Bi Xie
Dioscorea hypoglauca Palibin
☯ TCM Properties
Separates the Clear from the Turbid; Drains Dampness and Resolves Turbidity; Dispels Wind-Dampness; Relieves Painful Obstruction; Clears Damp-Heat from the Skin
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Dioscorea hypoglauca (and several closely related species treated together pharmaceutically), source of Bi Xie, is a perennial twining vine in the Dioscoreaceae family, native to central and southern China. The slender herbaceous stems climb 1-5 m from a stout, hard, woody, irregularly branched rhizome that runs horizontally near the soil surface. Leaves are alternate, broadly cordate to triangular-ovate, 5-15 cm long, palmately veined with 7-9 main veins from the heart-shaped base and an acuminate tip; lower surfaces are glaucous. Small unisexual flowers are borne in axillary spikes or panicles, the females producing three-winged dehiscent capsules. Rhizomes are dug in autumn and winter, sliced and dried.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Bi Xie (dioscorea hypoglauca rhizome) is a bitter, neutral herb used in Chinese medicine primarily to separate turbidity from clarity in the urinary system — addressing cloudy, turbid urine and urinary discomfort from Damp-Heat or Damp-Cold in the Bladder. Its damp-clearing action also extends to joint conditions with heaviness and stiffness from Dampness, and to weeping skin conditions like eczema from Damp obstruction. It is often described as the body's fluid-separating herb.
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.