Solomon's Seal Rhizome (Yu Zhu)
玉竹 · Yùzhú
Polygonatum odoratum
Family: Asparagaceae · Part used: Rhizome · Origin: Shaodong, Hunan, China
Nature
Cool
Flavor
Sweet
Meridian
Lung, Stomach
Yu Zhu — 'jade bamboo' — is the gentle yin-moistening rhizome of the autumn-dryness tradition. Sweet and cool, it generates fluids without cloying, making it the herb of choice for dry throats, dry coughs, and the parched aftermath of fevers. A staple in Cantonese slow-cooked soups for its mild sweetness.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Nourishes yin and moistens dryness
- •Generates fluids and quenches thirst
- •Gently tonifies without cloying
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Dry cough and dry throat
- •Thirst after febrile illness
- •Dry mouth in diabetes (traditional)
- •Dry eyes and skin
- •Late-stage febrile disease with lingering fluids
📖 Usage & Dosage
9–15 g in decoction or 15–20 g slow-simmered in soups; pairs beautifully with lily bulb and snow fungus.
🍵 Classic Recipes
Yu Zhu & Lily Soup
Yu zhu 15 g + lily bulb 15 g + lean pork, slow-simmered 90 minutes for autumn dryness.
Sha Shen Yu Zhu Decoction
Yu zhu + glehnia root + ophiopogon — Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang's yin-moistening core.
🔬 Modern Research
Polygonatum polysaccharides and steroidal saponins are studied for glycemic regulation, immune support, and skin hydration.
⚠️ Contraindications
Avoid with phlegm-damp conditions and spleen deficiency with loose stools.
