☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes Yin, subdues Yang and nourishes the Liver and Kidneys; Stops bleeding, dissipates Blood Stasis and resolves swelling; Calms the fetus
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yu Biao Jiao (fish maw isinglass), the dried swim bladder of large croakers such as Nibea albiflora, is a nourishing tonic. Sweet and neutral, entering the Liver, Kidney and Stomach, it enriches Kidney essence and Yin, subdues ascendant Liver Yang, benefits the Liver and Kidneys, stops bleeding and dissipates Blood stasis to reduce swelling, and calms a restless fetus.
Traditionally it is taken as a rich, gelatinous tonic for Kidney and essence depletion with seminal loss, lumbar weakness, dizziness and tinnitus, and to strengthen women during and after pregnancy and steady a threatened fetus. Melted into congee or wine, or dissolved in decoctions, it is also used for bleeding disorders. Being cloying, it is best avoided where Spleen deficiency with poor appetite and dampness predominate.
Botanical Description
Yu Biao (魚鰾), also called Yu Biao Jiao (魚鰾膠) or fish maw, is the dried swim bladder of various large fishes, principally species of croaker (Sciaenidae, e.g., Nibea, Pseudosciaena, Argyrosomus) and sturgeon (Acipenseridae). The bladder is removed, cleaned, flattened, and dried into translucent yellowish sheets composed largely of collagen; processed gelatin (Yu Biao Jiao) is prepared by further boiling and drying. In traditional Chinese medicine, fish maw is classified as sweet and neutral, entering the Kidney channel, and is used to tonify Kidney essence, nourish blood, stop bleeding, and benefit the sinews. Classical indications include seminal emission, infertility, lumbar weakness, hemorrhage, and slow wound healing. As an animal-derived gelatinous product, no plant fields apply.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | 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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