Cnidium seed (she chuang zi)

Cnidium monnieri

Traditionally attributed effects: externally for itching and fungus around the genitals; internally a kidney yang tonic.

Safety notes

Not with internal damp heat or yin deficiency with heat. 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

Fruit. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'substances for external use'. She chuang zi, 'snake bed seed', is used mainly externally in washes for itching, eczema and vaginal infections. The seed contains osthole, which has been studied in the laboratory.

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: pungent, bitter, warm
Meridians: kidney, spleen

Attributed effects

Externally as a powder, wash or ointment for damp-hot skin conditions, especially fungal and yeast infections in the genital area, weeping eczema and scabies. Internally for impotence and infertility from cold and for discharge and lower back pain from cold dampness.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 6–12 g a day, usually in a decoction.

Combinations

Externally with alum, huang bai and borneol for trichomonas and vaginal itching
Internally with cuscuta, babchi and schisandra for impotence

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →