Wu Yi
Torreya grandis Fort.
โฏ TCM Properties
Expels Parasites; Resolves Accumulation; Moistens the Lungs and Stops Cough; Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels
Botanical Description
Torreya grandis is a dioecious evergreen coniferous tree of the family Taxaceae, native to eastern China and reaching 12-25 m in height with a broadly conical crown and dark grey, fissured bark. The linear-lanceolate leaves are 1.5-3 cm long, dark glossy green above with two pale stomatal bands beneath, arranged in two ranks along the twigs and ending in a sharp point. Male and female cones are borne on separate trees; the seed is enclosed in a fleshy, glaucous green to purplish aril 2-3 cm long, ripening in the autumn of the second year. The kernel is hard-shelled, oily, almond-like in flavour and has long been gathered as both food and medicine in Zhejiang and Anhui provinces.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| poultice | As needed | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Wu Yi (torreya seed) is a mild, sweet-tasting herb used in Chinese medicine to expel intestinal parasites โ including tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms โ without damaging Qi or Blood. Its moist, oily quality also lubricates the intestines to relieve constipation, and its mild Lung-moistening action addresses dry coughs. As one of the gentler antiparasitic herbs, it is considered appropriate even for those with weaker constitutions.
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.