Hei Zhi Ma
StarSesamum indicum L.
☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin; Nourishes Essence and Blood; Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels; Blackens the hair and benefits the eyes
Traditional Chinese Uses
Hei Zhi Ma (black sesame seed) is a mild, neutral-warm, food-grade tonic that nourishes Liver and Kidney to supplement Blood, replenish Jing, and moisten dryness. It is used for Liver-Kidney deficiency presenting with premature greying, hair loss, tinnitus, blurred vision, and lower back weakness, and its oily content relieves constipation from intestinal dryness. As a delicious food that doubles as a tonic, black sesame exemplifies the Chinese tradition of treating deficiency through everyday nourishment.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Sesamum indicum L. (Pedaliaceae) is an erect annual herb growing 50-100 cm tall, with opposite or alternate, lanceolate to ovate leaves and pubescent stems. Tubular, bell-shaped white to pale-pink flowers form in leaf axils and develop into elongate, four-angled capsules containing numerous small, flat, oval seeds in colors ranging from white and tan to brown and black. Cultivated since antiquity across Africa and Asia, sesame is one of the oldest oilseed crops, thriving in warm climates with well-drained soils. The seeds (Hei Zhi Ma when black) are pressed for oil or eaten whole and are highly valued in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal traditions for their lubricating, nourishing qualities.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
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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