Qian Nian Jian – Homalomena – Rhizoma Homalomenae

Qian Nian Jian

English Name: homalomena rhizome

Literal Translation: “thousand-year vitality”

Pharmaceutical Name: Rhizoma Homalomenae

Medica Category: Wind Damp Dispelling Herbs – Channel and Collateral Opening Herbs

Properties: Qian Nian Jian enters the Kidney and Liver channels; it is bitter and acrid in nature and warm in temperature.

What is Qian Nian Jian?:

The Chinese Herb Qian Nian Jian is the dried rhizomes of homalomena (Homalomena occulta), a creeping, tropical-forest plant with heart-shaped leaves that ranges from South-Central China down through the rest of Southeast Asia. The rhizomes of this plant are dug up in the spring or autumn, cleaned and sun-dried, then sliced for use as medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Therapeutic Actions of Qian Nian Jian:

Qian Nian Jian dispels wind and dampness and strengthens the tendons and bones to treat bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome) that manifests deep within the extremities (e.g. cold sensations and pain in the lower back). It is noted as being particularly well-suited for elderly persons with overall deficiency presentations.