Lilac Daphne Flower Bud Classic Formulas

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Drives out retained water and reduces edema - Yuan Hua is a drastic, strongly downward-moving toxic herb used historically for severe fluid retention, ascites, and water binding in the chest or flanks.
Expels phlegm and relieves cough and wheezing - it is used when stubborn phlegm, fluid, or cold obstruction in the Lung is severe enough to warrant a harsh attacking medicine.
Kills parasites and can be used externally - powdered or topical use appears in older practice for tinea-like lesions and other difficult superficial infestations.

Shi Zao Tang - the signature formula pairing Yuan Hua with Gan Sui and Da Ji to drive out water retention from the chest and hypochondrium.
Traditional severe phlegm-fluid formulas use Yuan Hua only when gentler Lung-resolving herbs are judged insufficient.
External parasite and tinea applications use Yuan Hua differently from internal dosing and still require caution because the herb is irritating and toxic.

Traditional herbology classifies Yuan Hua as bitter, acrid, warm, and toxic, entering the Lung, Kidney, and Large Intestine to expel water, dispel phlegm, and kill parasites.
Its classical role is reserved for excess fluid accumulation, not for ordinary swelling or mild cough.
Because it is one of the harsher toxic herbs in the materia medica, classical use assumes experienced supervision.