Lycopus lucidus
| Lycopus lucidus | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Asterids |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lycopus |
| Species: | L. lucidus |
| Binomial name | |
| Lycopus lucidus Turcz. ex Benth. | |
Lycopus lucidus is a species of plant in the Lamiaceae family. The dried rhizomes are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where they are known as Lycopi rhizoma and have a reputation for promoting blood circulation and energy (qi), and preventing water retention. They are said to have a "warming" property, and have a mild bittersweet flavor.
Bowl of deep fried Lycopus lucidus rhizomes
References
- "Flora of China". eFloras.org.
- "Di Sun". Asian Anti-Cancer Materia Database.
- Yun Y, Han S, Park E, Yim D, Lee S, Lee CK, Cho K, Kim K (December 2003). "Immunomodulatory activity of betulinic acid by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of macrophages". Arch Pharm Res 16 (12): 1087–95. PMID 14723345.
Media related to Lycopus lucidus at Wikimedia Commons
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