Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Portulacae Herba |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 馬齒莧 · Ma Chi Xian |
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| Medicinal Part | Whole herbs |
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| Efficacy Category | Heat-clearing |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried aerial part of Portulaca oleracea L. (Portulacaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sour; Cold |
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| Channels Entered | Liver, Large Intestine |
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What Is Ma Chi Xian?
Ma Chi Xian (Purslane Herb) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Produced nationwide.
Nature & Flavour: Sour; Cold
Channels Entered: Liver, Large Intestine
Ma Chi Xian: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Portulacae Herba
Botanical Origin
The dried aerial part of Portulaca oleracea L. (Portulacaceae).
Production Regions
Produced nationwide.
Quality Requirements
Superior material is green, leafy, tender and free of sand.
Macroscopic Features
Stem twisted, often branched; externally brownish; leaves alternate, thick, obovate, 1~2 cm long, green, obtuse at apex; flowers small, yellow; fruits cap-shaped, many small black seeds; texture brittle; faint odor; slightly sour taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sour; ColdLiverLarge Intestine
Traditional Functions
Clears heat and resolves toxin, cools blood and stops bleeding.
How Ma Chi Xian Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Ma Chi Xian is classified among the Heat-clearing 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.
