Song Zi Ren
Pinus koraiensis Siebold & Zucc.
☯ TCM Properties
Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels; Moistens the Lungs and Stops Cough; Moistens Dryness; Tonifies Deficiency and Strengthens the Body
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine) is a large evergreen coniferous tree in the Pinaceae family, native to northeastern China, the Korean peninsula, the Russian Far East, and central Japan, reaching 30-40 m tall with a straight trunk to 1.5 m in diameter and a dense, dome-shaped crown. The bark is grey-brown, scaly, becoming fissured with age. The needle-like leaves are borne in fascicles of five, slender, 6-12 cm long, dark green with white stomatal bands on their inner faces. The seed cones are large, ovoid-cylindric, 9-15 cm long, ripening from green to red-brown over two years, with thick woody scales that do not open at maturity. Each cone holds 100-160 large wingless seeds (pine nuts) about 14-16 mm long with a hard shell and oily edible kernel (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Song Zi Ren (pine nut kernel) is a mild, oily, slightly warm herb used to moisten the Intestines and relieve dry constipation, as well as to nourish Lung Yin and stop dry coughs. Its rich fatty content gently lubricates the digestive and respiratory passages without harsh laxative effects, making it appropriate for the elderly, those who are constitutionally dry, and anyone recovering from illness. It is commonly eaten in congee or taken as a simple daily supplement.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
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.