Can Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) be steeped in water for long-term consumption?
Apr 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) should not be consumed long-term by steeping in water. Mai Dong is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb with slightly cold nature, sweet and slightly bitter taste, and is associated with the stomach, lung, and heart meridians. It functions to nourish yin and moisten the lungs, benefit the stomach and promote body fluid production, and clear the heart to relieve irritability. It is suitable for symptoms such as dry cough with little phlegm due to lung dryness caused by yin deficiency, insufficient stomach yin, thirst due to fluid deficiency, and irritability with insomnia. However, due to its slightly cold nature, long-term consumption by steeping in water may have adverse effects on health.
Generally speaking, Ophiopogon japonicus (MJ) should not be consumed by steeping in water for a prolonged period. The detailed explanation is as follows:
MJ is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb. It is slightly cold in nature, with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, and it acts on the stomach, lung, and heart meridians. MJ has effects of nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, benefiting the stomach and promoting body fluid production, clearing the heart and relieving irritability. It is suitable for symptoms such as dry cough with little phlegm due to lung dryness caused by yin deficiency, insufficient stomach yin, dry mouth and thirst due to body fluid deficiency, and irritability with insomnia. However, due to its slightly cold nature, long-term consumption by steeping in water may have certain adverse effects on health.
The cold nature of MJ may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, particularly in individuals with cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach. While MJ has nourishing and yin-enhancing properties, long-term excessive consumption may disrupt the body's fluid balance, leading to excessive dampness or other discomfort. A small number of people may be allergic to MJ, experiencing symptoms such as skin itching, swelling, and rashes.
Although MJ has certain medicinal values, it is not recommended for long-term self-preparation by steeping in water. If necessary, it should be appropriately used under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist, based on individual constitution and medical condition. Additionally, the duration and dosage of consumption should be adjusted according to specific circumstances to avoid long-term and uncontrolled usage.
