Lotus Seed … Classic Formulas

Lian Zi · Semen Nelumbinis

Primary Actions

  • Tonifies the Spleen and binds the intestines; treats chronic diarrhea and poor appetite from Spleen deficiency
  • Tonifies the Kidney and secures Essence; stabilizes leukorrhea, spermatorrhea, and premature ejaculation from Kidney instability
  • Nourishes the Heart and calms the Spirit; treats irritability, palpitations, and insomnia from Heart-Kidney disharmony

Classic Formulas

  • Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction)
  • Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin (Clear the Heart Lotus Seed Drink)

Classical Text References

  • Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (Divine Farmer's Materia Medica, c. 200 CE) lists lotus seed among the upper-class tonics
  • Ben Cao Gang Mu (Li Shizhen, 1578) describes its role in tonifying the Spleen, securing Essence, and nourishing the Heart