Liang Mian Zhen Root … Classic Formulas

Liang Mian Zhen · Zanthoxyli Radix

Primary Actions

  • Moves Qi and alleviates pain, especially for toothache, epigastric pain, and abdominal pain involving local stagnation.
  • Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis in traumatic injury and fixed painful obstruction patterns.
  • Dispels wind-dampness and unblocks the collaterals for rheumatic pain, numbness, and restricted movement.
  • Resolves toxicity and reduces swelling in older use for snakebite, sore throat, and localized inflammatory swelling.

Classic Formulas

  • Sanjiuweitai-style stomach-pain formulas ... a well-known modern-traditional use when Qi stagnation and damp-heat irritate the Stomach.
  • Topical or oral toothache use ... one of the most recognizable practical applications of Liang Mian Zhen.
  • Wind-damp and traumatic-pain combinations with blood-moving herbs ... the usual pattern when joint pain and bruising coexist.

Classical Text References

  • Traditional herbology describes Liang Mian Zhen as bitter and pungent, entering the Liver and Stomach to move Qi, invigorate Blood, and stop pain.
  • Classical and regional sources consistently mention toothache, stomach pain, traumatic injury, rheumatic pain, and venomous snakebite.
  • Chinese materia medica also classifies the root as slightly toxic, which helps explain the emphasis on dose discipline.