Wang Bu Liu Xing
Vaccaria segetalis (Neck.) Garcke
β― TCM Properties
Invigorates Blood and Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals; Promotes Lactation; Disperses Swelling and Dissipates Abscesses; Promotes Urination and Relieves Stranguria
Botanical Description
Vaccaria hispanica (Mill.) Rauschert (syn. V. segetalis, V. pyramidata; Caryophyllaceae), known as cowherb or cow soapwort, is a slender annual herb 30-80 cm tall with smooth, glaucous, dichotomously branched stems. The opposite, sessile, lanceolate to ovate leaves are entire and somewhat clasping. Loose, terminal cymes carry pink, five-petaled flowers about 1.5 cm across, subtended by an inflated, five-angled calyx that persists around the fruit. The capsule contains numerous small, globose, blackish seeds (Wang Bu Liu Xing). A weed of cultivated grain fields in temperate Eurasia, the plant has naturalized widely; only the dried ripe seed is used medicinally in traditional Chinese practice to invigorate blood circulation, unblock the channels, promote lactation, and reduce swelling.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | β | β | β |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Wang Bu Liu Xing (vaccaria seed) is a warm, bitter herb that promotes the free flow of Blood and Qi in the channels β particularly the Liver and Stomach channels connected to the breast and uterus. It is used to stimulate lactation in postpartum women with insufficient milk flow, for menstrual irregularities and dysmenorrhea from Blood stagnation, and for inflammatory swellings and abscesses. It is also widely used as a seed pellet in auricular acupressure therapy.
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.