Cistus

Also called: Labdanum, Rock Rose

Profile

Used as a fixative in blends (see Fixatives).

TCM Categories

• Stop Bleeding
• Astringent
• Calm shen

Functions

• Regulate Liver overacting on the Spleen, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, cystitis, menstrual problems
• Stop bleeding, astringes the yang to bank the blood
• Astringe the yang to expel cold on the surface, nasal congestion, throat bi, cold extremities

Indications

• Spleen Not Banking the Blood with bleeding (PC-6, BL-17, LR-13, SP-1)

Topical Applications

• Apply directly to bleeding wounds.
• Apply topically to SP 1 to stop bleeding, including menstrual bleeding

Specific Protocols

• Add to Luo-passage vessel blends involving emptiness.

Actions

• Antidepressant
• Hemostatic
• Vulnerary (used in the healing of wounds)
• Mucolytic

Contraindications & Cautions

Notes

• Fixative, prevents spreading
• Strong base note, you do not want to use it daily
• Can develop tolerance or saturation point of effectiveness
• Good for a state of deficit: someone who keeps losing things due to deficient blood, and may stay up too late to get something out of the day
• For Bi obstruction
• Prevents the spread of (skin) cancer
• Helps astringe the spirit and makes you more comfortable with what you have
• Strongly calming
• Good for hypothyroid
• Can astringe yang to help someone fall asleep, especially with insomnia around menopause, by bringing that yang in.
• Good for blood-deficiency depression with a loss of meaning in life. It can be a rescue oil, possibly even if someone is suicidal

Additional Comments

• Cistus is also known as Rock Rose