Tu Fu Ling
Smilax glabra Roxb.
โฏ TCM Properties
Resolves Toxicity; Drains Dampness; Frees the Joints and Channels; Clears Heat-Toxin from the Skin; Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Smilax glabra (Tu Fu Ling, glabrous greenbrier) is a perennial evergreen climber in the Smilacaceae family, scrambling through shrubs and small trees by means of paired tendrils arising from the petiole bases. The slender, smooth, woody stems are unarmed (unlike many congeners), and bear alternate, leathery, ovate-elliptic to lanceolate leaves 6 to 15 centimeters long, with three to five prominent longitudinal veins and a glossy dark green upper surface paling beneath. Small greenish-white flowers are borne in axillary umbels, dioecious, with six tepals and either six stamens or a three-locular ovary. The fruits are globose berries 6 to 8 millimeters in diameter, ripening from green through red to purple-black, each containing two or three seeds. The medicinal rhizome is large, irregular, knotty, hard, and reddish-brown to brownish-yellow externally with pale pinkish flesh, harvested in summer or autumn, sliced, and dried. Native to southern China, Vietnam, Thailand, India, and the eastern Himalaya.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Bai Ji Li (tribulus fruit, caltrop fruit) is a mild, bitter-pungent herb that disperses Wind and Heat affecting the Liver channel and anchors rising Liver Yang. It is used for headaches, dizziness, and eye conditions โ including red, itchy, swollen eyes and visual disturbances โ related to Wind-Heat or ascending Liver Yang. Its secondary action on the skin makes it helpful for itching and skin conditions from Wind.
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.