Gan Cao

• Tonifies the spleen and augments qi - spleen deficiency w/shortness of breath, fatigue, loose stools (si jun zi tong).
• Qi and/or blood deficiency w/irregular pluse or palpitations (Zhi Gan Cao Tang).
• Moistens the lungs and stops cough - heat/cold in the lungs (Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang).
• Clears heat and toxic fire (raw) - carbuncles, sores, sore throat due to fire toxin (internally or topically).
• Alleviates pain and stops spasms - abdomen or legs (Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang).
• Often used to harmonize and/or moderate characteristics of other herbs.
• Antidote for toxic substances (internally and topically).