☯ TCM Properties
Resolves Phlegm, dissipates nodules and reduces masses; Clears Heat and reduces toxicity; Cools the Blood and stops bleeding; Stops coughing and calms wheezing
Traditional Chinese Uses
Huang Yao Zi is the tuber of Dioscorea bulbifera (air-potato yam). Bitter and cold, entering the Liver, Lung and Heart channels, it resolves Phlegm and dissipates nodules to reduce masses, clears Heat and relieves toxicity, cools the Blood to stop bleeding, and calms cough and wheezing. Its signature use is stubborn goiter and thyroid/neck nodules (Phlegm binding), where it has long been considered notably effective; it also treats scrofula, sore swollen throat, toxic sores and carbuncles, cough with Phlegm-Heat, and various bleeding patterns.
It is usually decocted (about 3-9 g) or soaked in wine, and combined with Phlegm-softening, nodule-dissipating herbs. Critically, this tuber is hepatotoxic (diosbulbin constituents): it must be given only in limited courses of a few weeks with liver-function monitoring, avoided in liver disease and pregnancy, and stopped if nausea, jaundice or abdominal pain appear.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Huang Yao Zi is the tuberous rhizome (bulbil) of Dioscorea bulbifera L. (Dioscoreaceae), the air-potato yam, a perennial twining herbaceous vine 5-30 m long native to tropical Asia and Africa and widespread across southern China. The slender, smooth, left-twining stems arise from a large brown irregular subterranean tuber and bear conspicuous aerial bulbils 2-10 cm in diameter at the leaf axils. Alternate, long-petioled, broadly cordate leaves are 5-15 cm long with palmate venation. Small, fragrant, greenish-white flowers are borne in pendulous axillary spikes. The harvested tuber is sliced and dried, appearing as flat, brownish-yellow discs with a hard texture and bitter taste. In TCM the rhizome cools blood, resolves toxin, and softens hardness, used for goitre, lymphadenopathy, sore throat, and abscesses. The herb is hepatotoxic, especially with prolonged use or in raw form; modern guidance limits dosing duration and recommends processed material.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | 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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