Fu Xiao Mai
Triticum aestivum
Synonyms: Triticum sativum, Triticum cereale var. aestivum, Triticum aristatum aestivum, Triticum vulgare var. aristatum, Triticum sativum var. vulgare, Triticum sativum subsp. vulgare, Triticum aestivum subsp. vulgare, Triticum sativum var. aestivum, Frumentum triticum, Triticum vulgare var. aestivum, Triticum vulgare subsp. aestivum, Triticum vulgare
☯ TCM Properties
Stops excessive sweating due to Deficiency (spontaneous sweating due to Qi Deficiency, night sweats due to Yin Deficiency, postpartum Deficiency sweat, steaming bones); Nourishes the Heart and calms the Spirit; Stops bed wetting in children
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Triticum aestivum is an annual grass reaching 60-120 cm tall, with erect, hollow, jointed culms and flat, linear leaves 5-15 mm wide. The inflorescence is a dense, erect spike (ear) 5-15 cm long. The grain (caryopsis) is oval, 5-8 mm long. In TCM, the shriveled, light, hollow grains (blighted wheat) are used rather than the full grains.
Cultivated in fields and agricultural land worldwide; one of the most widely grown cereal crops in temperate regions.
Triticum aestivum is one of the most widely cultivated crops worldwide. It is a domesticated species maintained through agriculture with no conservation concerns.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Fu Xiao Mai (light wheat grain, blighted wheat) is a mild, sweet herb primarily used to stop excessive or spontaneous sweating in both deficiency patterns. It is particularly suited to night sweats and the hot flushes of menopausal transition, as well as the spontaneous daytime sweating that signals weakness of protective Wei Qi. It also has a calming quality that eases emotional distress and the sensation of heat in the bones associated with deficiency patterns.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
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.