Chong Wei Zi
Leonurus japonicus Houtt.
☯ TCM Properties
Invigorates Blood and Regulates Menstruation; Clears Liver Heat and Brightens the Eyes; Disperses Wind-Heat; Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema
Botanical Description
Leonurus japonicus is an erect annual or biennial herb in the Lamiaceae, reaching 60-120 cm with a square, finely pubescent stem. The lower leaves are long-petiolate and palmately three- to five-lobed; upper stem leaves become progressively narrower and deeply divided into linear segments. Small pinkish to pale purple two-lipped flowers are borne in dense axillary verticillasters along the upper stem. Each flower produces four small, three-sided, brown-grey nutlets (achenes) about 2-3 mm long enclosed by the persistent spiny calyx. These dried ripe fruits, harvested in autumn when the lower fruits ripen, constitute the medicinal Chong Wei Zi. The species is widespread across East Asia in fields, roadsides, and waste ground.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Chong Wei Zi (leonurus fruit, motherwort fruit) is a cool herb with the same Blood-activating, menstrual-regulating channel as its better-known counterpart Yi Mu Cao (motherwort herb). It is used for menstrual irregularities, painful menstruation, and Blood stasis patterns affecting the uterus. It also has a significant eye-brightening application — clearing Liver Heat to relieve red, swollen eyes and visual disturbances, which distinguishes it clinically from the leaf and stem preparation.
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.