Duckweed
浮萍 · Fú Píng
Clears skin rashes and eases itchy flare-ups
What it does
Duckweed is traditionally used for itchy skin rashes, hives, and puffiness. In TCM, these come from wind-heat, meaning your body is running hot with something irritating trapped near the surface. It helps push that heat outward so your rashes can resolve. It also helps your body release excess fluid to reduce swelling. One of TCM's smallest plants, but a real specialist for skin.
How to take it
Steep 6–10g of dried duckweed in hot water for 15 minutes. Strain and drink warm. Can also be applied topically as a wash for itchy skin.
Ask a practitioner before using. This is a specialized botanical
Safety
- Best for short-term use during acute skin flare-ups, not long-term
- Skip if you sweat a lot already. This botanical promotes sweating
- Not recommended during pregnancy
- Talk to your doctor before starting, especially if you take medication
Where it comes from
Duckweed is one of the smallest flowering plants on Earth. It floats on still water and can double its population in days. In TCM, this rapid surface-dwelling nature connects to its medicinal role: it works at the body's surface, pushing pathogens outward through the skin. It's been used since the Ming Dynasty for measles cases where the rash wouldn't fully emerge, which was considered dangerous. A reminder that in TCM, the tiniest plants sometimes do the most specific work.