Move qi
Xiang Fu
香附
Cyperus rhizome
Cyperus rotundus
The qi herb most often aimed at the liver and the menstrual cycle.
Not for self-dosing. This page is not a formula, not a strength, and not a substitute for a licensed herbalist or physician.
Category
Neutral · Acrid, Bitter, Sweet
Meridians entered
Traditional uses
Moves liver qi without being very hot or very cold, which is why it is everywhere in cycle formulas. Texts say it regulates menstruation because it moves qi, and qi leads blood. That is a theory, not a promise about pain or fertility.
Common pairings
- Chai Hu 柴胡
Two liver-qi herbs. Chai Hu lifts and vents, Xiang Fu is more about the lower abdomen and the cycle.
- Dang Gui 当归
Qi and blood together, a standard women’s-health study pair.
Cautions
Not for self-dosing. Care in pregnancy because it moves. Not for heavy bleeding you have not had checked.
Points with a similar aim
Yellow Emperor
Arch point that opens the Chong vessel.
Three Yin Intersection
Inner-leg crossing of three yin channels. Not a pregnancy self-care point.
Traditionally avoided in pregnancy
Mound of Ruins
Front of the outer ankle, Gallbladder source point.
Use caution
Foot Governor of Tears
Top of the foot, opening point of the Dai vessel.
Great Surge
Top-of-foot source point for stuck qi, stress, and headache.
Use caution
Cycle Gate
Front-mu of the Liver, in the rib space. Gentle or not at all.
Use caution
Palace of the Child
Extra point beside the low midline. Pregnancy: do not use.
Traditionally avoided in pregnancy