Achyranthes ( 牛膝 ) ...Chinese Herb...

Latin Plant Name

Radix Achyranthes Bidentatae

Pinyin Mandarin Name

Niu Xi

Common English Name


Part of Plant Used





Bitter, sour

Meridians Entered

Liver, Kidneys

Common Usages

Most often used in formulas that strengthen the back and knees (TCM: tonifies the Kidneys; reins in Liver Kmg; moves Blood and dampness);
for trauma, boils, painful or absent menses, and tendon and bone disruptions (TCM: for lower-body Blood stasis and stagnation);
for nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and toothaches (TCM: for deficient Yin with Blood heat);
for dizziness, headaches, or blurred vision (TCM: for deficient Yin with Blood heat and rising Liver Ytmg);
and may also be used for Kidney stones and painful urination with blood.

Traditional Usages and Functions

Invigorates Blood; expels congealed Blood; strengthens sinews and bones and benefits joints; clears damp heat in Lower Burner; induces downward movement of Blood.

Common Formulas Used In

Clematis and Stephania; Leonuris and Achyranthes; Tu-Huo and Eucommia.


Often used in a wine preparation for its tonifying actions. Cautions in Use: Do not use during pregnancy; with diarrhea from deficient Spleen; with excessive menstruation; or with leakage of sperm.


Leaving Achyranthes