Downward-Draining Herbs (Intro)

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Which of the following statements about Gan Sui (kansui radix) is TRUE?

Gan Sui gently moistens the Large Intestine, making it suitable for deficient patients.
Gan Sui treats constipation due to coldness.
Gan Sui purges heat accumulation in the Large Intestine to relieve constipation.
Gan Sui drains water downward to treat severe fluid accumulation in the chest and abdomen. This is a violent, cathartic herb that causes one to pass water anally.

Harsh expellants are not used for constipation; they are used to drive out pathgenic water through the Large Intestine.

Source: Bensky, D. (2004). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press. pp. 251 [Q556]