In TCM, Qiàn shí (Euryale Seed; 芡实) is commonly used to restore harmony in the spleen and kidneys, and drain dampness (excess moisture) from the body.

Benefits:
● Tonifies the spleen and relieves chronic diarrhea, loose stools, loss of appetite, etc.
● Strengthens the kidneys to preserve the essence, thereby relieving kidney deficiency symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees; incontinence; frequent urination; involuntary ejaculation of semen during sleep (nocturnal emission); premature ejaculation; involuntary loss of semen (spermatorrhea), etc.
● Alleviates abnormal vaginal discharge e.g. odorous vaginal discharge due to damp-heat; thin vaginal discharge due to spleen and kidney deficiency, etc.
● Drains dampness and stops excessive vaginal discharge

Ingredients:
Qiàn shí (Euryale Seed; 芡实)

Origin:
Yunnan, China

Dosage:
10g to 15g

Storage:
Best kept refrigerated

Suggested use:
Make your own herbal tea blend by mixing qiàn shí (芡实) with Chinese barley (薏苡仁) and red beans (红豆). This herb combination aids in eliminating dampness and reducing water retention.

Qiàn shí (芡实) is also commonly used together with huái shān (淮山), fú líng (茯苓), and lotus seeds (莲子) to create the classic Si Shen Tang (四神汤). This soup helps to regulate the digestive system and stimulate appetite.

Our spleen governs our digestive system, helps to transform food into new Qi (energy) and blood, as well as regulates the transport of fluids in the body. Poor diet and lifestyle such as prolonged stress, overworking, and high or frequent intake of raw, cold, greasy, and spicy foods can weaken our spleen. This in turn impedes fluid distribution and removal of waste from the body, leading to the accumulation of dampness (excess moisture) in the body.

Dampness is commonly associated with edema (water retention); phlegm in the lungs; loose stools or diarrhea; stomach distension; achy joints and limbs; gout; excess weight gain; fatty deposits build-up in the arteries; eczema flare-up; susceptibility to acne; oily skin; cysts; excessive vaginal discharge; a vaginal yeast infection; sinus infections, etc.

On the other hand, our kidneys perform a broader range of functions than just regulating the body's fluid balance and excreting waste. They store our body’s essence (life force energy), which can be transformed into Qi and blood, and forms the foundation of Yin and Yang in the body. The kidneys are vital in supporting our growth, development, reproductive and sexual health. Our bones, joints, marrow, brain, hair, teeth, hearing, and even the lungs’ reception of Qi are all interconnected with our kidneys.

Note:
The information above serves as a general guide only. Please consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.