Single Herb Glossary
Jué Míng Zǐ 決明子
| Pharmaceutical name | Cassiae Semen Cassia (obtusifolia) seed |
| Category | Clear Heat, Drain Fire |
| Key Properties | Disperses Wind-Fire to cool the eyes Moistens the Intestines Nourishes LV & KD Yin, with both ascending and descending actions |
| Properties | Bitter Sweet Salty Slightly Cold |
| Tropism | LV, LI, KD |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Clears the Liver & the eyes 2) Calms the Liver & Anchors Errant Yang (headache, dizziness) 3) Moistens Intestines & Unblocks the Bowels 4) Prevents Artherosclerosis (lower blood pressure/cholesterol) |
| Dosages | 9-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Diarrhea from SP Def/Cold or low blood pressure; caution during pregnancy, stimulates uterus (This is a Cold herb with laxative properties) |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Chrysophanol, emodin, aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin-b-monoglucoside, emodinan, physcion, obtusin, aurantioobtusin, torachrysone, rubrofusarin, nor-rubrofusarin, toratactone |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antihypertensive: water and alcohol extracts demonstrated marked diuretic and antihypertensive effects • Antibiotic: inhibitory influence against S. aureus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, E. coli, and various species of bacillus and dermatophytes • Antihyperlipidemic: lowers blood cholesterol levels in both animal and human studies; in one study, administration of 10 g/day lowered blood cholesterol levels in rabbits; in another study, incorporation of Jue Ming Zi as 7% of diet in mice increased blood HDL level • Purgative: oral administration in mice associated with purgative effect that peaks 3-5 hours after ingestion • Uterine stimulant: associated with increased contraction of the uterus |
| 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.