Xiang Fu (Cyperus): A Key Herb for Emotional Balance and Digestive Harmony in Pets

In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), we understand that emotions, digestion, and physical health are deeply connected. One herb that beautifully illustrates this connection is Xiang Fu (Cyperus rotundus), often called the “Qi regulator of the emotions.”

While Xiang Fu has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for humans, it also plays an important role in veterinary herbal formulas—especially for pets whose symptoms worsen with stress or emotional changes.

What Is Xiang Fu?

Xiang Fu comes from the tuber of the Cyperus plant and is classified in TCVM as a Qi-regulating herb, with a special affinity for the Liver system.

In TCVM, the Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body. When that flow becomes stuck—often due to stress or emotional tension—physical symptoms can appear.

Xiang Fu’s primary role is to:

• Move stagnant Qi

• Soothe emotional tension

• Support digestion

• Reduce pain related to stagnation

Why Emotional Health Matters in Pets

Pets experience stress just like humans do. Common triggers include:

• Changes in routine or household

• Separation anxiety

• New pets or family members

• Travel or boarding

• Chronic illness or pain

In TCVM, emotional stress most often affects the Liver, and Liver imbalance can disrupt:

• Digestion

• Bowel movements

• Appetite

• Hormonal balance

• Pain perception

Xiang Fu helps restore balance by encouraging energy to move smoothly again, rather than becoming stuck.

Common Signs That Xiang Fu May Be Helpful

Xiang Fu is commonly found in formulas prescribed for pets with:

• Digestive upset linked to stress
  (intermittent diarrhea, soft stools, gas, bloating)

• Decreased or picky appetite that fluctuates

• Abdominal discomfort without clear structural disease

• Restlessness, irritability, or anxiety

• Symptoms that worsen with emotional triggers

• Hormonal or reproductive imbalances in intact animals

Importantly, Xiang Fu is not a sedative. Instead, it helps the body regulate itself by restoring proper energetic flow.

How Xiang Fu Works in TCVM

From a TCVM perspective, Xiang Fu:

• Moves Liver Qi

• Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen (emotion–digestion connection)

• Alleviates pain caused by stagnation

• Supports normal gastrointestinal motility

When Qi flows smoothly:

• Digestion improves

• Pain decreases

• Mood stabilizes

• The body becomes more resilient to stress

Is Xiang Fu Used Alone?

Rarely. In veterinary practice, Xiang Fu is typically included as part of a balanced herbal formula. TCVM formulas are carefully constructed so that:

• No single herb does all the work

• Herbs support and protect one another

• The formula matches the pet’s specific pattern, not just symptoms

This is why TCVM herbs should always be prescribed by a trained veterinarian, not added independently.

A Gentle but Powerful Herb

One of the reasons Xiang Fu is so valued is its gentle nature. When used appropriately:

• It is well tolerated

• It supports long-term balance

• It addresses root causes, not just symptoms

For pets whose physical issues are closely tied to stress or emotional tension, Xiang Fu can be a key component of healing.

The TCVM Approach at Shapley TCVM

At Shapley TCVM, we don’t treat symptoms in isolation. We look at:

• Emotional health

• Physical signs

• Tongue and pulse findings

• Lifestyle and environment

Herbs like Xiang Fu are chosen only when they match the pet’s individual pattern, ensuring safe and effective care.

If you think your pet’s health issues may be linked to stress, digestion, or emotional imbalance, TCVM may offer answers that conventional medicine alone cannot.

Interested in learning whether TCVM herbs are right for your pet?
Contact Shapley TCVM to schedule a consultation and explore a truly holistic approach to veterinary care.