Pi Pa Ye
StarEriobotrya japonica
☯ TCM Properties
Transforms Phlegm, clears Lung Heat, descends Lung Qi and stops coughing; Harmonizes the Stomach, clears Stomach Heat and descends Stomach Qi
Traditional Chinese Uses
Pi Pa Ye (loquat leaf) is a cooling, bitter herb primarily used to descend rebellious Lung and Stomach Qi. For the Lungs, it clears heat, transforms phlegm, and relieves cough — particularly dry or heat-type coughs. For the Stomach, it settles upward-moving Qi to calm nausea, vomiting, and hiccup. Its descending and moistening properties make it especially helpful in hot, dry conditions.
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Eriobotrya japonica is an evergreen tree or large shrub reaching 5-10 m tall. Leaves are large, elliptic to oblong-lanceolate, 15-30 cm long, dark glossy green and leathery above, with a densely woolly (rusty) underside and prominent veins. Small, fragrant, white flowers are borne in erect panicles in autumn. Fruits (loquats) are oval to pear-shaped, 3-5 cm long, yellow-orange, with sweet or slightly acidic flesh surrounding 1-5 large, dark seeds. In TCM, the dried leaf with the hairs brushed off (Pi Pa Ye) is used.
Hillsides, forest margins, and cultivated gardens; native to the mountains of central China, widely cultivated throughout subtropical and mild temperate regions worldwide for its fruit.
Eriobotrya japonica is widely cultivated throughout subtropical regions and has naturalized in many areas. While native to China, it is not threatened. No conservation concerns.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-12 g | daily | — | adult | Wrap in cloth (bao jian) to remove hairs; honey-fried for cough, raw for stomach heat. |
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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