Gromwell Root
자초 (紫草) · Lithospermum erythrorhizon Siebold & Zucc.
Heat-clearing, blood-cooling, toxin-resolving herb
Cold (some sources: neutral)
Bitter (some sources: sweet)
Heart, Liver
NatureCold (some sources: neutral)
TasteBitter (some sources: sweet)
MeridiansHeart, Liver
Part usedRoot
FamilyBoraginaceae
CategoryHeat-clearing, blood-cooling, toxin-resolving herb
Find by concern: Bloating
Overview
Gromwell's Korean name, jichi, is still recognized today mainly through its use as a purple dye and as the base of a traditional skin ointment (jacho-gobyak). The Donguibogam records exactly this dual identity — noting it is the same root used to dye things purple, alongside its medicinal use for jaundice-type swelling and children's pox rash.
In the Donguibogam
東醫
寶鑑
寶鑑
性寒一云平, 味苦一云甘, 無毒. 主五疸. 通水道, 腹腫脹滿. 療惡瘡, 瘑癬, 面皶, 及小兒痘瘡.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is cold (some say neutral), its taste bitter (some say sweet), and it is non-toxic. It mainly treats the five types of jaundice. It unblocks the water passages and treats abdominal swelling and distension. It heals malign sores, ringworm, facial acne, and children's pox rash.
Traditional functions
- Cools the blood
- Resolves toxin
- Promotes rash eruption
- Unblocks urination
Traditional applications
- Jaundice-type swelling
- Abdominal bloating
- Sores and skin eruptions
- Slow-erupting childhood rash (classical use)
Traditional preparation
Decoction 4–12g; also prepared as a topical oil or ointment.
Cautions
Caution: Cold in nature; not suited to loose stool or a cold, weak digestion. Today used mainly in topical skin preparations. Consult a professional.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same root used for purple dye and jacho ointment?
Yes — the Donguibogam explicitly identifies it as the root used to dye things purple, alongside recording its medicinal uses for jaundice-type swelling and skin conditions.
What is gromwell's main traditional use?
Traditionally, treating jaundice and abdominal swelling, and helping childhood pox rash erupt fully; today it survives mainly in topical skin preparations.
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.