Lai Fu Zi - Radish/Turnip Seeds

TCM Materia Medica

Lai Fu Zi TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

Full List by Function by Channel by Property
Theory

The TCM herb "lai fu zi" which in english is "radish/turnip seeds", is categorized within the "herbs that relieve food stagnation" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the lung, spleen and stomach channels and exhibits acrid, 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: 6-12g (raw for stagnation, dry-fried for cough)

Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:

  • Reduces food stagnation, transforms accumulations - distention, belching with a rotten smell, acid regurgitation.
  • Descends lung qi, reduces phlegm - chronic cough or wheezing due to excess syndromes.

Lai Fu Zi has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).

  • Avoid in cases of Stomach Fire.
  • Avoid during Pregnancy.

While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, lai fu zi is generally included in the following 2 formulas:

ViewBao He Wan (Preserve Harmony Pills)

Epigastric and or abdominal fullness or painful distention after meals. Acid reflux, belching, vomiting with possible aversion to food due to food stagnation. This formula can also be used for acut…

ViewEr Chen He San Zi Yang Qin Wan (Two Aged Herbs & Three Seeds Nursing Pills)

Modified version of er chen wan - formula for clearing phlegm in both acute and chronic cases - seasonal colds and flus with phlegm, chronic wet cough, sinus issues and more physical signs such as di…

As noted above, lai fu zi is within the herbs that relieve food stagnation functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

(truncated intro "... food stagnation often arises from emotional disturbances which cause the qi and/or blood to stagnate, improper dietary habits, phlegm, heat, and/or cold disorders. hot/cold types: hot: bad breath, distention, preference for cold food/dr…)".

Gu YaJi Nei JinLai Fu ZiMai YaShan ZhaShen Qu

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