Semen Biotae
Source
Seed (without spermoderm) of Biota onentalis (L) Endi. family Cupressaceae.
Characteristics
Seed long-ovate, or elliptical, 4-7 mm long, 1-3 mm broad. Surface yellow-white,
with membranous endotesta; tip acutate, base obtuse-rounded. Soft and
oleaginous. Sweet in taste, mild in nature, and attributive to heart,
kidney and large intestine channels.
Indication
1. Nourish the heart and tranquilize the mind: For insufficiency of heart-blood
manifested as frightening, severe palpitation, dreaminess, amnesia and
night sweating.
2. Moisturize the intestine and relax the bowels: For dryness of intestine
and constipation due to yin-deficiency and insufficiency of blood.
Pharmacological
Action
1. Tranquilizing.
2. Relaxing the bowel movement.
Administration
Decoction:
9-18g; (crushed or prepared as powder for constipation).