Bencao Gangmu Reference Library
辣木 / 鼓槌树 / 印度辣木 — Moringa oleifera Lam.
Pinyin: Làmù / Gǔchuíshù · Malay: Kelor / Daun Kelor / Moringa · Family: Moringaceae (辣木科)
Energetics
Neutral to slightly Warm (平 / 微温)
Flavor
Pungent, slightly sweet, bitter (辛、微甘、苦)
Meridians
Liver (肝), Spleen (脾), Kidney (肾), Lung (肺)
Traditional Edict
Tonifies deficiency and augments Qi, activates blood to dispel wind, clears toxic heat, relieves swelling, and lowers blood sugar and pressure. Revered as the "Miracle Tree of Life."
Cautions & Contraindications
- Root bark contains toxic spirochin; ONLY leaves, seed oil, and tender pods are used. Root/bark is STRICTLY CONTRAINDICATED in pregnancy (abortifacient risk).
Clinical Applications
- Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (insulin resistance), hyperlipidemia, chronic arthralgia, lactation enhancement in nursing mothers, and micronutrient malnutrition.
Quality Markers
Mechanism & Phytochemistry
1. Moringine (water-stable isothiocyanate) blocks IkBa phosphorylation and NF-kB, activating Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway. 2. Quercetin and chlorogenic acid inhibit a-glucosidase and stimulate pancreatic b-cell insulin secretion. 3. Rich in bioavailable iron and calcium, stimulating prolactin expression for lactation.
Preparation & Dosage
Low-temperature shade-dried leaf powder: 3-6 g daily. Dried leaf infusion: 5-10 g daily. Standardized Moringine extract: 250-500 mg daily.
Appended Prescriptions
- 1. Nanyang Vitality Glycemic Harmony Tea with Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing) and Gynura procumbens. 2. Postpartum Galactagogue & Recovery Broth with Green Papaya and Ginger.
Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only