(Yuan zhi; Siberian milkwort) Like the North American senega, roots are excellent for coughs, particularly when there is excess phlegm, and for bronchitis and asthma. In Chinese medicine, it calms the spirit and opens the flow of chi in the heart, which in western terms may be related to its sedative and tranquilizing properties. Used for anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, poor memory, and depression, especially in cases of excessive brooding and pent-up emotions.