What are the functions and effects of Bamboo Rat Tooth?
Mar 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Bamboo rat teeth, also known as bamboo mole rat teeth, are the teeth of the bamboo rat, an animal of the Rhizomyidae family, which can be used medicinally. They have certain efficacy and functions in clearing heat and resolving phlegm, stopping vomiting and stabilizing pregnancy, promoting diuresis and reducing edema, lowering blood pressure, detoxifying, and reducing inflammation. However, their use should follow the principles of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment; self-administration without guidance is not advisable. Additionally, pregnant women and individuals with a cold-deficient body constitution should use them cautiously to avoid adverse reactions.
Rhizomys sinensis teeth, also known as bamboo rat teeth, are the teeth of the bamboo rat (Rhizomys sinensis) from the family Spalacidae, and they can be used medicinally. They have certain therapeutic effects and functions in clearing heat and resolving phlegm, stopping vomiting and stabilizing pregnancy, promoting diuresis and reducing edema, lowering blood pressure, and detoxifying and reducing inflammation. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Clearing Heat and Resolving Phlegm: Bamboo rat teeth have a good effect in clearing heat and resolving phlegm. They are suitable for treating symptoms such as cough caused by heat-phlegm and yellow, thick sputum. They help clear heat toxins from the lungs, promote expectoration, and relieve discomfort of the respiratory system.
2. Stopping Vomiting and Stabilizing Pregnancy: Bamboo rat teeth are commonly used to treat vomiting during pregnancy and restlessness of the fetus. They can regulate stomach qi, reduce nausea and vomiting, and help stabilize the fetus, alleviate discomfort in pregnant women, and protect the health of both mother and child.
3. Promoting Diuresis and Reducing Edema: Bamboo rat teeth have a diuretic effect, helping to remove excess fluid from the body and alleviate edema. They can serve as an adjunct in treating edema caused by conditions such as nephritis and cirrhosis.
4. Lowering Blood Pressure: Certain components in bamboo rat teeth have a vasodilatory effect, which helps reduce blood pressure. Appropriate use of bamboo rat teeth can provide some auxiliary hypotensive effect for patients with hypertension.
5. Detoxifying and Reducing Inflammation: Bamboo rat teeth have detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be used to treat inflammatory conditions caused by heat toxins, such as sore throat and oral ulcers, effectively clearing heat toxins and reducing inflammatory responses.
However, their use should follow the principle of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment. They should not be used blindly on one's own. In addition, pregnant women and individuals with a cold-deficient constitution should use them cautiously to avoid adverse reactions.
