Induce Bowel Movements
Herbs belonging to this class, such as rhubarb, are commonly used to treat constipation. However, according to two treatment principles in Chinese medicine, these herbs can also treat other diseases. The first treatment principle suggests that inducing bowel movements can help alleviate symptoms in the upper region of the body, including inflammation of the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, skin, and facial acne, as long as constipation or poor bowel movements are also present. The second principle states that abdominal pain and swelling caused by obstruction of smooth bowel movements can be treated with this class of herbs if constipation or poor bowel movements are also present. It is important to note that inducing bowel movements is a temporary measure in the treatment of acute conditions.