Zhu Ru
Phyllostachys nigra (Lodd.) Munro var. henonis (Mitf.) Stapf ex Rendle
β― TCM Properties
Clears Heat and Transforms Phlegm; Clears Stomach Heat and stops vomiting; Eliminates Irritability; Cools the Blood and Stops Bleeding
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Phyllostachys nigra var. henonis is a large, fast-growing, running bamboo in the Poaceae family, native to China and widely cultivated for timber and medicinal use. It forms open groves of erect, woody culms reaching 7-18 meters in height and 5-10 cm in diameter at the base, with internodes 25-40 cm long. Unlike the type variety with black culms, this variety retains green to yellow-green stems throughout life, becoming slightly grooved above each branched node. The branches bear narrowly lanceolate leaves, 6-10 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide, with finely serrate margins and tessellated venation. Flowering is rare and gregarious, occurring at long intervals. For TCM use, sections of fresh young culm are taken; the green outer epidermis is scraped away and the underlying pale-green inner stem is shaved into thin curling strips (Zhu Ru). Zhu Ru is classified as a sweet, slightly cold herb that clears heat and resolves phlegm.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | β | β | β |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zhu Ru (bamboo shavings) is a cool herb that clears heat and transforms phlegm in the Lungs and Stomach. It is used for coughs with yellow, sticky phlegm associated with Lung Heat, and for nausea, vomiting, and hiccup caused by Stomach Heat or Phlegm-Heat obstructing the middle burner. Its cooling, descending quality also extends to calming restlessness and palpitations when heat disturbs the Heart.
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.