Wu Mei (Mume Fruit) is a warm, sour herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) valued for generating fluids, calming roundworm activity, stopping cough, and binding the intestines. It is made from the smoked, unripe fruit of Prunus mumeand is known for its dual ability to astringe and nourish. Wu Mei is used to treat chronic cough, thirst from Yin deficiency, diarrhea, intestinal parasites, and conditions of excessive fluid loss. Its sour and astringent nature makes it particularly effective in preventing leakage of Lung Qi and stabilizing the intestines, while its mild warmth supports the Spleen and Stomach in chronic weakness.
Functions & Benefits
Generates Fluids and Relieves Thirst
Nourishes Yin and stimulates fluid production in cases of chronic dryness and thirst.
Stops Cough and Calms Wheezing
Astringes the Lung Qi to control persistent cough and breathlessness, especially in chronic or deficiency conditions.
Binds the Intestines and Stops Diarrhea
Used for chronic diarrhea and dysentery, especially when caused by Spleen deficiency.
Expels Roundworms and Alleviates Abdominal Pain
Paralyzes and expels intestinal parasites while easing related abdominal discomfort.
Astringes Leakage and Prevents Fluid Loss
Helps control excessive sweating and fluid depletion in chronic illness.
Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)
✔ Individuals with chronic cough or wheezing from Lung Qi deficiency.
✔ People with long-term diarrhea or dysentery.
✔ Those with thirst from Yin deficiency or heat-related fluid loss.
✔ Patients with intestinal roundworms and related abdominal pain.
✔ Individuals experiencing excessive sweating or leakage from chronic weakness.
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale or red with scanty coating, depending on underlying condition.
Pulse: Thin or weak in deficiency cases; wiry in parasite-related discomfort.
Related TCM Patterns
Lung Qi Deficiency – Causes chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Spleen Qi Deficiency – Leads to chronic diarrhea or dysentery.
Yin Deficiency with Heat – Results in thirst, dryness, and fluid depletion.
Intestinal Parasites – Cause abdominal pain, irritability, and cravings.
Clinical Applications (For Reference Only)
Chronic Cough – Astringes Lung Qi to reduce coughing fits.
Persistent Diarrhea – Strengthens the intestines and reduces fluid loss.
Parasitic Infections – Expels roundworms and eases pain.
Thirst and Dryness – Generates fluids in Yin deficiency.
Common Herbal Formulas with Wu Mei
Often combined with Xi Yang Shen for Yin deficiency thirst, or with He Zi and Rou Dou Kou for chronic diarrhea. A key ingredient in Wu Mei Wan for roundworms and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Precautions & Contraindications
Avoid in cases of excess or stagnation without deficiency.
Not suitable for acute diarrhea caused by damp-heat.
Use with caution in patients with severe heat signs without underlying Yin deficiency.
Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations
✔ Eat moistening foods such as pears, honey, and cooked root vegetables to support fluid generation.
✔ Avoid greasy, fried, and overly spicy foods that irritate the digestive system.
✔ Maintain adequate hydration to support recovery from chronic fluid loss.
✔ Use balanced meals to nourish Spleen and Stomach Qi in chronic weakness.
Conclusion
Wu Mei (Mume Fruit) is a warm, astringent herb in TCM that nourishes Yin, generates fluids, stops cough, binds the intestines, and expels roundworms. It is a versatile remedy for chronic cough, persistent diarrhea, fluid depletion, and parasite-related abdominal pain.
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