Atractylodes lancea (Kot Khema / Cang Zhu 苍术)

Thai/Chinese Herb: Atractylodes lancea (Kot Khema / Cang Zhu 苍术)

Characteristics:

Uses the dried rhizome
Described in Thai traditional medicine as having a balanced, warm, and aromatic flavor
Key Benefits:

Strengthens the Earth element, supporting the spleen and stomach functions
Relieves bloating and abdominal discomfort by dispelling digestive wind
Acts as a diuretic, helping reduce water retention and support urinary flow
Stimulates appetite and enhances digestive enzyme activityideal for those with poor appetite
Additional Insight:
Kot Khema is one of the five aromatic roots known as Kot Ha in Thai medicine.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is known as Cang Zhu (苍术) and is used to dispel dampness, tonify the spleen, and aid digestion.
It is commonly found in herbal formulas for digestive tonics, energy balancing, and aromatic wind-relieving remedies.

‍️ Recommended For:

Individuals with weak digestion or loss of appetite
Those with imbalanced energy (fatigue, dizziness, or weakness)
People with water retention or urinary irregularities
Post Series Suggestion:
Feature in a themed post:
Herbs for Elemental Balance Digestive Support Appetite Stimulation, alongside:

Sa-Khan Vine / Long Pepper / Cardamom / Coriander Seed for wind relief and warming digestion
Rhubarb (Kot Nam Tao) for digestive detox and cleansing
Mace (Dok Jan) to support internal warmth and fire element