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Lai Fu Zi (萊菔子), radish seed, reduces food stagnation and relieves distension, and descends rebellious qi to transform phlegm and calm cough and wheezing.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Raphanus sativus (Semen Raphani)
Common English Name
Radish seed
Taste
Acrid, sweet
Temperature
Neutral
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Lung
Actions & Functions
- Reduces food stagnation and relieves distension
- Descends qi and transforms phlegm (cough, wheezing)
Indications
Food stagnation with abdominal distension, belching and acid regurgitation; and cough and wheezing with copious phlegm and a stifling chest.
Dosage
6-12 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Su Zi and Bai Jie Zi (San Zi Yang Qin Tang) for phlegm cough with food stagnation.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in qi deficiency without stagnation; classically said to weaken the action of Ren Shen.
