Raw Angelica and processed Angelica differ primarily in their preparation methods, therapeutic effects, and clinical applications. For example:
Raw Angelica is mainly used for blood deficiency syndrome.
Stir-fried Angelica, a type of processed Angelica, moderates its laxative properties and is suited for blood deficiency with spleen-stomach weakness.
Wine-fried Angelica, another processed form, enhances blood-activating effects and is used for menstrual disorders caused by blood stasis.
1. Preparation Methods
Raw Angelica: Fresh roots are washed, dried, and sliced.
Processed Angelica:
Stir-fried with Zhaoxin Tu : Raw Angelica is stir-fried with zhaoxin tu (a type of calcined clay).
Wine-fried: Raw Angelica is soaked in yellow rice wine, then stir-fried until golden-brown.
2. Therapeutic Effects
Raw Angelica:
Nature: Warm, acrid.
Potency: Strong and direct.
Processed Angelica:
Nature: Milder and more balanced.
3. Clinical Applications
Raw Angelica
Key Actions: Nourishes blood, regulates menstruation, moistens intestines to relieve constipation.
Indications:
Blood deficiency with constipation.
General blood deficiency and weakness.
Acute suppurative skin infections and ulcers.
Wine-fried Angelica
Key Actions: Activates blood circulation, nourishes blood, regulates menstruation.
Indications:
Amenorrhea due to blood stasis.
Dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation.
Rheumatic pain.
Stir-fried Angelica
Key Actions: Nourishes blood without causing diarrhea.
Indications:
Blood deficiency with loose stools.
Epigastric or abdominal pain due to middle jiao deficiency-cold.
Charred Angelica
Key Actions: Stops bleeding, harmonizes blood.
Indications:
Excessive uterine bleeding.
Heavy menstruation.
Bleeding due to blood deficiency.
Important Note
Patients should consult a licensed TCM practitioner for pattern differentiation before using Angelica. Self-prescribing without professional guidance may worsen conditions.
By understanding these distinctions, practitioners can optimize Angelica’s therapeutic potential while adhering to TCM principles of precision and balance.
