Can Rehmannia glutinosa and Ophiopogon japonicus reduce fire (heat) in the body?

Jun 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Sheng Di refers to Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang). Generally, Rehmannia root and Ophiopogon root (McDoor) can reduce internal heat. Rehmannia root has the function of clearing heat and cooling the blood, and is suitable for symptoms such as excessive internal heat (fire) and sore throat. Ophiopogon root is slightly cold in nature and therefore also helps clear heat and reduce fire. It can alleviate various discomforts caused by Yin deficiency with Fire hyperactivity. However, it should be used correctly under the guidance of a licensed TCM physician.

Raw rehmannia refers to the raw form of rehmannia root. Generally speaking, raw rehmannia and dwarf lilyturf root can help reduce internal heat, but they should be properly used under the guidance of a qualified TCM physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Raw rehmannia has the effect of clearing heat and cooling the blood, and can help alleviate symptoms such as yin deficiency caused by heat illness, red tongue with yellow coating, irritability, and insomnia. Raw rehmannia can reduce internal heat and is suitable for symptoms such as excessive internal heat (sore throat) and therefore has a significant heat-reducing effect. Dwarf lilyturf root nourishes yin and promotes the production of body fluids, helping to alleviate symptoms such as dry cough caused by lung dryness, thirst due to fluid deficiency, and constipation caused by intestinal dryness. It has a slightly cold nature and also possesses the function of clearing heat and reducing fire, thus helping to relieve various discomforts caused by yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity.

However, raw rehmannia and dwarf lilyturf root are not suitable for everyone. If the excessive internal heat is not caused by yin deficiency—for example, if it is caused by external wind-heat or internal accumulation of damp-heat—using raw rehmannia and dwarf lilyturf root alone may not be effective and could even hinder spleen and stomach function due to their rich and greasy nature, thereby worsening symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a professional TCM physician for proper diagnosis and treatment, to avoid improper self-medication that may lead to adverse effects.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising moderately, and ensuring adequate sleep, which can help reduce the chances of excessive internal heat.

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