Constrict and Obstruct Movements

To constrict means to tighten, making movements more difficult, while to obstruct means to slow down movements by making the passage rougher. This class of herbs is divided into two subclasses. The first subclass consists of herbs that can constrict and obstruct the movement of semen in men and urination (such as Cherokee rose). The second subclass consists of herbs that can constrict and obstruct bowel movements (such as water lily). Herbs in the first subclass are used to treat premature ejaculation during sexual intercourse, seminal emission, enuresis, and frequent urination. Herbs in the second subclass are mostly used to check diarrhea.

However, this class of herbs is only used to treat these problems symptomatically, meaning that it cannot cure them fundamentally. For instance, when diarrhea occurs, this class of herbs should only be used when the real cause cannot be identified; otherwise, herbal treatment should be directed towards the cause. If the diarrhea is caused by indigestion, it should be treated with the class of herbs that promote digestion (class 9); if it is caused by cold sensations in the bowel, it should be treated with the class of herbs that warm the body (class 4).