Alisma (Water plantain) ~ Alisma plantago-aquatica

Alisma (Water plantain)

Latin name: Alisma plantago-aquatica

Family:

Part used:   rhizome

Habitat:  China

Main constituents: alisol A & B, epialisol, asparagine

Energetics: sweet, bland, cold

Main herbal actions:  diuretic

Minor herbal actions:  hypotensive through diuresis

Main medicinal uses: edema

Minor medicinal uses: urinary stasis

Preparations: powder or decoction: 6-15 grams

Contraindications: Spermatorrhea, leucorrhea, deficient kidney yang, damp cold

Toxicity: gastroenteritis with very high, prolonged doses, very safe

Sources: Bensky and Gamble Materia Medica