Yu Zhu (Polygonati Odorati Rhizoma)

Yu Zhu (玉竹), the rhizome of Polygonatum odoratum, gently nourishes the yin of the Lung and Stomach and moistens dryness; it is enriching yet not cloying, so it can be used even with lingering exterior conditions.

Yù Zhú  ·  玉竹

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Polygonatum odoratum (Rhizoma Polygonati Odorati)

Common English Name

Solomon's seal rhizome

Taste

Sweet

Temperature

Slightly cold

Channels Entered

Lung, Stomach

Actions & Functions

  • Nourishes Lung and Stomach yin and moistens dryness
  • Generates fluids and relieves thirst

Indications

Lung and Stomach yin deficiency with dry cough, dry throat and thirst; and yin deficiency complicated by an exterior pattern.

Dosage

6-15 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Bei Sha Shen and Mai Men Dong to nourish Lung and Stomach yin.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid in cough from cold-damp and in Spleen-deficient diarrhoea.

About Attilio

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

Check Also

PubMed research

Network Meta-Analysis Finds Chinese Herbal Decoctions Improve Outcomes and Reduce Side Effects in Breast Cancer Treatment

Research summary (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine decoctions in breast cancer treatment: a network meta-analysis. - Frontiers in oncology, 2026.