Dr. David Orman

Atractylodes root, known as Bai Zhu in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a time-honored herb revered for its ability to strengthen the Spleen and dry dampness. Rooted in the Earth element, it offers foundational support for digestion, metabolism, and energy production. In TCM, a weak Spleen often manifests as fatigue, bloating, poor appetite, or loose stools—conditions Atractylodes is uniquely suited to remedy. It enhances nutrient absorption, helping the body convert food into usable energy and blood.

Beyond digestion, Atractylodes plays a vital role in managing internal dampness—a common cause of sluggishness, weight gain, and mental fog. By drying excess moisture and supporting the body’s natural transport functions, it restores clarity, balance, and movement. It also acts as a gentle diuretic, reducing swelling and improving fluid metabolism without depleting essential moisture. For those recovering from illness or dealing with chronic fatigue, it offers reliable, grounded energy without overstimulation.

Energetically, Atractylodes is stabilizing. In Taoist practice, it harmonizes the middle burner and anchors the qi, especially when life feels unstable or erratic. It reminds us to nourish the center, both physically and spiritually. Like the fertile earth, Atractylodes offers quiet strength—a dependable ally when the body’s foundation needs rebuilding. As both food and medicine, it teaches that true power lies not in excess but in balance.