Heartleaf Houttuynia — Classic Formulas
Yu Xing Cao · Herba Houttuyniae
Primary Actions
- Clears Heat and resolves toxicity (especially Lung heat-toxicity)
- Drains Lung abscess and expels pus
- Clears Damp-Heat and promotes urination
- Reduces swelling and relieves inflammatory pain
Classic Formulas
- Wei Jing Tang (苇茎汤) — classic formula for Lung abscess; Yu Xing Cao added in modern modifications to strengthen heat-clearing and pus-expelling action
- Used as principal herb in numerous modern patent formulas for pneumonia, bronchitis, and upper respiratory infections
Classical Text References
- Ben Cao Jing Shu (Qing dynasty): 'Yu Xing Cao clears the Lung heat, dissipates toxicity, and discharges pus — the essential herb for heat abscess of the Lung'
- Named for its distinctive fishy odour (鱼腥 = fishy smell); the volatile compound houttuynin (decanoylacetaldehyde) is responsible and degrades on prolonged cooking — add late in decoction or use fresh