Qián Hú (前胡) — Peucedanum Root
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Modern research
- Cautions and contraindications
- 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
| Pinyin name | Qián Hú |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 前胡 |
| Latin name | Peucedanum praeruptorum |
| English name | Peucedanum root / Hogfennel |
| Nature | Slightly cold |
| Flavour | Bitter, acrid |
| Channels entered | Lung |
| Category | Cool-transforming Phlegm-Heat herbs |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Descends Lung Qi and transforms Phlegm-Heat
- Releases the exterior and dispels Wind-Heat
Indications
- Cough with thick yellow phlegm and chest oppression from Phlegm-Heat
- Wind-Heat invasion with cough, fever, headache and thick sputum
- 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. Cautions and contraindications
Contraindicated in cough from Yin deficiency without Phlegm and in patients with persistent loose stools from Spleen-Yang deficiency.
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 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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