He Geng
Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.
โฏ TCM Properties
Clears Summer-Heat; Regulates Qi and Widens the Chest; Drains Dampness; Harmonizes the Stomach; Promotes Urination
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus) is a large rhizomatous aquatic perennial in the Nelumbonaceae family, rooted in the mud of ponds, lakes, and slow streams across tropical and warm-temperate Asia and northeastern Australia. From a thick, jointed, cylindrical, creeping rhizome arise long, hollow, finely prickly petioles that lift the round, peltate, blue-green, water-repellent leaf blades 30-90 cm across well above the water surface. Solitary, fragrant, pink or white flowers up to 25 cm across are borne on similarly long, stout, hollow peduncles; each flower has many petals and a flat-topped, perforated, obconic receptacle that develops into the characteristic woody seed pod. He Geng denotes specifically the dried leaf petiole, a long, greenish to brownish, internally hollow, prickly cylindrical stalk (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
He Geng (lotus petiole and stem) is a light, mild herb used primarily in summer to address discomfort from hot, humid seasonal conditions. It relieves chest stuffiness, mild headache, and digestive upset associated with summerheat and dampness. Its gentle Qi-regulating action makes it appropriate for a range of summer heat complaints, and it has a traditional application in easing nausea and stomach discomfort during pregnancy.
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.