CHINESE HERB: FU PEN ZI

Chinese raspberry fruit

Name

Pinyin name: Fu Pen Zi

Latin name: Fructus Rubi

English name: Chinese Raspberry Fruit, Palm- leaf Raspberry Fruit, Rubus, Chinese Raspberry

Origin

The unripe fruit of Rubus Chingii Hu- a perennial woody plant in the Rosaceae family

Location and Harvest

It is mainly grown in Zhejiang, Fujian, Hubei and Guizhou provinces of China.

The green fruit is harvested in early summer.

Properties

Taste: Sweet and sour

Nature: Slightly warm

Entering Meridians: Liver and Kidney

Best qualities

Whole, full, green- yellow and sour

Processing

Slightly scald in hot water or slightly steam and then take out for drying

Major Chemical Constituents

Fupenzic acid, β- sitosterol, ellagic acid, saccharides, vitamin A

Actions

- Benefit the Liver and Kidneys

- Consolidate Essence (Jing) and reduce excessive urination

- Improve eyesight

Indications

- Frequent urination, enuresis, impotence, premature ejaculation due to Kidney Yang Deficiency

- Blurred vision due to Liver and Kidney Deficiency

Dosage

Recommended dosage is from 3- 10grams in decoction, pills or powder.

Contraindications and Cautions

- Use with care in cases of kidney deficiency induced fire, scanty urine and difficult urination

- Contraindicated in individuals with burning urination due to Damp- Heat in the Lower Jiao