Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing)

Pharmaceutical Name : Semen Vaccariae

Botanical Name : Vaccaria segetalis (Neck.) Garcke

Common Name: Vacarria seed, Cow soapwort seed

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations : The whole plant is harvested in June or July. After it has been dried in the sun, the seeds are removed from their shells. They are then dried again.

Properties & Taste : Bitter and neutral

Meridians: Liver and stomach

Functions: 1. To invigorate blood and promote menstruation; 2. To promote lactation

Indications & Combinations:

1. Dysmenorrhea by retardation of blood circulation or amenorrhea caused by blood stagnation. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Chinese angelica root (Danggui), Chuanxiong rhizome (Chuanxiong), Safflower (Honghua) and Motherwort (Yimucao).

2. Postpartum insufficient lactation. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Pangolin scales (Chuanshanjia) and Rice paper pith (Tongcao). If there is deficiency of qi and blood, Astragalus root (Huangqi) and Chinese angelica root (Danggui) are added.

3. Mastitis with pain and swollen breasts. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Dandelion herb (Pugongying), Honeysuckle flower (Jinyinhua) and Trichosanthes fruit (Gualou).

Dosage: 6-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb should be used with caution during pregnancy.