Dou Kou Ren, also known as Amomi Fructus Rotundus or Round Cardamom Seed, is an aromatic, warm, and pungent herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to warm the middle burner, move Qi, and dry dampness. It is especially effective in treating cold-damp stagnation in the Spleen and Stomach, presenting as nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, and poor appetite. With its warming and fragrant nature, Dou Kou Ren is also used to regulate Qi in digestive disorders and support recovery from damp-related digestive conditions.
Functions & Benefits
Warms the Middle Jiao & Dispels Cold
Dou Kou Ren is commonly used to treat cold in the middle burner that leads to nausea, vomiting, and poor digestion. It warms the Spleen and Stomach, alleviating discomfort caused by cold-damp accumulation, especially in patients with weak digestive function.
Moves Qi & Relieves Nausea and Vomiting
Its aromatic, dispersing properties help regulate Qi, making it effective for treating nausea, belching, and vomiting caused by Qi stagnation or cold dampness affecting the middle jiao. It is commonly used after illness or in chronic digestive weakness.
Dries Dampness & Strengthens the Spleen
This herb is particularly helpful when dampness leads to a heavy sensation, loss of appetite, or diarrhea. It helps dry excessive internal dampness while supporting Spleen function.
Regulates Appetite & Alleviates Bloating
By harmonizing the digestive system, Dou Kou Ren helps improve appetite, reduce fullness, and resolve bloating caused by cold and damp stagnation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Indications
Nausea, vomiting, or belching due to cold-dampness in the Stomach.
Poor appetite, abdominal bloating, or epigastric fullness from Spleen Qi Deficiency.
Diarrhea or loose stools with a feeling of cold and heaviness.
Digestive sluggishness in the weak or elderly, particularly in damp or cold climates.
Support during recovery from gastrointestinal infections with lingering dampness.
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale with a white, greasy coating, indicating cold and damp in the middle burner.
Pulse: Soggy or moderate, possibly slippery or soft, showing dampness and Qi deficiency.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Dou Kou Ren
Dou Kou Ren is used to treat Cold-Damp Stagnation in the middle burner, Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency with dampness, and rebellious Qi in the Stomach. These patterns typically include nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, especially in cold and damp conditions.
Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for heat conditions or Yin Deficiency with dryness.
Avoid in patients with excess internal heat or constipation.
Use with caution in dry-type digestive complaints or during febrile illnesses.
Prolonged use without clear damp-cold signs may deplete fluids.
Conclusion
Dou Kou Ren is a warming and aromatic herb that excels at treating digestive issues caused by cold-damp stagnation. It warms the middle burner, regulates Qi, and dries dampness, making it particularly useful for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating. Its gentle yet effective nature makes it ideal for supporting digestion in weakened or recovering patients.
