Can Ophiopogon japonicus be steeped in alcohol?

Sep 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) can be steeped in alcohol and is a common combination in the preparation of traditional Chinese herbal wines. However, attention should be paid to the selection of ingredients, dosage, and suitable populations; it should not be prepared or consumed excessively without guidance. In daily life, if preparing Ophiopogon wine, it is recommended to understand your own body constitution, control the amount consumed, drink in small quantities each time, and avoid continuous long-term consumption. When necessary, consult a professional to determine the appropriate preparation ratio, ensuring safety and rational usage.

Generally speaking, Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) can be steeped in alcohol and is a common combination in traditional Chinese medicine for making medicinal liquor. However, attention should be paid to the selection of ingredients, dosage, and suitable individuals. Blind preparation or excessive consumption should be avoided. Detailed explanation is as follows:

Ophiopogon japonicus has a slightly cold nature and possesses functions of nourishing yin, promoting body fluid production, moistening the lungs, and clearing the heart. When combined with alcohol, the liquor can help extract effective components from Ophiopogon japonicus and assist in the circulation of qi. It is suitable for individuals with yin deficiency and body fluid insufficiency to consume in moderation. For example, those who often experience dry mouth and throat, dry cough with little phlegm, irritability, and insomnia may benefit from moderate consumption of Ophiopogon japonicus liquor to help alleviate these discomforts. However, the dosage must be controlled. Excessive use of Ophiopogon japonicus or excessive alcohol consumption may result in the叠加 (superimposition) of its cold nature and the stimulating properties of alcohol, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, acid reflux, and may even increase internal dampness.

In daily life, if you intend to prepare Ophiopogon japonicus liquor, it is recommended to understand your body constitution, control the amount consumed, drink in small quantities each time, and avoid long-term continuous consumption. When necessary, consult a professional to determine the appropriate preparation ratio to ensure safety and appropriateness.

View All

What intravenous fluid is best for deficiency of qi and blood?

When intravenous infusion is needed to regulate deficiency of qi and blood, Shengmai Injection, Huangqi Injection, Danggui Injection, Compound Ejiao Syrup Injection, or Bazhen Injection may generally be selected. The main components of Shengmai Injection are red ginseng and Ophiopogon japonicus (Maidong), which can tonify qi and nourish yin, as well as promote body fluid production and nourish blood. It is suitable for individuals with deficiency of both qi and yin. This injection can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and dry mouth by replenishing vital energy and nourishing yin fluids.

View Full Answer

Which traditional Chinese herbs lower blood sugar?

Some traditional Chinese herbs have an auxiliary effect in lowering blood glucose. Commonly used ones include Astragalus (Huangqi), Kudzu root (Gegen), dried bitter melon, Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), and Ophiopogon (Maidong). These herbs mainly work by regulating metabolism and improving pancreatic islet function. When using these herbal medicines, it is important to be aware of their contraindications and precautions. They should be selected according to individual body constitution and specific conditions, used strictly under medical guidance, and must not replace conventional Western antidiabetic medications.

View Full Answer

How effective is traditional Chinese medicine in treating dry eye syndrome?

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has proven efficacy in treating dry eye syndrome, effectively alleviating symptoms such as dryness, grittiness, and foreign body sensation. It emphasizes overall body regulation and generally has fewer side effects. If symptoms persist for more than one month or worsen, it is recommended to seek timely evaluation and treatment at the ophthalmology department of a正规 hospital. TCM treatment for dry eye syndrome primarily follows the principles of nourishing yin, moistening dryness, nourishing the liver, and improving vision, with commonly used herbs including Lycium barbarum (Gou Qi Zi) and Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong).

View Full Answer

How to manage yin deficiency with hyperactivity of fire

In general, the regulation of yin deficiency with hyperactive fire focuses on nourishing yin and reducing fire. This can be achieved through dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, emotional management, acupoint massage, and herbal remedies. Additionally, individuals with yin deficiency and hyperactive fire should reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption, and avoid stimulants such as coffee and strong tea. In daily life, drinking Ophiopogon tea or Solomonseal tea in moderation may help continuously nourish yin.