Hogweed Root
전호 (前胡) · Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn
Phlegm-resolving herb
Slightly cold
Sweet, pungent
Lung
NatureSlightly cold
TasteSweet, pungent
MeridiansLung
Part usedRoot
FamilyApiaceae
CategoryPhlegm-resolving herb
Overview
Hogweed root is a plain, common root the Donguibogam describes in the shortest possible terms — found everywhere, dug in spring or autumn, simply dried — yet credited with a broad reach across labor-taxation, phlegm-filled chest fullness, and a sluggish appetite.
In the Donguibogam
東醫
寶鑑
寶鑑
性微寒, 味甘辛, 無毒. 治一切勞, 下一切氣, 療痰滿胸脇, 中痞, 心腹結氣, 去痰實, 下氣止嗽, 開胃下食.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is slightly cold, its taste sweet and pungent, and it is non-toxic. It treats all manner of labor-taxation, brings down all manner of qi, treats phlegm-filled chest and rib fullness, epigastric focal distension, and bound qi in the chest and abdomen. It removes phlegm accumulation, brings down qi and stops coughing, and opens the appetite to aid eating.
Traditional functions
- Descends qi
- Resolves phlegm
- Relieves chest and rib fullness
- Opens the appetite
Traditional applications
- Phlegm-filled chest or rib fullness
- Cough with copious phlegm
- Epigastric focal distension
- Poor appetite
Traditional preparation
Decoction 4–12g.
Cautions
Caution: Slightly cold and qi-moving; not suited to cold-deficiency conditions without professional guidance. Consult a professional.
Frequently asked questions
Is hogweed root a rare or exotic herb?
No — the Donguibogam describes it as found everywhere, simply dug and dried, one of the plainest and most common roots in the herbal repertoire.
What is hogweed root's main traditional use?
Resolving phlegm and relieving chest fullness — the Donguibogam highlights phlegm-filled chest and rib fullness and cough, alongside opening a poor appetite.
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.