Use of Chong Wei Zi (motherwort fruits) 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: Collects the fruits or seeds, removes impurities and dry.
Dosage: 3-15g
Main actions according to TCM*: Invigorates the Blood and regulates menstruation. Clears the Liver so as to brightens the eyes.
Primary conditions or symptoms for which Chong Wei Zi may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Irregular menstruation Dysmenorrhea Amenorrhea Postpartum abdominal pain Headache Red eyes Swollen eyes Painful eyes Nebulae Conjunctivitis Pterygium Painful menstruation Dizziness
Contraindications*: This product is not recommended for individuals with continuous bleeding, during pregnancy, or those with Liver Stagnation due to Liver Blood Deficiency. Additionally, toxic reactions may occur if more than 20-30g is ingested.
Key TCM concepts behind Chong Wei Zi's properties
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chong Wei Zi belongs to the 'Herbs that invigorate the Blood' category. Like the name indicates these herbs tend to stimulate the Blood flow. In TCM they're used to help the circulation of Blood in cardiovascular conditions or menstrual irregularities as well as to treat acute pains caused by Blood Stagnation. They can also be used to treat Blood Stagnation when it causes certain tumors, cysts and hardened clots.
Furthermore Chong Wei Zi is Cold in nature. This means that Chong Wei Zi typically helps people who have too much 'Heat' in their body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Heat in their body are said to either have a Yang Excess (because Yang is Hot in nature) or a Yin deficiency (Yin is Cold in Nature). Depending on your condition Chong Wei Zi can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.
Chong Wei Zi 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 Chong Wei Zi 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 Chong Wei Zi is thought to target the Spleen and the Liver. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in 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.