Can Ophiopogon Root and Kudzu Root be taken together?

Jun 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Ophiopogon Root (McDoor) and Kudzu Root can be taken together. Ophiopogon Root is sweet and cold in nature, and has functions of nourishing yin, promoting body fluid production, moistening the lungs, and clearing the heart. Kudzu Root is sweet and acrid, and cool in nature; its main functions are relieving muscle tension and reducing fever, uplifting yang energy, and stopping diarrhea. There are no obvious contraindications between the two herbs. When used together in a prescription under medical guidance, they can enhance each other's effects in nourishing yin, clearing heat, promoting body fluid production, and relieving thirst. However, appropriate usage should be directed by a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.

Generally speaking, Ophiopogon Root (Mai Dong) and Kudzu Root (Ge Gen) can be consumed together, but they should be used appropriately under the guidance of a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. The specific explanation is as follows:

Ophiopogon Root has a sweet and cold nature and functions to nourish yin, clear heat, calm the mind, and support heart health. Kudzu Root has a sweet and acrid, cool nature and mainly functions to relieve muscle tension, reduce fever, promote yang energy, and stop diarrhea. There are no obvious contraindications between these two herbs. When used together in a formula under medical supervision, they can enhance the effects of nourishing yin, clearing heat, promoting body fluid production, and relieving thirst, thus alleviating symptoms such as excessive hunger, thirst, and cough caused by yin deficiency of the lung and stomach.

However, improper or excessive consumption may cause adverse effects. The cold nature of Ophiopogon Root may exacerbate internal cold-dampness, while the dispersing property of Kudzu Root may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea or abdominal pain. These effects are particularly notable for individuals with cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach or those with a cold body constitution, as their symptoms may worsen. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a physician to determine whether it is appropriate to use Ophiopogon Root and Kudzu Root together, to avoid potential adverse reactions.

In daily diet, it is recommended to properly combine foods, control portion sizes, and avoid excessive consumption of any single food item, which helps maintain overall health.

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What are the benefits of drinking water infused with Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) and licorice?

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