Nu Zhen Zi (Ligustri Lucidi Fructus)

Nu Zhen Zi (女貞子), the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum (glossy privet), gently tonifies Liver and Kidney yin, clears deficiency heat and benefits the eyes; mild and suitable for long-term use.

Nǚ Zhēn Zǐ  ·  女貞子

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Ligustrum lucidum (Fructus Ligustri Lucidi)

Common English Name

Glossy privet fruit

Taste

Sweet, bitter

Temperature

Cool

Channels Entered

Liver, Kidney

Actions & Functions

  • Nourishes Liver and Kidney yin
  • Clears deficiency heat and benefits the eyes
  • Helps darken the hair

Indications

Liver and Kidney yin deficiency with dizziness, blurred vision, premature greying, weak lower back and knees, and low-grade fever.

Dosage

6-15 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Han Lian Cao (Er Zhi Wan) to nourish Liver and Kidney yin.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid in yang deficiency with diarrhoea from cold.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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