Rhizoma Bletillae
Source
The tuber of Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Reichb. f., family Orchidaceae
Characteristics
Tuber irregularly oblate, with 2-3 branches, 1.5-5.0 cm long, 0.5-1.5
cm 
thick.
Surface yellow-white, finely wrinkled, with protruding stem scars surrounded
by several concentric annular nodes on which spotted fibrous root scars
are present. Fractured surface somewhat white, cuticuloid, with scattered
spotted vascular bundles. Bitter and astringent in taste, slightly cold
in nature, and attributive to lung, liver and stomach channels.
Indication
1. Stop bleeding by astringing: Usually used for bleeding from the stomach,
the lung and trauma.
2. Remove the necrotic tissues and promote granulation: For pulmonary
tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, peptic ulcer, 
skin
ulcer, anal fissure, skin chap of hands and feet, burn and fistula (external
use as well).
3. Antiphlogistic: For pyogenic infection and ulcerous diseases of skin.
Pharmacological
Action
1. Hemostatic.
2. Its alcoholic infusion is a bacteriostatic agent.
Administration
Decoction: 6-15g.
Powder: 2-Sg bid or tid.
External use: For lesions of body surface.