Jué míng zi (Cassia Seed; 决明子) has heat-clearing properties that can help soothe the liver and large intestines. It is thus commonly used in TCM to treat eye problems and constipation.
Benefits:
● Clears liver heat and thereby alleviates high blood pressure, headache and dizziness caused by hyperactivity of the liver Yang.
● Dispels wind-heat to relieve symptoms such as painful and red eyes, dryness in the eyes, blurry or dim vision, and light sensitivity.
● Moistens the intestines and promotes bowel movement.
● Reduces and regulates cholesterol.
Contraindications:
Please use with caution for individuals experiencing loose stools due to Qi deficiency.
Dosage:
9g to 15g
Suggested use:
Boil in water to make a herbal brew. Cassia seed is commonly paired with herbs such as chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, osmanthus, rose buds, hawthorn, lotus leaf, burdock root, wolfberry, and red date.
How to brew cassia seed tea:
Rinse herbs and slice red dates in halves and remove their seeds before use. Add 2 teaspoons of cassia seeds (决明子), 2 teaspoons of chrysanthemum buds (胎菊), 5 hawthorn fruit slices (山楂), and 5 red dates (红枣) in 500ml of water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer under low heat for 15 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of wolfberries (枸杞) in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Let it cool down for a bit before adding some honey. Serve it warm. This healthy tea aids in supporting healthy weight loss, improving eyesight, and alleviating constipation. (Serving size: 1 to 2)
Find more cassia seed tea recipes here.
In TCM, every organ has its own Yin and Yang manifestation. Yin represents the energy that is responsible for moistening and cooling bodily functions, whereas Yang energy is warming, moving, stimulating, and manifests as physical strength and stamina. A harmonious balance of Yin and Yang is key to good health.
Insufficient sleep, excessive anger, and excessive intake of spicy food and alcohol can lead to constipation and hyperactivity of the liver Yang — with the latter resulting in high blood pressure, bloodshot eyes, dizziness, etc.
Note:
The information above serves as a general guide only. Please consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Ingredients:
Jué míng zi (Cassia Seeds; 决明子)
Origin:
Szechuan, China
