Acanthopanacis Giraldii Cortex
Aliases：Chuān Jiā Pí (literally "Sichuan Acanthopanax Bark"), Cì Jiā Pí (literally "Spiny Acanthopanax Bark"), Wǔ Zhuǎ Cì (literally "Five‑Clawed Thorn" — referring to the palmate leaves and thorny stems), and Shǔ Wǔ Jiā (literally "Sichuan Five‑Plus" — another name indicating its origin and similarity to Acanthopanax). These are all alternative names for 红毛五加皮 (Hóng Máo Wǔ Jiā Pí)， i.e., the stem bark or root bark of Acanthopanax giraldii Harms.
Hóngmáo Wǔjiāpí (Red‑Hairy Acanthopanax Bark) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the stem bark or root bark of Acanthopanax giraldii Harms, a plant belonging to the family Araliaceae.
Efficacy & Actions
Dispels wind‑dampness, strengthens sinews and bones, promotes blood circulation, and promotes diuresis.
Indications
It is mainly used for wind‑cold‑dampness bi‑impediment, weakness and flaccidity of sinews and bones, traumatic injuries, and edema due to physical weakness, etc.
Modern Pharmacology
Anti‑inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. Regulatory effects on the cardiovascular system. Enhancing immunity and anti‑fatigue effects. Antiviral and antitumor effects. Hepatoprotective and anti‑radiation effects, etc.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: decoct in water, the usual dosage is 3–15 g; it may also be steeped in wine for oral use. For topical application: grind an appropriate amount into powder and apply to the affected area with a suitable base.
Contraindications
Use with caution in patients with Yin deficiency and fire hyperactivity.
Medicinal Parts
Stem bark or root bark.
Selection & Storage
Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated place to effectively protect against moisture, insects, and mold.
