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Yu Mi Xu 玉米鬚

Pharmaceutical name Maydis Stigma Corn silk “jade rice whiskers”
Category Drain Damp
Key Properties Reduces edema and pain due to painful urinary dribbling
Properties Sweet
Bland
Neutral
Tropism UB, GB, LV
Actions & Indications 1) Promote Urine, Reduce Edema, Unblock Lin
2) Clear Damp Heat from LV/GB
(Modern use: diabetes, HTN (hypervolemia))
Dosages 15-30 g
Contraindications (TCM)
Contraindications (Western)
Chemical Composition Crytoxanthin, resin, saponins, alkaloids, ascorbic acid, vitamin K, sitosterol, stigmasterol, malic acid, palmitic acid, tartaric acid, oxalic acid, pantothenic acid
Pharmacological Effects • Diuretic: associated with increase in excretion of urine and chloride in humans and rabbits
• Antihypertensive: intravenous injection in dogs associated with reduction of blood pressure; continuous administration for 3 weeks, however, showed no permanent change of animals' blood pressure
• Cholagogic: stimulates production and excretion of bile acid; also decreases the viscosity of bile
• Others: antidiabetic and hemostatic effects
Herb-Drug Interactions • Warfarin (Coumadin): Yu Mi Xu contains vitamin K, which may reduce anticoagulant effect of warfarin; concurrent use of the herb and the drug should be monitored carefully to avoid the formation of blood dots
• Diuretics: prudent to avoid combination of herbs and drugs that exert diuretic effects, as there may be additive or synergistic effects; combination therapy may lead to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes
Classical Formula(s)


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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.