Mu Bie Zi – Momordica Seed – Semen Momordicae

Mu Bie Zi

English Name: momordica seeds, cochinchina mormodica seed

Literal Translation: “wooden turtle seeds”

Pharmaceutical Name: Semen Momordicae Cochinensis

Medica Category: Substances for Topical Application

Properties: Mu Bie Zi enters the Large Intestine, Liver, and Stomach channels; it is bitter and slightly sweet in nature, warm in temperature, and considered toxic according to TCM theory.

What is Mu Bie Zi?:

The Chinese Herb Mu Bie Zi is the dried seeds from a type of melon (commonly known by its Vietnamese name gac) that grows across tropical areas of Southeast Asia and Australia (Momordica cochinensis (Lour.) Spreng.). The seeds are removed from the ripened fruit, dried, and left unprocessed or mixed with vinegar for use as a topical medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Therapeutic Actions of Mu Bie Zi:

Mu Bie Zi reduces swelling, disperses nodules, and eliminates toxins and is used topically to address abscesses (and other toxic swellings), scrofula, non-healing sores, and hemorrhoids. It is also combined with Shan Dou Gen (sophora root) and used as an insufflated powder to address sore throat with swelling and pain.

–safety/clinical notes:

Contraindicated during pregnancy.

Contraindicated for use with weak or debilitated persons.