Use of Nuo Dao Gen (glutinous rice roots) in TCM
Please note that you should never self-prescribe TCM ingredients. A TCM ingredient is almost never eaten on its own but as part of a formula containing several ingredients that act together. Please consult a professional TCM practitioner, they will be best able to guide you.
Preparation: In the summer and autumn, after the glutinous rice is harvested, take the rhizomes and fibrous roots, remove the remaining stems, wash clean, and dry in the sun.
Dosage: 15-60g
Main actions according to TCM*: Stops sweating caused by Yin Deficiency. Clears Empty Heat and low grade fever caused by Yin Deficient.
Primary conditions or symptoms for which Nuo Dao Gen may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Excessive sweating Night sweats Low-grade fevers Excessive thirst Hepatitis Chyluria
Key TCM concepts behind Nuo Dao Gen's properties
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Nuo Dao Gen belongs to the 'Herbs that stabilize and bind' category. This category of herbs is used for treating abnormal discharges and displacement of Organs. This includes conditions such as diarrhea, discharges from the vagina, penis or rectum as well as prolapse of the Uterus or rectum. It is important to note that herbs in this category only treat symptoms, so one should also use herbs to treat the underlying Deficiency.
Furthermore Nuo Dao Gen is Neutral in nature. This means that Nuo Dao Gen typically doesn't affect the balance in your body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Eating too many "Hot" (Yang) ingredients can lead to an imbalance whereby one has a Yang Excess. The inverse is true as well: too many "Cold" (Yin) ingredients can lead to a Yin Excess. The Neutral nature of Nuo Dao Gen means that you don't have to worry about that!
Nuo Dao Gen also tastes Sweet. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Sweet ingredients like Nuo Dao Gen tends to slow down acute reactions and detoxify the body. They also have a tonic effect because they replenish Qi and Blood.
The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Nuo Dao Gen is thought to target the Kidney, the Liver and the Lung. According to TCM, the Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. The Liver on the other hand is often referred as the body's "general" because it is in charge of regulating the movements of Qi and the Body Fluids. It also takes a leading role in balancing our emotions. In addition to performing respiration, the Lungs are thought in TCM to be a key part of the production chain for Qi and the Body Fluids that nourish the body.