to match the patient’s individual TCM pattern. Online consultations are available for patients who cannot attend my clinic in person.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Aromatically transforms Dampness and revives the Spleen
2. Harmonises the Middle Jiao and stops vomiting
3. Releases the Exterior in summer Damp-Cold patterns

Indications

1. Damp-stagnation in the Middle Jiao with epigastric fullness, poor appetite, nausea and a heavy, foggy head
2. Summer colds with chills, fever, headache, oppression in the chest and a thick greasy tongue coat
3. Morning sickness in pregnancy from Stomach disharmony
4. Acute gastroenteritis with vomiting and watery diarrhoea
5. Bad breath and tongue coat from Damp in the Middle

4. Key formulas containing Huò Xiāng

Huò Xiāng is the chief herb in Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San (Agastache Powder to Rectify the Qi), one of the most widely used formulas for summer damp and acute digestive complaints. It is also commonly combined with Pei Lan, Sha Ren and Bai Zhu in Spleen-damp patterns.

5. Modern research

The essential oil of patchouli contains patchoulol, α- and β-patchoulene, pogostone and a number of sesquiterpenes. Studies report antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori and several enteric pathogens, anti-inflammatory and antiemetic effects, and modulation of gastrointestinal motility. Pogostone has been investigated for activity against influenza viruses and intestinal infections, consistent with the traditional use in summer damp colds.

6. Cautions and contraindications

Use with caution in Yin-deficient patterns with Heat signs, as the warming aromatic action may aggravate dryness. Do not prolong the decoction; the volatile oils are easily lost with extended boiling.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). Never self-prescribe or self-administer Chinese herbs without professional guidance. Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a member of the RCHM and the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience.

7. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Huò Xiāng as part of tailored herbal formulas for digestive complaints with Dampness, nausea and vomiting (including morning sickness), summer colds with gastroenteritis, and Spleen-damp constitutional patterns. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment and adjusted throughout treatment as the pattern responds.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available for patients throughout the UK and internationally, with herbs dispensed by post. Visit the prices page for consultation fees.

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Prefer to be treated from home? Chinese herbal medicine online consultations are available throughout the UK and worldwide. After a full video consultation, Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto formulates a bespoke herbal prescription and posts your Chinese herbs directly to your door.