Pinellia Rhizome

반하 (半夏) · Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Makino

Phlegm-resolving herb Warm when processed (cold-natured raw) Pungent Spleen, Stomach, Lung

NatureWarm when processed (cold-natured raw)

TastePungent

MeridiansSpleen, Stomach, Lung

Part usedProcessed rhizome (never used raw)

FamilyAraceae

CategoryPhlegm-resolving herb

Find by concern: Nausea Cough Indigestion

Overview

Pinellia is one of the most important phlegm-resolving herbs in Korean tradition, but the Donguibogam is explicit that it carries toxicity in its raw form and must always be processed before use. Properly prepared, it is a cornerstone of formulas for cough, nausea, and phlegm congestion.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性平生微寒熟溫, 味辛, 有毒. 主傷寒寒熱, 消心腹痰熱滿結, 咳嗽上氣, 消痰涎, 開胃健脾, 止嘔吐.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationFresh it is slightly cold, prepared it is warm; its taste is pungent, and it has toxicity. It treats cold-damage cold-and-heat, resolves phlegm-heat fullness and binding in the chest and abdomen, treats cough with rising qi, and dissolves phlegm; it opens the appetite, strengthens the spleen, and stops vomiting.

Traditional functions

Dries dampness, resolves phlegm
Directs rebellious qi downward, stops vomiting
Softens hard masses, disperses binding
Strengthens the spleen and stomach

Traditional applications

Cough with copious phlegm
Nausea and vomiting
Chest and epigastric fullness
Morning sickness (under professional guidance only)

Traditional preparation

Decoction 4–10g, processed form only; central to Yijin-tang alongside tangerine peel and poria.

Cautions

Caution: Raw Pinellia is toxic and must never be used unprocessed — only properly processed (法製) forms are used medicinally. Contraindicated in pregnancy, dry cough from yin-deficiency, and bleeding or hemoptysis. Professional guidance is essential.

Frequently asked questions

Why is raw Pinellia dangerous?

The Donguibogam itself notes Pinellia 'has toxicity' in its raw state — it can irritate the throat and mouth severely. Traditional processing (soaking, boiling with ginger juice, and drying) removes this toxicity, which is why only processed Pinellia is ever used medicinally.

Is Pinellia safe in pregnancy?

No — it is traditionally contraindicated in pregnancy due to its descending, phlegm-moving action. Any use during pregnancy requires direct professional supervision.

Sources

동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술 (LEGAL-001)

DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.