Xanthium

Xanthium is another name for the cocklebur, a common bush native to Europe, North America and western Asia. The name xanthium comes from the Greek "xanthos," meaning yellow, and referring to the bush's seed pods, which turn from green to yellow as they ripen. The pods, or fruit, are used in Chinese medicine, and are referred to as cang er zi based on their color and appearance.

The benefits of Xanthium are

In traditional Chinese medicine, xanthium is associated with the Lung meridian, and is considered to have sweet, bitter and warm properties. It is used to dispel wind and damp, and is one of the most important herbs used for sinus congestion, chronic nasal obstructions and discharges, and respiratory allergies. In the West, xanthium is employed as an analgesic to relieve aches and pains, and headaches associated with nasal congestion and sinusitis. It is often used with other herbs, such as angelica and magnolia.