Kochia fruit (di fu zi)

Bassia scoparia (syn. Kochia scoparia)

Traditionally attributed effects: drains damp heat in cystitis and itchy, weeping skin.

Safety notes

Only with dampness and 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 'herbs that drain dampness'. The seeds (di fu zi) are used for itchy skin and burning urination. In Japan they are eaten as tonburi, 'caviar of the land'. In North America the plant is an invasive weed.

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, bitter, cold
Meridians: kidney, bladder

Attributed effects

For acute cystitis with dark, scanty, painful urine, and itchy skin conditions such as eczema, scabies and contact eczema, internally and externally.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 6–15 g a day, usually in a decoction.

Combinations

With zhu ling, Chinese pink, plantain seed and talc for painful urination

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →