The main effects and actions of Arisaema are drying dampness and transforming phlegm, and dispelling wind and stopping spasms.

Arisaema is the dried tuber of a perennial herb in the Araceae family, and it is a commonly used traditional Chinese herbal medicine. The original plant mostly grows in shady, damp environments such as under forest canopies and in valleys, and it is distributed in many parts of China. Medicinal sources mainly include Arisaema erubescens, Arisaema heterophyllum and Arisaema amurense; products from different places of origin are sometimes mixed with closely related species, so identification is needed when purchasing.

From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, Arisaema is warm in nature and bitter and pungent in taste, and it enters the Lung, Liver and Spleen meridians. It has effects such as drying dampness and transforming phlegm, dispelling wind and stopping spasms, and dissipating nodules and reducing swelling. Physicians of past dynasties often used it to address stubborn phlegm cough, wind-phlegm dizziness, stroke with phlegm obstruction, facial paralysis, and tetanus and other conditions belonging to wind-phlegm patterns. The raw product is generally not taken internally; it is usually processed into prepared Arisaema before being used as medicine, and it also has traditional external uses for reducing swelling and dissipating nodules.

Special caution is needed: the raw product of Arisaema is toxic, and accidental ingestion or overdose may cause adverse reactions such as numbness of the mouth and tongue and throat discomfort. Therefore, it must undergo standardized processing and be used at the prescribed dosage under the guidance of a Chinese medicine practitioner. Pregnant women should use it cautiously and follow medical advice, and people with a weak constitution should not take it on their own.

Overall, Arisaema is a medicinal material known for transforming phlegm and dispelling wind, and it has a long history of use, but its toxic characteristics mean it is more suitable for use as a prescribed medicinal ingredient. When ordinary people experience discomfort such as cough or dizziness, they should first seek medical attention to clarify the cause, and should not use Arisaema casually as a daily health-care material.