Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Rhapontici Radix |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 漏蘆 · Lou Lu |
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| Medicinal Part | Roots and rhizomes |
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| Efficacy Category | Heat-clearing |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried root of Rhaponticum uniflorum (L.) DC.(Asteraceae) |
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| Nature & Flavour | Bitter; Cold |
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| Channels Entered | Stomach |
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What Is Lou Lu?
Lou Lu (Common Swisscentaury Root) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Liaoning, Hebei, Shanxi.
Nature & Flavour: Bitter; Cold
Channels Entered: Stomach
Lou Lu: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Rhapontici Radix
Botanical Origin
The dried root of Rhaponticum uniflorum (L.) DC.(Asteraceae)
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Liaoning, Hebei, Shanxi.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material is thick, brownish-black, not easily broken.
Macroscopic Features
Conical or flat lumps, often twisted, uneven length, 1~2.5cm diameter. Externally dark brown, grayish-brown or black-brown, rough, with longitudinal grooves and rhomboid net-like cracks. Outer skin is easily to peel off, root head is enlarged, with remnants of stem and scale-like leaf base, apex has grayish-white fuzz. Light, brittle texture, easily broken, fractured surface is uneven, grayish-yellow, with cracks; center has a star-like crack, grayish-black or brownish-black. Distinctive odor, slightly bitter taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Bitter; ColdStomach
Traditional Functions
Clears heat and resolves toxin, dissipates abscess, promotes lactation, relaxes sinews and unblocks vessels.
How Lou Lu Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Lou Lu is classified among the Heat-clearing herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
