Pharmaceutical Name

Semen Vaccariae

Botanical Name

Vaccaria segetalis (Neck.) Garcke

Common Name

Vacarria seed, Cow soapwort seed

Source of Earliest Record

Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations

The whole plant is harvested in June or July. After it has been dried in the sun, the seeds are removed from their shells. They are then dried again.

Properties & Taste

Bitter and neutral

Meridians

Liver and stomach

Functions

1. To invigorate blood and promote menstruation; 2. To promote lactation

Indications & Combinations

1. Dysmenorrhea by retardation of blood circulation or amenorrhea caused by blood stagnation. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Chinese angelica root (Danggui), Chuanxiong rhizome (Chuanxiong), Safflower (Honghua) and Motherwort (Yimucao). 2. Postpartum insufficient lactation. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Pangolin scales (Chuanshanjia) and Rice paper pith (Tongcao). If there is deficiency of qi and blood, Astragalus root (Huangqi) and Chinese angelica root (Danggui) are added. 3. Mastitis with pain and swollen breasts. Vaccaria seed (Wangbuliuxing) is used with Dandelion herb (Pugongying), Honeysuckle flower (Jinyinhua) and Trichosanthes fruit (Gualou).

Dosage

6-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications

This herb should be used with caution during pregnancy.