Costus Root (Mu Xiang)
Overview
Mokhyang is an imported (唐) aromatic root, and the Donguibogam identifies it directly as "green wood fragrance," saying the good kind looks like a withered bone. Its function is stated generously: it treats qi problems of the heart and abdomen of every kind, including nine kinds of heart pain and long-standing cold-qi distension, and it stops diarrhea and sudden turmoil disorder. Two processing notes are unusually practical: when used to move qi it must not meet fire — ground fresh and taken — but to stop diarrhea and firm the large intestine it is wrapped in damp paper and baked.
In the Donguibogam
寶鑑
Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam
- Moves qi
- Eases chest and abdominal pain
- Stops diarrhea (when roasted)
- Helps other herbs travel
Traditional applications recorded in the classical text
- Distension and pain in the chest and abdomen
- Cold-type bloating
- Diarrhea with dysentery (roasted form)
Traditional preparation
To move qi, use raw and not exposed to fire: grind and take. To stop diarrhea and firm the large intestine, wrap in damp paper and bake.
This describes traditional preparation recorded in the classics, not a recommendation for use today. DonguiHub does not provide dosage guidance — consult a qualified professional before using any herb.
Cautions
Frequently asked questions
Why must it not meet fire in some uses?
The text says that to move qi it should be used without fire — ground raw — because heat changes its action; to stop diarrhea it is instead baked in damp paper.
What does "the nine kinds of heart pain" mean?
A classical grouping of pain in the chest and upper abdomen; the text lists it among the conditions mokhyang treats.
How does the text identify the good kind?
It says the good root looks like a dry bone.
Sources
- 『동의보감』 탕액편, 허준, 1613 (원문) — 한문 원문
- 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 원문 및 국역 자료 참조