Prickly Ash

(S) Tumburu

(C) Hua jiao

Part Used: seed, bark

Energetics: pungent, bitter/heating/pungent VK- P+

Tissues: plasma, blood, muscles

Systems: digestive, circulatory

Actions: stimulant, carminative, alterative, antiseptic, anthelmintic, analgesic

Indications: weak digestion, cold abdominal pain, chronic chill, lumbago, chronic arthritis and rheumatism, skin diseases, worms, yeast infections

Precautions: high Pitta, acute inflammatory conditions of the g.i. tract, pregnancy (may promote miscarriage)

Preparation: infusion, decoction, medicated oil, powder (250 to 500 mg), capsules

PRICKLY ASH is a powerful toxin-destroying herb (Ama-pachana). It destroys toxins in the g.i. tract, including worms, and is good for treating yeast infections, candida, either in the g.i. tract or in the blood. It is particularly good for sama Vata and arthritic conditions. It has a warming, stimulating and purifying influence on the blood and increases peripheral circulation. It relieves abdominal pain, colic and cramps.

As an antirheumatic agent, it works well with juniper berries or eucalyptus. As a digestive agent, it works well with dry ginger. For yeast infections where there is inflammation, it can be combined with bitter herbs like golden seal. For obstinate sores and chronic skin conditions, it can be used with myrrh. It can be prepared as a medicated oil in sesame oil for an antiarthritic massage oil.