Nature: sweet, neutral

Enters: Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen

Actions: Slightly nourishes blood/Yin; moistens the large intestine to promote bowel movement; clears heat; promotes healing of sores.

Indications:
• Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency, or body fluid deficiency: constipation, especially in the elderly, postpartum, or after febrile disease.
• This herb must be ground before use.
• An auxiliary herb for sores and ulcerations. Taken orally or applied topically.
• Mildly lowers blood pressure.
• Doses over 60g may cause nausea, vomiting, restlessness, diarrhea.
• Sometimes the name Ma Zi Ren is used to refer to flax seed.

Dose: 9-30g (to 45g when used as the principal herb in a prescription)