Single Herb Glossary
Hēi Zhī Má 黑芝麻
| Pharmaceutical name | Sesami Semen nigrum Black sesame seeds |
| Category | Tonify Yin |
| Key Properties | Tonifies LV & KD Augments Yin and blood Lubricates the Intestines |
| Properties | Sweet Neutral |
| Tropism | KD, LV, LI |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Nourishes & Fortifies LV, & KD (dizziness, tinnitus, vertigo, premature graying) 2) Nourishes Blood, Extinguishes Wind (Headache, dizziness) 3) Moistens & Lubricates Intestines |
| Dosages | 9-30g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Diarrhea due to Spleen deficiency; caution with toothache from rising fire |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Lignans, sesamin, sesamdin, sesamol, vitamin E, pedaliin, protein, planteose, sesamose, cytochrome C |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Metabolic: administration in mice associated with reduction of plasma glucose levels and increased glycogen storage in liver and muscle tissues; at very large doses, reduces glycogen storage • Gastrointestinal: lipid content helps moisten bowel and relieve constipation |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang (Eliminate Dryness and Rescue the Lungs Decoctions) 清燥救肺湯 |
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.