Cassia seeds (Jue Ming Zi)

Indication of cassia seeds in Chinese medicine

1) They are particularly suitable for many eye disorders:

• Red, swollen and painful eyes
• Blurred vision
• Photosensitivity (sensitivity to light)
• Hemeralopia, which is excessive difficulty in seeing when the light decreases (e.g. at dusk)
• Loss of vision without visible changes to the eyes
• Tearing
• Conjunctivitis
• Cataracts

2) For certain liver disorders causing :

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• High blood pressure

3) They moisten and unblock the intestines, which is useful for :

• Dry stools
• Infrequent bowel movements
• Chronic constipation

4) They are also useful against atherosclerosis, lowering both blood pressure and cholesterol.

Properties according to Chinese medicine

• Clarifies the liver and clears the eyes*
• Lowers Yang and calms the liver
• Drains fire
• Clarifies heat
• Expels wind-heat
• Moistens and unblocks intestines

*In Chinese medicine, the eyes are associated with the liver, and when the liver is well-balanced, the eyes are properly nourished. As a result, plants used to combat eye problems have a rebalancing effect on the liver.

Instructions for use and dosage

Place 10g cassia seeds in a large mug and fill to 90% with simmering spring water (approx. 250ml). Cover the mug and leave to infuse for 15 minutes.

Combinations:

– To improve digestion, lower cholesterol and combat hypertension, see Anti-cholesterol/hypertension herbal tea.
– With white chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua) to fight hypertension more actively.

Contraindication

Do not consume if you have :

• Frequent diarrhoea
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Colds
• Flu
• Do not drink if you are allergic to flowers in general
• Do not drink if you are pregnant or breast-feeding