Loquat leaf (pi pa ye)

Eriobotrya japonica

Traditionally attributed effects: cools hot phlegm in the lungs and makes rebellious lung and stomach energy descend.

Safety notes

Not with cold. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Leaf, without hairs. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough'. The leaf (pi pa ye) is a classic cough remedy and is part of the well-known Chinese loquat cough syrup. In Japan the leaves are used in warm compresses and baths; the orange fruits are a popular fruit.

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.

Chinese materia medica

Nature and taste: bitter, cool
Meridians: lung, stomach

Attributed effects

For cough from wind-heat, acute and chronic bronchitis, and stomach heat with nausea, vomiting and belching.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 6–15 g a day, usually in a decoction. Remove the hairs from the leaf or strain the tea well; they irritate the throat.

Combinations

With mulberry leaf and platycodon for lung heat
With bamboo shavings and reed for nausea

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction
Formulas: Qing zao jiu fei tang

Sources

All herbs from Asia →