Buddleia flower bud (mi meng hua)

Buddleja officinalis

Traditionally attributed effects: cools liver heat in red, swollen, watery and light-sensitive eyes.

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: Always have eye complaints investigated by a GP or ophthalmologist.

Preparation

Flower buds. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that cool internal heat'. The flower buds are used for red, swollen, watery eyes and sensitivity to light. In southern China they colour rice yellow for festivals.

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: sweet, cool
Meridians: liver

Attributed effects

Cools liver heat that rises to the eyes: red, painful eyes, much tearing, light sensitivity. Also used for cataract and heat and inflammation in head, throat and gums.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 4–12 g a day, usually in a decoction.

Combinations

With chrysanthemum and tribulus for red eyes
With goji for blurred vision and dry eyes from liver yin deficiency

Caution: Always have eye complaints investigated by a GP or ophthalmologist.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →