Ye Jiao Teng
Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.
☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes the Heart and Calms the Spirit; Nourishes Blood; Disperses Wind; Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals; Relieves Itching
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Ye Jiao Teng is the dried aerial stem (caulis) of Polygonum multiflorum (syn. Reynoutria multiflora, Fallopia multiflora), a perennial twining vine in the Polygonaceae family native to central and southern China and Japan. The vine climbs 2-4 m via slender, glabrous, often reddish stems arising from large tuberous roots (the source of He Shou Wu). Leaves are alternate, ovate to cordate, 3-7 cm long, with entire margins and a basal ocrea. Small whitish flowers are borne in terminal panicles in late summer, followed by three-winged achenes. Stems are harvested in autumn, cut into segments, and dried.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ye Jiao Teng (polygonum vine, fleeceflower vine) is a sweet, neutral herb used in Chinese medicine to nourish Blood, calm the Spirit, and open the channels to relieve itching skin conditions. It is particularly well suited for insomnia from Blood deficiency with an empty, restless quality, and for anxiety and palpitations from Heart and Liver Blood deficiency. Its channel-opening properties also address numbness, pain, and stiffness from Blood deficiency failing to nourish the sinew and channels, as well as itchy, deficiency-type skin conditions.
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.