Individual Herbs Notebook

Ma Qian Zi

Pharmaceutical: Semen Strychni

Other names: Nux-Vomica Seeds / Poison Nut Seeds

Category: Obsolete Substances



Properties: Bitter, cold, strongly toxic

Meridans Entered:
Primary: Liver and Spleen


Traditional Actions/Indications:
  1. Unblocks the channels and collaterals, disperses clumps, cools Blood Heat to reduce swelling and alleviates pain
    Abscess, sores and Yin type ulcers
    Swelling and pain due to trauma
    Very stubborn Wind-Damp Bi with pain, paresthesias, numbness and spasms
    Tumors
    Phlegm-Damp Obstructs Heart
    Liver and Kidney Deficiencies
    Wind-Cold-Damp Bi
    Liver and Gallbladder Qi Stagnation Stomach Qi Stagnation

Suggested Daily Dosage: Processed and made into pills or powders, 0.3-0.6g daily.


Cautions: Do not use unprocessed, overuse or use for a long time orally. Do not apply on large region externally. It is prohibited for the pregnant and weak.

This herb is prohibited from use in the UK under the banned and restricted herbal ingredients list issued by the MHRA.


Does not appear in any formulae listed on this site
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