Pao Zhi - Methods of Preparation
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Chuan Xiong (chuanxiong rhizoma) belongs to the category Herbs that Invigorate Blood. It is especially useful for treating headache and stopping pain. In order to enhance Chuan Xiong's ability to invigorate blood and stop pain, how should it be prepared?
Even in western medicine, alcohol is said to act as a blood thinner. In TCM, alcohol can invigorate blood, stop pain, and move upwards towards the head. Herbs prepared with alcohol (usually yellow rice wine) have an enhanced ability to invigorate blood and stop pain.
Source: Bensky, D. (2004). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press. pp. 601 [Q514]