Jie Geng-Platycodon Root (Platycodi Radix)

Jie Geng 桔梗, derived from the root of Platycodon grandiflorus, is a key herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known as the "guide herb" for the upper body. Its unique ability to direct other herbs' actions upward while resolving phlegm makes it indispensable for respiratory conditions.

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

Key Benefits
Disperses Lung Qi (宣肺利咽) – Relieves cough, wheezing, and sore throat.
Expels Phlegm (祛痰排脓) – Helps expel thick phlegm and lung abscesses.
Directs Herbs Upward (载药上行) – Enhances efficacy of other herbs in upper body formulas.
Anti-inflammatory – Modern research supports throat and sinus relief.

Dosage & Administration
Decoction: 3–9g (add early for full boiling).
Acute Cases: Up to 12g for severe phlegm congestion.
Classic Formulas:
Sang Ju Yin (桑菊饮) – For wind-heat cough.
Xing Su San (杏苏散) – For wind-cold with phlegm.

Characteristics
Taste: Bitter, pungent with slight sweetness.
Nature: Neutral (mild cooling tendency).

Safety Notes
May cause nausea in sensitive individuals at high doses.
Contraindicated in hemoptysis (coughing blood).
Use cautiously with antiemetic medications.