Asparagus Root

Asparagus cochinchinensis

Asparagus Root Shiny Asparagus Tian Men Dong Parts used Uses Habitat and cultivation Constituents How much to take

Asparagus - a low shrub with extensive fine cylindrical branches, reflected spines and numerous very fine midribs; polygamous solitary or paired white flowers occur in the axils of the leaf-like cladophylls; the dried roots occur as yellowish pieces 7-8 cm long with gelatinous consistency and appearance; its taste is sweetish, with bitter aftertaste.

PARTS USED

The roots.

USES

The traditional view of asparagus was as a moistening tonic remedy with particular reference to the respiratory system.
It was seen principally to moisten the Lungs, to counteract those conditions of 'heat' or deficient Lung yin manifested as dry cough, haemoptysis, fever, thirst and dry throat.
Supplementary applications were to constipation (again a moistening action), and other conditions where body fluids were unduly depleted, such as long-term night sweats and nocturnal emissions.
The whole plant has demonstrated experimental antitumour activity.
Other medical uses - Anemia, Gout.

HABITAT AND CULTIVATION

Asparagus is cultivated in southern China, Korea, Japan, Indochina.

CONSTITUENTS

Asparagus contains: asparagin; mucilage; alfa-sitosterol.

HOW MUCH TO TAKE

6-20 g daily.