Single Herb Glossary
Che Qian Zi 車前子
| Pharmaceutical name | Plantaginis Semen Plantago asiatica seed |
| Category | Drain Damp |
| Key Properties | Facilitates urination Separates the clear and turbid fluids Guides damp-heat downward and out of the body through the urine |
| Properties | Sweet Cold |
| Tropism | UB, KD, LV, LU |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Promotes Urination & Clears Damp-Heat 2) Promotes Urination to Solidify the Stool (Damp heat diarrhea) 3) Clears the Eyes 4) Expels Phlegm & Stops Cough (LU Heat) |
| Dosages | 9-15g; kept separate in a cloth bag |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution during pregnancy |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Planterolic acid, plantagin, plantenolic acid, plantasan, D-xylose, D-galacturonic acid, L-rhamnose, D-galactose, L-arabinose |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Diuretic: conflicting reports on effectiveness of Che Qian Zi as a diuretic; older reports stated that it may increase excretion of urine, newer reports on healthy humans and animals showed no diuretic effect • Antitussive and expectorant: both Che Qian Zi and Che Qian Cao (Herba Plantaginis) have expectorant and antitussive effects |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Absorption: may reduce absorption of oral medications, such as lithium; may also inhibit absorption of carbohydrates, thus requiring adjustment of insulin dosage in diabetic patients • Diuretics: prudent to avoid combination of herbs and drugs that exert diuretic effects, as there may be additive or synergistic effects, possibly leading to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes |
| Classical Formula(s) |
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.