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Latin pharmacognostic name: Nelumbinis Fructus/Semen

Alternate Chinese names: 莲蓬子 lián péng zǐ; 莲实 lián shí

Kingdom: Plant

Origin in PRC Pharmacopoeia: Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (PRC Pharmacopoeia)

Origin (other sources): Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.

Use: Medicinal

Category: Astringing agents / Intestine-astringing diarrhea-checking agents

Properties: Sweet, astringent; balanced.

Channel entry: Spleen, kidney, and heart channels.

Indications:

• Boosts the kidney and secures essence: Seminal emission or enuresis due to kidney vacuity.
• Supplements the spleen and checks diarrhea: Spleen vacuity with reduced eating and enduring diarrhea.
• Checks vaginal discharge: Excessive vaginal discharge.
• Nourishes the heart: Vacuity vexation, heart palpitation, insomnia.

Dosage & Method: Oral: 10–15g in decoctions; remove the plumule (see also lián zǐ xīn) and crush before use. Lián zǐ is a very common ingredient in Chinese medicinal cooking.

Warnings: Unsuitable for patients with dry bound stool.

Notes: This is either the whole fruit including the black shell, or the seed within. If the whole fruit is used, it must be cracked open before decocting.

See also: Lián ròu (莲肉 Nelumbinis Semen, lotus seed)

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