In TCM, xuán shēn (Figwort root; 玄参) is slightly cold in nature and has Yin-nourishing benefits on the kidneys, lungs and stomach. Yin represents the energy that is responsible for moistening and cooling bodily functions. Xuan shen protects the Yin and fluids from damage due to heat and toxicity. It is commonly used to clear deep-lying heat in the blood level, purge fire, and relieve toxicity.

Benefits:
● Clears heat in the blood, manifesting as fever aggravated in the night, agitation, purplish tongue, and thirst
● Alleviates fever conditions with constipation
● Relieves steaming bone syndrome (akin to the feeling of heat sensation coming from the bones)
● Fights inflammation and relieves swelling
● Soothes hoarseness and swollen sore throat
● Moistens dry throat and lungs
● Soothes red and painful swollen eyes

Contraindications:
Avoid use with Lí lú (藜芦). Not recommended for individuals with deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach, manifesting as poor appetite, loose stools, etc. 

Ingredients:
Xuán shēn (Figwort root; 玄参)

Origin:
Hebei, China

Dosage:
10g to 15g

Storage:
Best kept refrigerated

How to soothe a swollen and sore throat:
Rinse herbs before use. Put 10g Honeysuckle (jīn yín huā; 金银花), 9g Chrysanthemum Buds (tāi jú; 胎菊), 10g xuán shēn (玄参), 10g mài dōng (麦冬), and 3g gān cǎo (Liquorice Root; 甘草) into a pot. Add sufficient water to cover the herbs. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer under low heat for 20 minutes. Add rock sugar or honey to taste. Serve it warm. (Serving size: 1 to 2)

How to make a Yin-nourishing tea:
Add 10g mài dōng (麦冬), 10g xuán shēn (玄参), 5g wū méi (乌梅), and 3g gān cǎo (甘草) into a pot. Add sufficient water to cover the herbs. Bring to a boil and let it simmer under low heat for 20 minutes. Add rock sugar or honey to taste. Serve it warm. This healthy tea aids in moistening the lungs to alleviate dry cough and sore throat. (Serving size: 1 to 2) 

In TCM, 'heatiness' suggests an excess of Yang energy or deficiency of Yin. Apart from the hot weather, poor diet and lifestyle can also cause 'heatiness' to manifest in the body. For instance, frequently staying up late, overworking without adequate rest, consuming excessive 'heaty' foods, etc.

Examples of 'heaty' foods:
● Deep-fried, greasy or spicy foods
● Chicken, beef, or lamb meats
● Fruits such as durian, mango, longan, or lychee
● Alcohol, coffee, red tea, or chocolate beverages

Some signs of 'heatiness' or Yin deficiency include:
● Warm, feverish palms and soles
● Sore throat, fever, or ulcers in the mouth
● Hard and dry stools or constipation
● Dark or yellow urine
● Dry or bloodshot eyes
● Skin issues such as acne, eczema, and hives
● Feelings of restlessness, irritability, vexation, agitation, or anxiety
● Dream-disturbed sleep or insomnia
● Dry cough or cough with thick yellow phlegm

Note:
The information above serves as a general guide only. Please consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.