The source is from the ripe seed of the arbor Myristica fragrans Houtt., family Myristicacene. The medicinal material is mainly produced in Malaysia and Indonesia. In China it is cultivated in Guangdong and other places. The ripe fruit is collected in winter and spring. The shell being removed, the seeds are dried, and then roasted to get rid of the oil for medication.

Medicinal Properties: Pungent in flavor, warm in nature and attributive to the spleen, stomach and large intestine meridians.

Actions: Astringe the intestine to arrest diarrhea and warm the middle energizer to promote flow of qi.

 

Application
1. It is indicated for chronic diarrhea. For that due to asthenia and cold of the spleen and stomach, it can be used in combination with Dangshen (Radix Codonopsis), Baizhu (Rhizoma Atraetylodis Macrocephalae), Rougui (Cortex Cinnamomi ), etc., such as Yangzang Tang (Decoction); for that with diarrhea at dawn due to yang-deficiency of the spleen and kidney, it can be used in combination with Buguzhi ( Fructus Psoraleae ), Wuzhuyu ( Fructus Evodiae ) and Wuweizi ( Fructus Schisandrae), such as Sishen Wan (Pill).
2. In treating stomach-cold with stagnation of qi manifested as abdominal pain, poor appetite and vomiting, it is often used in combination with Muxiang (Radix Aucklandiae ), Ganjiang ( Rhizoma Zingiberis ) and Banxia (Rhizoma Pinetliae), etc..

Usage and Dosage: 3 -10 g is used in decoction and 1.5 -3 g is used in pill or powder.

Notes: It is contraindicated in those with dysentery due to damp and heat.