State/School

Pacific College Comps

Pharm Name

potassium alum

Common Name

Potassium aluminum sulfate

Category

Topical Applications

Ingredients

Taste

Sour, Astringent

Pao Zhi

Temperature

Cold

Action / Indication

1. Resolves toxicity, dries dampness, kills parasites, and alleviates itching: used as an external wash for scabies, tinea, and rashes due to dampness or damp-heat. Also for swollen and painful throat or eyes, as well as jaundice. This is an important substance in dermatology. 
   
2. Restrains and inhibits sores, generates flesh, and transforms putrefaction: for a variety of external medicine problems when pathogens and toxins have collected and clogged in the channels, collaterals, and muscles leading to blockage and stagnation. Usually applied topically as Alum en dehydratum (ku fan).
   
3.  Stops bleeding and alleviates diarrhea: for chronic diarrhea, blood in the stool, uterine bleeding, and vaginal discharge. Also used topically for nosebleeds, hemorrhoidal bleeding, bleeding gums, and bleeding due to external trauma. Can be used topically by itself for these problems.
   
4.  Clears heat and expels phlegm: for wind-phlegm disorders manifested in irritability, delirium, and convulsions. Can also be used for cough with sputum that is difficult to expectorate. 
   

Treatment Principles

Contraindication

Always use with caution when taken internally. Contraindicated in cases of weak digestive systems or in the absence of damp-heat. According to some traditional sources, this herb antagonizes Mu Li and counteracts with Ma Huang.

Dosages

Use liberally for external application.

Meridians

LI, LV, LU, SP

Tom's Comment

Source

Formula Type