Does Ophiopogon clear stomach fire?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Ophiopogon (Ophiopogon japonicus) can clear stomach fire, especially for excessive internal heat caused by stomach yin deficiency, but should be used according to individual constitution and symptoms with syndrome differentiation. Ophiopogon is slightly cold in nature, sweet in taste, and enters the heart, lung, and stomach meridians. It has functions of nourishing yin, moistening dryness, clearing heat, and promoting body fluid production. For deficiency fire due to stomach yin deficiency manifested as dry mouth and throat, desire for food without appetite, red tongue with little coating, Ophiopogon alleviates the ascending fire by nourishing the stomach yin.
Generally speaking, Ophiopogon (McDoor) can clear stomach fire, especially for cases of deficient fire caused by stomach yin deficiency. However, its use should be based on individual constitution and symptoms through pattern identification. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Ophiopogon is slightly cold in nature, sweet in taste, and enters the heart, lung, and stomach meridians. It has functions of nourishing yin and moistening dryness, clearing heat, and promoting body fluid production. For deficient fire caused by stomach yin deficiency, which manifests as dry mouth and throat, dry tongue, feeling hungry but having no appetite, red tongue with little coating, Ophiopogon alleviates the upward flare of deficient fire by nourishing stomach yin, rather than simply clearing heat and fire. Ophiopogon contains mucilage, which can promote gastric secretion, improve fluid deficiency caused by stomach yin deficiency, and relieve constipation caused by body fluid damage due to stomach fire.
However, it should be noted that although Ophiopogon can clear stomach fire, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with phlegm-dampness in the stomach, those suffering from colds due to wind-cold, and people with spleen and stomach deficiency cold diarrhea should not take Ophiopogon, as its cold nature may worsen their condition and affect health. Long-term use of Ophiopogon may also cause some side effects, such as spleen and stomach deficiency cold and damage to body fluids.
Therefore, when using Ophiopogon to clear stomach fire, one should follow the principle of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment based on individual constitution and specific symptoms, and use it appropriately under the guidance of a qualified physician. At the same time, maintaining good lifestyle habits, such as regular diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep, can help prevent and regulate stomach fire.
