Gastrodia Rhizome

천마 (天麻) · Gastrodia elata Blume

Wind-extinguishing, tremor-calming herb Neutral (some sources: cold) Pungent (some sources: sweet) Liver

NatureNeutral (some sources: cold)

TastePungent (some sources: sweet)

MeridiansLiver

Part usedRhizome (tuber)

FamilyOrchidaceae

CategoryWind-extinguishing, tremor-calming herb

Find by concern: Dizziness Headache Muscle cramps

Overview

Gastrodia is a leafless orchid that lives off fungal partners rather than photosynthesis, and the Donguibogam already knew it by its plant's other name, jeokjeon ("red arrow"), describing the tuber's shape as resembling a cucumber with a dozen or more growing together. Later physicians singled it out as unmatched for dizziness of any deficiency origin.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性平一云寒, 味辛一云甘, 無毒. 主諸風濕痺, 四肢拘攣, 小兒風癎驚氣. 治眩暈風癎, 語言蹇澁, 多驚失志. 强筋骨, 利腰膝.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationIts nature is neutral (some say cold), its taste pungent (some say sweet), and it is non-toxic. It mainly treats various wind-damp painful obstruction, limb spasm and contracture, and childhood wind convulsions with fright qi. It treats dizziness and vertigo, wind convulsions, halting speech, and frequent fright with loss of composure. It strengthens the sinews and bones, and benefits the lower back and knees.

Traditional functions

Extinguishes internal wind, stops tremor
Calms dizziness and vertigo
Relieves spasm and numbness
Strengthens sinews and bones

Traditional applications

Dizziness or vertigo of various origins
Headache with heaviness
Limb spasm or cramping
Weak lower back and knees

Traditional preparation

Decoction 4–12g.

Cautions

Caution: Neurological symptoms like recurring dizziness or vertigo should be medically evaluated rather than self-treated. Consult a professional.

Frequently asked questions

Why does gastrodia have no leaves?

It is a mycoheterotrophic orchid — instead of photosynthesizing, it draws nutrients through a fungal partner, which is why the plant lacks green leaves. Only its flowering stalk, once called "red arrow," emerges above ground.

What is gastrodia's signature traditional use?

Dizziness and vertigo — later physicians quoted in the Donguibogam single it out as unmatched for treating dizziness stemming from various forms of deficiency.

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.