Flat-Stem Milkvetch Seed (Sha Yuan Zi)

沙苑子
Flattened milkvetch seed (Shayuanzi)

Pharmaceutical Name: Semen Astragali complanati (Leguminosae)

Botanical Name: Astragalus complanatus R. Br.

Common Name: Flatstem milkvetch seed

Source of Earliest Record: Bencao Yanyi

Part Used: The ripe seeds are collected in late autumn or early winter. The seeds are then fried with salt water.

Natural Properties & Taste: Sweet and warm

Meridians: Liver and kidney

Therapeutic Effects:
1. To tonify the kidneys and control essence.
2. To nourish the liver and brighten the eyes.

Indications:
1. Deficient kidneys manifested as impotence, seminal emissions, premature ejaculation or leukorrhea. Flattened milkvetch seed (Shayuanzi) is used with Dragon’s bone (Longgu), Oyster shell (Muli) and Euryale seed (Qianshi).

2. Blurred vision due to deficiency of liver blood. Flattened milkvetch seed (Shayuanzi) is used with Dadder seed (Tusizi), Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua), Wolfberry fruit (Gouqizi) and Grossy privet fruit (Nuzhenzi).

Dosage: 10-20 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated in cases with deficiency of yin with excessive fire, as well as dysuria.