Single Herb Glossary
Yù Zhú 玉竹
| Pharmaceutical name | Polygonati odorati Rhizoma scented Solomon's seal rhizome, polygonatum "jade bamboo" |
| Category | Tonify Yin |
| Key Properties | Enriches LU & ST Yin without being cloying Restores fluids injured by external pathogens without preventing expulsion of those pathogens (permits Releasing Exterior) |
| Properties | Sweet Slightly Cold |
| Tropism | LU, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Nourishes Yin & Moistens Dryness (LU/ST Dry Heat) 2) Extinguishes Wind and Softens & Moistens Sinews (muscle spasm) |
| Dosages | 6-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution with weak SP & ST, Internal accumulation of phlegm-dampness, Qi stagnation, or loose stools due to cold |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Convallamarin, convallarin, polygonatiin, polygonotin, quercitol, vitamin A, starch |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cardiovascular: administration associated with dilation of blood vessels and reduction of blood pressure in laboratory animals; in frog heart specimens, small dose has positive inotropic effect while large dose has negative inotropic effect; no significant change in heart rate was observed • Effects on smooth muscle: a 20% decoction of Yu Zhu has mild stimulating effect on uterus in mice; also has an initial stimulating, followed by inhibiting, effect on smooth muscle of intestines in mice • Antidiabetic: oral administration inhibits hyperglycemia associated with epinephrine and glucose intake |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Sha Shen Mai Men Dong Tang (Glehnia and Ophiopogonis Decoction) 沙蔘麥門冬湯 Jia Jian Wei Rui Tang (Modified Solomon's Seal Decoction) 加減葳蕤湯 |
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.