CLINICAL APPLICATIONS * Hyperthyroidism § with low-grade fever, tachycardia (90 to 120 heartbeats per minute), tremors of the tongue and fingers, enlarged thyroid gland, unilateral or bilateral swollen and bulging eyes § with palpitations or tachycardia, fatigue, weight loss, fidgeting, irritability, bad temper, aversion to heat, perspiration, hunger and increased appetite, and increased blood pressure WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS * Lowers the level of thyroid hormone in the blood * Reduces enlargement of the thyroid gland * Treats the unwanted “sympathetic excess” signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS * Softens hardness, resolves nodules, and eliminates phlegm * Clears toxic heat and drains Liver fire * Tranquilizes the shen (spirit) * Tonifies qi and yin