Che Qian Zi
StarPlantago asiatica L.
Synonyms: Plantago major var. asiatica (L.) Decne., Plantago asiatica L.
☯ TCM Properties
Damp
Traditional Chinese Uses
Che Qian Zi (plantain seed) is a cold-natured, sweet herb known for its diuretic, vision-supporting, and phlegm-clearing properties. It clears damp heat from the Bladder to relieve difficult, painful, or burning urination; settles Liver Yang rising to benefit sore, red, or light-sensitive eyes; and descends Lung Qi while transforming phlegm to ease cough with copious sputum. Its capacity to separate the clear from the turbid also makes it useful for watery diarrhea. Botanical name: Plantago asiatica.
Western Herbalism Properties
Used In Formulas (2)
Botanical Description
Plantago asiatica is a perennial herb in the plantain family (Plantaginaceae) with a short, thick rootstock bearing numerous fibrous roots. The leaves form a basal rosette; each blade is broadly oval, 4–12 cm long, with an obtuse apex and 5 (occasionally 7) prominent arcuate veins running from the base. From the rosette rise several erect, leafless scapes 20–45 cm tall bearing slender spikes of many small, whitish, wind-pollinated flowers. The fruit is an ovoid capsule (pyxidium) that splits around its middle to release about four small dark seeds. These seeds are the source of Che Qian Zi, and the whole plant of Che Qian Cao.
Roadsides, field margins, grassy slopes, and disturbed ground throughout East Asia, from lowlands to mid mountain elevations.
Plantago major is extremely common and widespread worldwide. It is considered an invasive weed in many regions outside its native Eurasia. No conservation concerns.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15 g | daily | — | adult | Wrap-cook in cloth (bao jian) as the seeds are mucilaginous. |
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.
📝 Notes
Public notes from the community and your own private notes on Che Qian Zi.
No notes yet.