Tatarian Aster Root
Overview
Tatarian aster's poetic old name, "soul-returning grass," reflects how highly it was regarded for lung conditions verging on the fatal — the Donguibogam records it for lung wasting with spit blood. The text also notes a substitute: a white-flowered relative, nyeowan, can be used interchangeably when tatarian aster is unavailable.
In the Donguibogam
寶鑑
Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam
- Moistens the lung, transforms phlegm
- Stops cough
- Relieves counterflow qi
- Nourishes the skin
Traditional applications recorded in the classical text
- Cough with blood-tinged phlegm
- Dry throat and thirst from lung dryness
- Cough with counterflow qi ascent
- Weak limbs from chronic lung depletion
Traditional preparation
Traditionally honey-soaked and roasted.
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 was tatarian aster called "soul-returning grass"?
This poetic old name reflects how highly it was regarded for severe lung conditions, including lung wasting with spit blood — a use the Donguibogam records directly.
Is there a substitute if tatarian aster isn't available?
Yes — the Donguibogam notes a white-flowered relative, nyeowan (女菀), can be used interchangeably, as it shares the same therapeutic effect.
Sources
- 『동의보감』 탕액편, 허준, 1613 (원문) — 한문 원문
- 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 원문 및 국역 자료 참조