Qián Hú (前胡) — Peucedanum Root

On this page

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

1. Overview

Qián Hú (前胡) is the dried root of Peucedanum praeruptorum. It belongs to the category of Cool-transforming Phlegm-Heat herbs in the Chinese Materia Medica and is used in Chinese herbal medicine to descend Lung Qi, dispel Wind-Heat and clear Phlegm-Heat from the chest.

I prescribe Qián Hú 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. Descends Lung Qi and transforms Phlegm-Heat
2. Releases the exterior and dispels Wind-Heat

Indications

1. Cough with thick yellow phlegm and chest oppression from Phlegm-Heat
2. Wind-Heat invasion with cough, fever, headache and thick sputum
3. Asthma and wheeze with rebellious Lung Qi and Phlegm-Heat

4. Modern research

Peucedanum contains coumarins (praeruptorin A, B, C, D), essential oil and flavonoids. Studies report calcium-channel blocking activity, antispasmodic effects on bronchial smooth muscle, mild antitussive and expectorant action, and antiplatelet activity. Praeruptorin A is under investigation for cardiovascular indications.

5. Incompatibilities

Qián Hú (前胡) Peucedanum Root is not listed in either of the two classical incompatibility texts — Shi Ba Fan (Eighteen Antagonisms) or Shi Jiu Wei (Nineteen Mutual Inhibitions). As with every Chinese herb it should be prescribed only as part of a balanced formula by a registered Chinese herbalist (RCHM), who will check for interactions with any other herbs and prescription medications you are taking.

6. Cautions and contraindications

Contraindicated in cough from Yin deficiency without Phlegm and in patients with persistent loose stools from Spleen-Yang deficiency.

Pattern contraindications

Contraindicated in Cold patterns and Spleen Yang deficiency. Some (e.g. Gua Lou family) have mild laxative effect — caution in chronic diarrhoea.

Modern drug interactions

Generally well tolerated. Tell your GP if on regular medication.

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

7. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Qián Hú as part of tailored herbal formulas for productive cough with chest tightness, wheezing during Wind-Heat colds, and acute bronchitis with stuck Phlegm-Heat. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment.

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

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