The source is from the dried ripe seed of Strychnos nuxvomica L. or Strychnos pierriana A. W. Hill, family Loganiaceae. The medicinal material is mainly prouded in India, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Strychnos pierriana A. W. is mainly produced in Yunnan and Guangdong provinces of China. It is collected in summer and autumn, the pulp being removed and the seed being taken out and then dried in the sun. It is processed before being used.

Medicinal Properties: Bitter in flavor, cold in nature, toxic and attributive to the liver and spleen meridians.

Actions: Remove obstruction in the channels, relieve pain and subdue swelling.

Application
1. It can be used in combination with Baijiangcan (Bombyx Batrgticatus ) to treat carbuncle or fracture with stasis of the blood, swelling and pain, such as Qinglong Wan (Pill). For laryngalgia, it is used in combination with equal amount of Shandougen (Radix Sophorae Subprostratae ) and Qingmuxiang ( Radix Aristolochiae ), which is ground into powder and insufflated into the local area.
2. In treating Bi-syndrome with pain of wind and dampness type or spasm and numbness, it can be used in combination with Mahuang (Herba Ephedrae), Ruxiang ( Olibanum ), Moyao (Myrrhae ), etc..

Usage and Dosage: For external use, proper amount is ground into powder, which is insufflated into the local area or applied to the local area with water. 0.3 -0.6 g is processed into pill or powder for oral use.

Notes: It is toxic and therefore it should not be taken over a long time and the dosage should be strictly controlled. It is contraindicated in pregnant women. Over-dosage may lead to such symptoms as tremor of the limbs, infantile convulsion, dyspnea and even coma.