☯ TCM Properties
Expels water and resolves swelling; Breaks up Blood Stasis and eliminates masses; Kills parasites
Traditional Chinese Uses
Qian Jin Zi (Semen Euphorbiae Lathyridis) is the mature seed of caper spurge, Euphorbia lathyris, a harsh, downward-draining purgative. Acrid and warm with recognized toxicity, entering the Lung, Stomach, Kidney, Liver and Large Intestine channels, it drives out Water and disperses swelling for severe edema, ascites and water accumulation with constipation, and it breaks up Blood Stasis to eliminate abdominal masses and treat amenorrhea from stasis. It also kills parasites and is applied externally to stubborn skin lesions, warts and toxic sores.
Because of its toxicity and drastic action, it is used in very small doses, most often as the de-oiled powder (Qian Jin Zi Shuang) prepared by pressing out the fixed oil to reduce harsh purging, and it is given only to robust patients with excess patterns. It is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy and in weak or deficient patients, and can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting and irritation.
Botanical Description
Qian Jin Zi is the mature seed of Euphorbia lathyris L. (Euphorbiaceae), known as caper spurge or mole plant, a biennial herb 60-120 cm tall native to the Mediterranean and now widely naturalized in temperate China. The erect, glaucous, blue-green stem exudes a copious irritant white latex when broken. Sessile, opposite, lanceolate to linear leaves are arranged in decussate pairs, giving the plant a strikingly geometric appearance. Yellow-green cyathia held within paired heart-shaped bracts produce three-lobed capsules 8-15 mm wide; each capsule splits explosively to release three smooth, oval, brown seeds 5-6 mm long with reticulate testae. The seeds are processed (often de-fatted as Qian Jin Zi Shuang) before use and are classified as drastic purgatives that drive out water retention. They are highly toxic and irritant; modern practice limits internal use to processed seeds in carefully controlled small doses by trained practitioners only.
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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