Tian Nan Xing (天南星) — Jack-in-the-Pulpit Rhizome

Tian Nan Xing is the classical Chinese herb for Wind-Phlegm — the pattern behind tremor, seizure, facial paralysis, tetanus and dizziness of a Phlegm-Wind type. Always used in its processed form (Zhi Nan Xing) or as Dan Nan Xing (bile-processed) to reduce its toxicity.

On this page

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

1. Overview

Tian Nan Xing (天南星) — Jack-in-the-Pulpit Rhizome (Arisaema erubescens) — is a Chinese herb in the Transform Phlegm (cold and Wind-phlegm) 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

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Transforms Cold-Phlegm and dispels Wind
2. Relieves spasms and stops convulsions
3. Reduces swelling and pain (external)

Indications

1. Wind-Phlegm with seizure or convulsion
2. Facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy) — Wind-Phlegm pattern
3. Tetanus (classical use)
4. Cough with copious white sticky phlegm
5. External use for tumours and swellings

4. Dosage

3–9g (of processed Zhi Nan Xing) in decoction

5. Cautions and incompatibilities

1. Raw Nan Xing is toxic — only processed forms used internally
2. Contraindicated in pregnancy
3. Not for Yin-deficient or Blood-deficient dryness

6. Key formulas

• Er Chen Tang (as Dan Nan Xing)
• Di Tan Tang

7. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Tian Nan Xing 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.