Dong Kui Zi
Malva verticillata L.
☯ TCM Properties
Promotes Urination and Relieves Stranguria; Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels; Promotes Lactation; Reduces Swelling
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Malva verticillata is an annual or short-lived perennial herb in the Malvaceae family native to temperate Eurasia and widely grown in East Asia as both a leafy vegetable and a medicinal seed source. Erect or ascending stems reach 60-200 cm tall, slightly hairy and ridged, bearing alternate, long-petioled, rounded leaves 5-12 cm wide with 5-7 shallow rounded lobes, crenate margins, and palmate venation. Small pale pink to white five-petalled flowers about 5-8 mm across are crowded in dense axillary clusters along the upper stem, each subtended by linear bracteoles. The schizocarp fruit (mericarp) characteristic of mallows splits at maturity into about 10-12 wedge-shaped one-seeded segments arranged in a flat disk like a tiny wheel of cheese; these small, kidney-shaped, light brown seeds are the Dong Kui Zi of Chinese medicine.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Dong Kui Zi (mallow seed, malva seed) is a cool, sweet herb used in Chinese medicine to promote urination and clear Damp-Heat from the Bladder, support lactation in postpartum women, and moisten the Intestines to relieve constipation from dryness. Its triple action on the urinary, lactation, and digestive systems reflects its broad mucilaginous and moistening properties. As a gentle, food-grade herb, it is appropriate for everyday use in mild Damp-Heat urinary conditions and insufficient lactation.
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.