Xian Mao, 仙茅, Curculiginis Rhizoma
① Temperature, Taste and Channel
Curculigo rhizome/ hot, acrid/ Kidney/ 3~9g
② Actions
Tonifies the Kidneys and assists yang
Dispels cold-dampness
③ Cautions and Contraindications
Contraindications: heat from yin deficiency
Xian Mao (仙茅), a renowned herb in ancient Chinese history, has garnered the attention of emperors, scholars, and herbalists alike. Named after the character Xian (仙), meaning "celestial being, immortal, god, divinity", so, Xiao Mao can be translated into 'immortal's plant'. This plant was believed to bestow its users with lighter and more youthful bodies, akin to the bodies of immortals. Xian Mao was used as medicine and was known for its spicy and hot taste. It was believed to benefit the kidney meridian, treating kidney yang deficiency, impotence, and premature ejaculation, as well as high blood pressure in postmenopausal women.
The legend of Xian Mao can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty when an Indian monks(Paramon; 婆羅門 ) introduced it to Emperor Xuanzong of Tang (玄宗). Because its effects on tonifying the kidney and strengthening the body were similar to ginseng, it was also referred to as Paramonsam (Paramon’s Ginseng). The Haeyakboncho (海藥本草), a famous classical text, contains descriptions of Xian Mao, stating that its leaves resemble Mao grass and that long-term consumption makes the body lighter. A later work, Xu Chuan Xin Fang (續傳信方), written by Wang Yan (王顔) of the Later Tang dynasty, further attests to the popularity of Xian Mao, claiming that the Xian Mao formula was so effective that it could not be matched by ten catties of stalactite.
"Qiye simao (其葉似茅), Jiufu qingshen (久服輕身)".
"The leaves of Xian Mao are similar to Mao grass (띠뿌리, 茅草), and long-term consumption makes the body lighter".
- In the Haiyao Bencao (海藥本草, 公元907-960年)
"The 'Haiyao Bencao' (海藥本草, Hǎiyào Běncǎo) was handed down until the end of the Southern Song Dynasty (南宋, Nán Sòng) and then was lost. Only some parts of it are recorded in the 'Zhènglèi Běncǎo' (證類本草) and 'Bencao Gangmu' (本草綱目). The term 'Haiyao' (海藥) literally means 'medicines imported across the sea'. Therefore, the drugs recorded in this book are mostly imported from overseas or transplanted and cultivated from abroad."
Dispelling Wind and Dampness
Xian Mao's primary function is to disperse wind and dampness from the body. These terms, commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, refer to pathogenic influences that can cause a variety of health problems. "Wind" is associated with symptoms like chills, fever, and headaches, while "dampness" is linked to symptoms like a feeling of heaviness, bloating, and fatigue. By combating these influences, Xian Mao helps to restore balance and health to the body.
Tonifying Effect
Besides its ability to dispel wind and dampness, Xian Mao also has a tonifying effect. In traditional Chinese medicine, tonifying herbs are used to strengthen and nourish the body's vital energy, or Qi. This function makes Xian Mao an essential herb for those suffering from a weakened constitution or energy depletion.
Toxicity and Proper Usage
However, Xian Mao's widespread popularity and association with immortality led to misuse. People often consumed excessive amounts of the herb, mistakenly believing it to be a panacea. In the Tang Dynasty, individuals also consumed gold, silver, mercury, and lead, including Emperor Xuanzong, who lost his life due to the misuse of these substances.
During the Ming Dynasty, Yi Shijin wrote in his book "Bencao Gangmu" (Compendium of Materia Medica) that "The nature of Xian Mao is hot and it is a beneficial medicine for the triple burners and the gate of vitality. It is good for those with deficient yang energy and weak constitution, but if someone with a strong body and full yang energy takes Xian Mao, it will cause fire to move in the body."
Legend has it that Pengzu (彭祖), who lived to be 800 years old, did so by consuming Xian Mao regularly. The method of consumption was recorded as: "Yizhudao geqie (以竹刀割切), nami gan jin wuri (糥 米泔浸五日), qiechishui (去赤水), chuduhouwufangs (出毒後無妨損)", translating to "Cut Xian Mao with a bamboo knife, soak in rice water for five days, remove the red water, and after removing the poison, it does not harm the body." But, this method is not used in mordern days.
If one experiences tongue swelling (설종창, 舌腫脹), a symptom of poisoning from Xianmo, they can be detoxified with rhubarb (대황, 大黃) and yuanming powder (원명분, 元明粉), or Sanhuang Tang (삼황탕, 三黃湯)
Overuse of Xian Mao may disrupt heart rate, and in severe cases, may suppress and paralyze the cardiovascular system, leading to adverse effects on the heart and blood systems. However, as long as the dosage is kept below 10g when decocting, there should be no significant issues. The primary toxic component of Xian Mao is believed to be lycorine.
Animal studies have revealed that Xian Mao's toxicity is relatively low. However, research titled "仙茅醇提取物大鼠长期毒性试验研究" (Long-term Toxicity Study of Xian Mao Alcohol Extract in Rats) has shown that, at a high dosage of 120g/kg for an extended period, increases in BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen), CREA (Creatinine), and ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) levels were observed, suggesting potential toxicity to the liver and kidneys. However, such a dosage is significantly higher than what is typically used in clinical settings and is not directly comparable.
Conclusion
The history of Xian Mao reflects the enchanting allure of longevity and the search for an elixir of immortality in ancient Chinese culture. Its legend and mythic properties still captivate the imagination of many to this day. Nonetheless, the lessons learned from the historical misuse of Xian Mao serve as a reminder to exercise caution and discernment when using herbal medicines and supplements. In the quest for health and longevity, it is essential to approach remedies with a balanced and informed perspective.