Huang Lian (Coptis Root)

Huang Lian (Coptis Root)

Coptis chinensis Franch; Coptidis Rhizoma

The Huang Lian herb, or Coptis Root, is very important for clearing heat and drying dampness and is used clinically as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It is very bitter, very cooling, and very drying. It is the chief herb in a number of classical formulas for this purpose; it also has utility in clearing Liver fire.

Huang Lian is bitter and cold, and enters the Heart, Liver, and Stomach meridians.

Properties

Bitter, cold

Channels Entered

Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine