Sang Zhi (桑枝) — Mulberry Twig
Sang Zhi — mulberry twig — is a mild, neutral Chinese herb specifically directed at Wind-Damp Bi in the upper limbs and shoulders. Because it is neutral in temperature and not drying, it can be used long-term in chronic joint conditions.
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Dosage
- Cautions and incompatibilities
- Key formulas
- Treatment at my clinic
1. Overview
Sang Zhi (桑枝) — Mulberry Twig (Morus alba (twig)) — is a Chinese herb in the Dispel Wind-Damp Bi category. I prescribe it as part of bespoke pharmaceutical-grade granule formulas from Sun Ten in Taiwan at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire and via online herbal consultations.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Sang Zhi |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 桑枝 |
| Latin name | Morus alba (twig) |
| English name | Mulberry Twig |
| Nature | Neutral |
| Flavour | Bitter |
| Channels entered | Liver |
| Category | Dispel Wind-Damp Bi |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Dispels Wind-Damp
- Frees the collaterals in the upper limbs
- Reduces oedema
Indications
- Wind-Damp Bi in shoulder and arm
- Chronic upper-limb joint pain
- Numbness in the fingers
- Mild oedema
4. Dosage
9–30g
5. Cautions and incompatibilities
- Reduce dose in weak patients
6. Key formulas
Sang Zhi is used in a range of bespoke prescriptions rather than a fixed classical formula in modern practice. Consult a qualified TCM herbalist for individual prescription.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Sang Zhi where its indications and TCM pattern match the patient’s presentation, always as part of a tailored formula. Return to the Chinese herbs directory or the Chinese herbal medicine main page.
