Yu Li Ren鬱李仁
Semen PruniBush Cherry Pit
- Category
- Moist Laxatives
- Nature
- neutral
- Taste
- pungent, bitter, sweet
- Channels entered
- Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Spleen
- Dosage
- 3–12 g
Usual doses
- Dosage
- 3–12 g
- Tincture
- 2–4 ml
Actions & indications
- Moistens the Intestines and unblocks the bowels
- Constipation due to Qi Stagnation in the Intestines
- Promotes urination and reduces edema
- Edema with difficult urination and constipation
- Leg Qi
Contraindications
- Use cautiously in pregnancy.
- Use cautiously in Yin Deficiency with depleted fluids.
Combinations
Chronic constipation from Intestinal Dryness or Qi Deficiency.
Edema accompanied by abdominal distention, constipation, and urinary retention.
Constipation with dry, hard stool.
Notes
- One source states that this herb descends Qi.
- In southern China it is used as a folk remedy for stubborn fright-induced insomnia; for this the seeds are decocted in yellow wine for ten minutes, drained, and added to the appropriate formula.
- Most commonly it treats constipation from Qi Blockage and Dryness, though it can also address abdominal and limb swelling and distention from edema.
- Dry-frying is the preferred preparation.
- It is commonly paired with Sm. Cannabis Huo Ma Ren, which lubricates Dryness and harmonizes the Middle Jiao — Yu Li Ren likewise lubricates Dryness and regulates bowel movement, but more powerfully.
- The two herbs are similar, but Huo Ma Ren is gentler and nourishing, suited to Deficiency, whereas Yu Li Ren is stronger, promotes urination, treats edema, and is used for Excess conditions.
- Dry-fried Bush Cherry Pit Chao Yu Li Ren is less oily and so less laxative; it is used mainly for edema, and is also appropriate for weak or Deficient patients and for postpartum women.