Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Vignae Semen |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 赤小豆 · Chi Xiao Dou |
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| Medicinal Part | Fruits and seeds |
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| Efficacy Category | Dampness-draining |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried mature seed of Phaseolus calcaratus Roxb. (Fabaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sweet, Sour; Neutral |
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| Channels Entered | Heart, Small Intestine |
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What Is Chi Xiao Dou?
Chi Xiao Dou (Rice Bean) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Hunan, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Zhejiang.
Nature & Flavour: Sweet, Sour; Neutral
Channels Entered: Heart, Small Intestine
Chi Xiao Dou: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Vignae Semen
Botanical Origin
The dried mature seed of Phaseolus calcaratus Roxb. (Fabaceae).
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Hunan, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Zhejiang.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material has full pieces that have a dark purple-red color.
Macroscopic Features
Slightly cylindrical and flat. 5~7cm long, about 3mm diameter. Externally reddish-brown or purple-brown, smooth and lustrous; linear white hilum taken 2/3 of the whole, center indented to a longitudinal groove skewed to one end, back has one unobvious crest. Hard texture, difficult to break; peeled seed coat, two white cotyledons can be seen. faint odor; slightly bean-like flavor when chewed.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sweet, Sour; NeutralHeartSmall Intestine
Traditional Functions
Resolves toxin, promotes diuresis and reduces edema, and leaches dampness and resolves jaundice.
How Chi Xiao Dou Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Chi Xiao Dou is classified among the Dampness-draining herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
