Pèi Lán (佩兰) — Eupatorium

On this page

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

1. Overview

Pèi Lán (佩兰) is the dried aerial parts of Eupatorium fortunei. It belongs to the category of Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness in the Chinese Materia Medica. Pèi Lán is the classical partner to Huo Xiang in formulas for damp obstructing the Middle Jiao — the two herbs share an aromatic, damp-transforming nature and are almost always used together.

I prescribe Pèi Lán as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Aromatically transforms Dampness, particularly in the Spleen
2. Releases summer-damp exterior patterns

Indications

1. Damp in the Middle Jiao with a characteristic sweet or greasy taste in the mouth, foggy head, poor appetite and a thick greasy tongue coat
2. Summer-damp colds with chills, fever, heaviness and abdominal fullness
3. Halitosis from damp in the Middle Jiao

4. Modern research

Eupatorium aerial parts contain a volatile oil rich in p-cymene, neryl acetate and various sesquiterpenes, along with coumarins and flavonoids. Pharmacological studies report mild antiviral, anti-inflammatory and gastrointestinal-motility-modulating effects. The herb is generally short-decocted to preserve the volatile oil.

5. Cautions and contraindications

Use with caution in Yin-deficient patterns where the drying aromatic action is inappropriate. Generally well tolerated at standard doses.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM).

6. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Pèi Lán as part of tailored herbal formulas for Spleen-damp patterns with the characteristic sweet greasy mouth taste, summer colds, and selected halitosis patterns. It is almost always paired with Huo Xiang.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available.

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