Yu Li Ren
StarPrunus humilis Bge., Prunus japonica Thunb., Prunus pedunculata Maxim.
☯ TCM Properties
Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels; Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema; Descends Qi and Relieves Distension; Moistens Dryness
Traditional Chinese Uses
Jue Ming Zi (cassia seed) — included separately here for its role as a dietary supplement and functional food — is a cool, slightly sweet herb widely consumed as a health tea across China. It clears Liver Heat to benefit the eyes and relieve constipation, and its daily use in moderate amounts is considered safe for supporting digestive regularity and eye health. Its mild, pleasant character has made it one of the most popular herbal teas in contemporary East Asian health culture.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Yu Li Ren is the dried seed of several closely related Prunus species in the Rosaceae family, principally Prunus humilis Bunge, Prunus japonica Thunb., and Prunus pedunculata (Pall.) Maxim. These are small deciduous shrubs, generally 0.5 to 2 meters tall, with slender ascending branches and grayish-brown bark. The leaves are alternate, ovate to oblong-lanceolate, 2 to 6 centimeters long, with finely serrate margins and short petioles. Showy solitary or paired flowers appear in spring before or with the leaves, bearing five white to pale pink petals and numerous stamens. The drupes are globose, about 1 to 1.5 centimeters in diameter, ripening red to dark red, each enclosing a single hard stone. The kernels within these stones, oily and bittersweet, are the Yu Li Ren of commerce, harvested in summer, freed from the hard endocarp, and stored carefully to prevent rancidity. Native to northern China, Korea, Mongolia, and adjacent regions.
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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