Lái Fú Zǐ (莱菔子) — Radish Seed

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Modern research
5. Cautions and contraindications
6. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Lái Fú Zǐ (莱菔子) is the dried ripe seed of Raphanus sativus, the common radish, known in English as radish seed. It belongs to the category of Herbs that reduce food stagnation in the Chinese Materia Medica and is one of the most useful herbs in Chinese herbal medicine for indigestion, food stagnation, abdominal bloating and productive cough with phlegm. It is a gentle, widely-available kitchen herb suitable for everyday digestive complaints when used within a properly composed formula.

I prescribe Lái Fú Zǐ as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Reduces food stagnation and dispels distension
2. Descends rebellious Qi and transforms phlegm

Indications

1. Food stagnation with abdominal distension, belching with sour regurgitation and a thick greasy tongue coat
2. Constipation from food stagnation with focal distention
3. Productive cough with thick phlegm and wheezing from cold-phlegm in the Lung
4. Sluggish digestion with overeating, particularly of starchy or greasy foods

4. Modern research

Radish seed contains volatile oils (raphanin and related sulphur-containing compounds), erucic acid, sinapine, and a range of plant proteins. Pharmacological studies report antibacterial, gastroprokinetic, mild antitussive and expectorant effects. Raphanin has been investigated for antimicrobial activity. Modern clinical use mirrors the traditional picture: a useful adjunct in mild dyspepsia and productive cough.

5. Cautions and contraindications

Traditionally considered antagonistic to ginseng-based Qi tonics: in a Qi-deficient patient, Lái Fú Zǐ’s descending action can blunt the tonifying effect, so the two are not usually combined in a deficiency presentation. Use with caution in patients with weak Spleen Qi and chronic loose stools without food stagnation.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM).

6. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Lái Fú Zǐ as part of tailored herbal formulas for chronic indigestion, abdominal bloating, food-stagnation patterns, and productive cough with thick phlegm. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available.

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