Virgate Wormwood
Overview
Virgate wormwood is the classic remedy for jaundice in East Asian medicine, its very name explained in the Donguibogam: unlike other plants, its old stem survives the winter without dying, and new sprouts grow from that same old growth each spring — hence "yin-chen" ("relying on the old"). The text also gives an unusually specific processing instruction: never let it near fire.
In the Donguibogam
寶鑑
Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam
- Clears damp-heat
- Resolves jaundice
- Promotes urination
- Clears epidemic heat
Traditional applications recorded in the classical text
- Jaundice with whole-body yellowing
- Difficult or scanty urination
- Epidemic febrile illness with headache
- Heat-type restlessness
Traditional preparation
DonguiHub does not provide dosage guidance.
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 is this herb called "yin-chen" (relying on the old)?
The Donguibogam explains that unlike most plants, its old stem survives winter without dying, and new sprouts grow from that same old growth each spring — the basis of its name.
What is virgate wormwood's main traditional use?
Jaundice — it is the classic Donguibogam remedy for whole-body yellowing and difficult urination, alongside use for epidemic febrile illness with headache.
Sources
- 『동의보감』 탕액편, 허준, 1613 (원문) — 한문 원문
- 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 원문 및 국역 자료 참조