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    Yemama Apothecary

    Bencao Gangmu Reference Library

    Food-Stagnation Transforming, Fluid-Engendering & Mild Laxative (消食化积 / 生津止渴清热解暑润肠通便药)

    酸豆 / 罗望子 / 酸角 / 印度枣 — Tamarindus indica L.

    Pinyin: Suāndòu / Luówàngzǐ · Malay: Asam Jawa / Asam Kuning · Family: Fabaceae (豆科)

    Botanical Illustration

    Energetics

    Cool (微凉 / 凉)

    Flavor

    Sour, sweet (酸、甘)

    Meridians

    Stomach (胃), Spleen (脾), Liver (肝)

    Traditional Edict

    Clears summer-heat, engenders fluids to quench thirst, transforms food stagnation, awakens Spleen, and lubricates intestines. Universal Nanyang dietary acidifier (Asam Jawa).

    Cautions & Contraindications

    • High natural titratable acidity; rinse mouth after drinking to protect enamel. Take after meals in active peptic ulceration or severe GERD.

    Clinical Applications

    • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), postprandial glucose surges, chronic atonic constipation, pregnancy nausea, and calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis.

    Quality Markers

    (+)-Tartaric Acid (酒石酸) >= 10.00% & Potassium Bitartrate (HPLC MHM standard)

    Mechanism & Phytochemistry

    1. Unfermented (+)-tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate draw water into colonic lumen, stimulating smooth non-cramping osmotic peristalsis. 2. Polyphenols inhibit a-amylase and a-glucosidase, blunting glucose surges. 3. Downregulates HMG-CoA reductase.

    Preparation & Dosage

    Seeded/seedless pulp steeped in warm water (Air Asam Jawa): 15-30 g daily. Simmered with ginger for pregnancy morning sickness. Standardized extract: 500-1000 mg.

    Appended Prescriptions

    • 1. Nanyang Summer-Heat Quenching Tisane (Air Asam Kunyit) with Curcuma longa and Honey. 2. Gentle Osmotic Bowel-Moistening Drink with Cassia fistula pulp and Chia Seeds.

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    Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only