Fang Feng-Radix Saposhnikoviae

Fang Feng 防风, the root of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk., is a versatile exterior-releasing herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) valued for dispelling wind, alleviating pain, and resolving dampness. Known as the “moist wind herb,” it releases the exterior without causing excessive dryness, making it suitable for both wind-cold and wind-heat patterns depending on combinations.

Traditional applications described for educational purposes. Professional guidance recommended for therapeutic use.

Key Benefits
Dispels Wind & Releases the Exterior（祛风解表） – Treats common cold, headache, and body aches.
Alleviates Pain（止痛） – Effective for wind-cold-damp arthralgia, especially with migratory pain.
Relieves Spasms（解痉） – Used for tetanus, tremors, and convulsions due to wind.
Resolves Dampness（胜湿止泻） – Helps in diarrhea from wind-damp affecting the spleen.

Dosage & Administration
Decoction: 4.5–9 g.
For Exterior Wind: Combined with Jing Jie and Qiang Huo.
For Wind-Damp Pain: Used with Du Huo and Sang Ji Sheng.
For Spasms: Combined with Gou Teng and Tian Ma.

Characteristics
Taste: Pungent, sweet.
Nature: Slightly warm.

Safety Notes
Contraindicated in yin deficiency with heat signs.
Use with caution in blood deficiency presenting with spasms.