Bletilla rhizome (Bái Jí), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, offers key therapeutic actions including astringent hemostasis (shōuliǎn zhǐxiě), reducing swelling and promoting tissue regeneration (xiāozhǒng shēngjī), and antibacterial/anti-inflammatory effects. It is used for external/internal bleeding, gastric ulcers, and skin ulcers—always under professional guidance.

I. Key Benefits and Mechanisms

Astringent Hemostasis

Mechanism: Its mucilaginous components promote platelet aggregation and shorten clotting time. Effective for gastric hemorrhage, hemoptysis, and traumatic bleeding.

Science: Bletilla striata polysaccharides drive this hemostatic effect.

Accelerates Wound Healing

Application: Topical use on ulcers, burns, or surgical wounds reduces infection risk and speeds tissue repair via anti-inflammatory action.

Protects Mucous Membranes

Action: Forms a protective layer on digestive/respiratory tracts, alleviating damage from gastric ulcers, esophagitis, or chronic bronchitis.

Antibacterial & Anti-Inflammatory

Evidence: Inhibits Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, supporting inflammatory condition management.

II. Clinical Applications

Internal Use: Decoctions or powder for gastric ulcer bleeding, TB-related hemoptysis (combined with other herbs).

Topical Use: Powder mixed with water or ointments for cracked skin, scalds, and non-healing sores.

III. Critical Precautions

Contraindications:

Avoid in early-stage externally-contracted cough (wàigǎn késòu chūqǐ)—may trap pathogens.

Pregnant women or allergy-prone individuals: Use only after medical evaluation.

Herb Incompatibility:

Never pair with Aconitum herbs (Wūtóu lèi) due to toxicity risks.

Usage Principles:

Bleeding disorders: Identify root cause; do not rely solely on Bletilla.

Persistent symptoms: Seek medical reevaluation promptly.

Professional Reminder

While Bletilla is a natural remedy, its application requires personalized TCM diagnosis (biànzhèng lùnzhì). Consult a licensed practitioner to ensure safe and effective use.

Safety first, efficacy assured with expert guidance.

Terminology Notes

Astringent hemostasis : WHO International Standard Term #PS-009

Bletilla striata: Pharmacopoeia-standard nomenclature

Externally-contracted cough : Refers to cough triggered by external pathogens (wind, cold, etc.) in TCM pathology.