- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (Central Asia)
- Other names
- Huo ma ren
Asia · Herb · № 305
Cannabis sativa
Herb · Asia
Hemp seed
Cannabis sativa
Traditionally attributed effects: stimulant laxative.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Chinese materia medica: Do not use for long periods; psyllium seed is an alternative. The seed contains hardly any of the intoxicating substances of the plant.
Preparation
Seeds.
Use in traditions
Described in herbal medicine (Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic). In Chinese medicine hemp seed (huo ma ren) is a mild laxative that moistens the bowels, especially in the elderly; it is part of Ma Zi Ren Wan (Japanese: Mashiningan). The seed contains no intoxicating amounts of THC.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Stimulant laxative.
Preparation and amount
Seeds.
Chinese materia medica
- Nature and taste
- sweet, neutral
- Meridians
- large intestine, spleen, stomach
Attributed effects
Huo ma ren moistens the bowel in constipation from dryness, especially in the elderly, weak people and after a febrile illness, and is used externally on small sores.
Preparation and amount
Traditional dosage: 9–30 g a day, finely ground.
Combinations
- With dang gui and prepared rehmannia for constipation from blood deficiency
- With peach kernel, white peony and bitter orange for constipation from dryness and heat
Caution: Do not use for long periods; psyllium seed is an alternative. The seed contains hardly any of the intoxicating substances of the plant.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Powder and kitchen