Single Herb Glossary
Gǒu Qǐ Zǐ 枸杞子
| Pharmaceutical name | Lycii Fructus lycium fruit, Chinese wolfberry, matrimony vine fruit |
| Category | Tonify Blood |
| Key Properties | Enriches KD/LU yin Nourishes LV blood Mildly tonifies KD yang |
| Properties | Sweet Neutral |
| Tropism | LV, LU, KD |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Nourishes & Tonifies LV & KD (Yin/blood deficiency) 2) Benefits Essence & Brightens Eyes 3) Enriches Yin & Moistens LU |
| Dosages | 3-9g Separately dissolved then added to the other decocted herbs |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Excess or exterior conditions Caution with diarrhea from SP and ST Deficiency Pregnancy: stimulates contractions of uterus |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Betaine, solavetivone, zeaxanthin, physalien, β-sitosterol, linoleic acid, sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Immunostimulant: administration associated with increase in non-specific immunity; increases phagocytic activity of macrophages and total number of T cells • Hematological: decoction shown to increase production of red blood cells and white blood cells in mice • Cardiovascular: intravenous injection of water extract at 20 mg/kg lowers blood pressure in rabbits; this cardiovascular effect may be reversed by injection of atropine • Uterine stimulant: decoction has stimulating effect on uterus in rabbits • Antineoplastic: enhances immune system and suppresses growth of cancer cells in mice |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.