- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- China
- Traditions
- Chinese medical traditions
Asia · Herb · № 748
Pseudostellaria heterophylla
Herb · Asia
Pseudostellaria root (tai zi shen)
Pseudostellaria heterophylla
Traditionally attributed effects: a mild qi tonic that also replenishes body fluids.
Safety notes
Do not combine with Veratrum. 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
Root. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.
Use in traditions
Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'tonics'. Tai zi shen, 'prince's ginseng', is a mild tonic for qi and yin, especially for children and after illness. It is used as a cheaper, gentler substitute for ginseng.
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, slightly bitter, neutral
- Meridians
- spleen, lung
Attributed effects
For qi deficiency with spontaneous sweating, tiredness and poor appetite, and thirst and dryness after a feverish illness.
Preparation and amount
Traditional dosage: 9–30 g a day, usually in a decoction.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Decoction