Da+Ji+(Knoxiae+Root)

[[image:hong_da_ji.jpg width="169" height="415" align="right"]]Hong Da Ji (Knoxiae root) ["Big Red Thistle"]
Category: Drain Downward (Harsh Expellant) Nature: cold, toxic Flavors: bitter and acrid Channels entered: LU, KI, LI, SP

Functions: strongly eliminate harmful body fluid by purging stool’ relieve swelling to reduce nodes. Indications: 1. edema, **ascites, and hydrothorax** due to retention of harmful fluid. 2. Lumps or **nodes due to phlegm and fire**, carbuncles and boils due to heat and toxin.

Dosage: 1.5-3g in decoction; 1g in powder form Contraindications: pregnancy and for patients with weak body constitutions.
 * Do not combine with gan cao (licorice).**