Che Qian Zi-Asian Plantain Seed-Semen Plantaginis

Che Qian Zi, known as Plantago seed, is a widely used dampness-draining and heat-clearing herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is valued for its ability to promote urination, clear damp-heat, improve vision, and resolve phlegm accumulation. Che Qian Zi is commonly prescribed for conditions such as urinary difficulty, edema, diarrhea, lung phlegm, and eye disorders caused by Liver Heat.

Functions & Benefits

Promotes Urination and Clears Damp-Heat
Used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), difficult urination, edema, and damp-heat diarrhea.

Clears Liver Heat and Improves Vision
Helps with red, swollen, painful eyes and blurred vision caused by excessive Liver Heat or Wind-Heat.

Transforms Phlegm and Clears Lung Heat
Used for cough with thick yellow phlegm and respiratory congestion.

Reduces Diarrhea and Supports Digestive Health
Helps regulate loose stools and damp-related digestive issues.

Indications
Individuals experiencing UTIs, edema, or difficulty urinating due to damp-heat
People suffering from red, irritated eyes or blurred vision caused by Liver Heat
Patients with cough, phlegm accumulation, or lung congestion
Those with damp-related diarrhea and poor digestive function

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Greasy yellow or white coating (indicating damp-heat accumulation)
Pulse: Slippery and rapid (suggesting damp-heat in the body)

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Che Qian Zi
Damp-Heat in the Urinary Bladder – Urinary difficulty, burning sensation, UTI symptoms
Liver Heat Affecting the Eyes – Red, painful, dry, or blurry vision
Lung Heat with Phlegm Accumulation – Cough with yellow mucus, difficulty breathing
Damp-Heat Diarrhea – Loose stools, bloating, abdominal discomfort

Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for individuals with Kidney Qi deficiency leading to excessive urination.
Avoid use in cases of Spleen deficiency with diarrhea or weak digestion.
Use with caution during pregnancy, as it strongly promotes urination.

Conclusion
Che Qian Zi is a potent dampness-draining and heat-clearing herb in TCM, valued for its ability to promote urination, support vision, resolve phlegm, and aid digestion. Its versatility in treating urinary issues, eye conditions, respiratory congestion, and digestive imbalances makes it an essential remedy for clearing damp-heat and improving overall fluid metabolism.