Single Herb Glossary
Tiān Mén Dōng 天門冬
| Pharmaceutical name | Asparagi Radix asparagus tuber "heavenly gate winter" |
| Category | Tonify Yin |
| Key Properties | Tonifies Yin of LU & KD Generates Fluids Cools Heat due to Yin Deficiency |
| Properties | Sweet Bitter V. cold |
| Tropism | KD, LU |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Nourishes KD Yin & Clears LU Heat 2) Moistens LU, Nourishes KD, & Generates Fluids (consumption (TB LU), Xiao Ke) |
| Dosages | 6-12g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Diarrhea from Deficiency or Cold, cough due to Cold-Wind |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Asparagine, β-sitosterol, 5-methoxy-methylfurfural, smilagenin, neo-ketose |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antibiotic: decoction has inhibitory effect against Bacillus anthracis, α-hemolytic streptococcus, β-hemolytic streptococcus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, S. aureus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and Bacillus subtilis • Antineoplastic: alcohol extract demonstrated inhibitory effect against sarcoma in mice |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang (Sedate the Liver and Extinquish Wind Decoction) 鎮肝熄風湯 Da Zao Wan (Great Creation Pill) 大造丸 Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (Emperor of Heavens Special Pill to Tonify the HT) 天王補心丹 (天王补心丹) Zi Yin Jiang Huo Tang (Decoction to Enrich the Yin and Direct Fire Downward) 滋陰降火湯 |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.