Bái Fù Zǐ (白附子) — Giant Typhonium Rhizome
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1. Overview
Bái Fù Zǐ (白附子) — the prepared rhizome of Typhonium giganteum — is a warm, pungent Chinese herb specifically used to dispel Wind-Phlegm from the channels and head. It is the lead herb of Qian Zheng San, the classical formula for facial paralysis (modern Bell's palsy), and is used for Wind-stroke with deviation of the mouth and eye, severe one-sided headaches, and stubborn Phlegm-Damp obstructing the head. The herb is toxic in its raw form and is almost always supplied processed (Zhi Bai Fu Zi). It is distinct from Fu Zi (Aconite) despite the similar name.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Bái Fù Zǐ |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 白附子 |
| Latin name | Rhizoma Typhonii / Typhonium giganteum |
| English name | Giant Typhonium rhizome |
| Nature | Warm — toxic (use processed) |
| Flavour | Pungent, sweet |
| Channels entered | Stomach, Liver |
| Category | Warm and transform cold Phlegm |
| Dosage | 3–6 g, decocted (processed form only); 0.5–1 g as powder |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Dispels Wind-Phlegm from the channels and head — for facial paralysis (Bell's palsy) with deviation of the mouth and eye; for Wind-stroke sequelae with hemiplegia; for one-sided headache with the Phlegm-Wind aetiology.
- Stops convulsions and calms internal Wind — for tetanus, childhood convulsions and seizures driven by Phlegm-Wind.
- Resolves toxicity and reduces swelling — applied topically (as powder paste) for scrofula, snake bites and stubborn ulcers.
4. Key formulas
- Qian Zheng San (Lead to Symmetry Powder) — the principal formula for facial paralysis. Bai Fu Zi combines with Bai Jiang Can (white silkworm) and Quan Xie (scorpion) in equal parts. Modern adaptations often substitute the animal products for safer alternatives.
- Yu Zhen San — for tetanus and convulsions from Wind-Phlegm.
- Adapted formulas for migraine with prominent Phlegm features may include Bai Fu Zi at low doses under specialist supervision.
5. Cautions
Bai Fu Zi is toxic in its raw form — only processed Bai Fu Zi (Zhi Bai Fu Zi) should be used clinically. Contraindicated in pregnancy and in Yin deficiency with Wind. Should be prescribed only by a qualified RCHM-registered Chinese herbalist. Not the same herb as Fu Zi (Aconite) — the names sound similar but the herbs and their indications differ.
6. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Bai Fu Zi as part of pharmaceutical-grade granule prescriptions from Sun Ten in Taiwan for the specific Wind-Phlegm patterns it addresses, most commonly facial paralysis and one-sided headache. Online Chinese herbal consultations are available. See prices for costs.
