Huo Ma Ren - Hemp Seeds
TCM Materia Medica
Huo Ma Ren TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "huo ma ren" which in english is "hemp seeds", is categorized within the "herbs that drain downward" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the large intestine, spleen and stomach channels and exhibits neutral (ping) and sweet (gan) taste/temperature properties.
Dosages and preparations will vary according to each individual and the overall approach of a formula, but generally this herb has the following dosage and/or preparation guidelines:
- Dosage: 9-15g
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
- Moistens and nourishes the intestines - constipation in the elderly, aftermath of a febrile disease, postpartum, and in cases of blood deficiency.
- Mildly nourishes yin - constipation with yin deficiency.
- Clears heat - promotes healing of sores (orally or topically).
Huo Ma Ren has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).
- Toxic - overdose may caus nausea, vomiting, and/or coma.
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, huo ma ren is generally included in the following 1 formula:
ViewMa Zi Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Formula)
Constipation with dry/difficult to expel stools along with frequent urination. Pulse will be submerged and rapid or floating and choppy and the Tongue will have a dry, yellow coating.
As noted above, huo ma ren is within the herbs that drain downward functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.
(truncated intro "... purgatives - constipation from interior-heat or interior-cold (both are interior excesses). moist laxatives - often nuts or seeds, lubricates the intestines; mild in nature - elderly or weakness from febrile disease or from child birth. h…)".
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