Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi)

Pharmaceutical Name: Fructus Cnidii

Botanical Name: Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cuss.

Common Name: Cnidium fruit

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The ripe fruit is collected in autumn, and then dried in the sun.

Properties & Taste: Pungent, bitter and warm

Meridian: Kidney

Functions:
1. To warm the kidneys and strengthen the yang;
2. To dispel dampness and kill worms

Indications & Combinations:
1. Deficient yang of the kidneys manifested as impotence or infertility. Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi) is used with Schisandra fruit (Wuweizi) and Dadder seed (Tusizi).

2. Vaginal trichomoniasis. The decoction of Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi) is used as a douche.

Dosage: 3-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated in cases with deficiency of yin with excessive fire or damp-heat.