Products Featuring This Herb:

More Information:

Other Common Names
Amber

Page Number In Radiant Health
200

Pharmaceutical Latin
Succinum

Pinyin
Hu Po

Treasures
Shen

Treasure Rating
***1/2

Atmospheric Energy
Neutral

Organ Meridian Systems
Heart, Liver, Small Intestine and Bladder

Primary Functions
To stabilize Shen

Preparation and Utilization
Amber is primarily used in Chinese herbalism to relax the nerves and calm the mind. It is safe and effective as a mild tranquilizer. It is believed that by calming the mind by consuming Amber and other related Shen stabilizing agents, the mind has the opportunity to rest, regain strength and focus. Amber is thus used in formulas both for calming anxiety and for improving the power of the mind. It is believed therefore to improve concentration, memory and alertness when consumed in moderation over a continuous period of time, especially when combined with other mind strengthening tonics such as Schizandra, Lycium, Polygonatum sibericum, Deer Antler, Ginseng, Gynostemma, Acanthopanax, etc., and along with other Shen stabilizers such as Biota, Polygonum Stem and Zizyphus. Amber is always used with other herbs in a formulation.

Amber has excellent effects for people experiencing palpitations due to anxiety, insomnia, excessive dreaming and nightmares. Amber can be especially beneficial to those who suffer excess tension due to stress.

Another use for Amber is to invigorate blood flow. It is sometimes used in formulas which promote menstruation. Such formulas routinely contain Dong Gui and various blood vitalizing herbs

Primary Combinations
Combine with:

1. Spirit Poria, Dragon Bone, Oyster Shell, Zizyphus Seed, Albizia Bark and Polygonum Stem to stabilize Shen and treat insomnia caused by anxiety

Varieties and Grading
Amber for herbal use comes in a variety of grades. Good herbal Amber is dark brown or reddish in color, and should be free of loose dirt or residue. Wash the Amber before grinding it into powder. Amber will not melt in boiling water, whereas fake "Amber" will. If it does melt, it is not really amber---don't use it. A counterfeit "Amber" made of colophony is sometimes sold in Chinese herb shops. Because Amber will not dissolve in water, it cannot be used in teas. It must be ground into a very fine powder if added to an herb powder (such as the powder used in a pill or capsule).

Contraindications
It should not be used by people with excess heat or who are yin deficient.