Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Kochiae Fructus |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 地膚子 · Di Fu Zi |
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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 fruit of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad.(Chenopodiaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Acrid, Bitter; Cold |
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| Channels Entered | Kidney, Bladder |
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What Is Di Fu Zi?
Di Fu Zi (Belvedere Fruit) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Jiangsu, Henan, Hebei, Shandong.
Nature & Flavour: Acrid, Bitter; Cold
Channels Entered: Kidney, Bladder
Di Fu Zi: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Kochiae Fructus
Botanical Origin
The dried mature fruit of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad.(Chenopodiaceae).
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Jiangsu, Henan, Hebei, Shandong.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material is grayish-green and full
Macroscopic Features
Flat spherical five-pointed star, 1~3mm diameter. Externally covered in remnants of perianth, grayish-green or pale brown; edges are membranous with 5 small wings; the center of the back side has tiny raised spotted stem scars and about 10 radial veins; after peeling off the perianth, a membranous pericarp can be seen, translucent. Seed is flat oval, about 1mm long, black. faint odor, slightly bitter taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Acrid, Bitter; ColdKidneyBladder
Traditional Functions
Clears heat and drains dampness, dispels wind and stops itching.
How Di Fu Zi Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Di Fu Zi 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.
