Suǒ Yáng (锁阳) — Cynomorium
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1. Overview
Suǒ Yáng (锁阳) — the fleshy stem of Cynomorium songaricum — is a sweet, warm Chinese herb that tonifies Kidney Yang, strengthens the sinews and bones, and moistens the Intestines. It is similar in action to Rou Cong Rong (Cistanche) and the two are commonly paired. It is particularly useful where the dual indication of Kidney Yang deficiency AND dry constipation is present — common in elderly men.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Suǒ Yáng |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 锁阳 |
| Latin name | Herba Cynomorii / Cynomorium songaricum |
| English name | Cynomorium |
| Nature | Warm |
| Flavour | Sweet |
| Channels entered | Liver, Kidney, Large Intestine |
| Category | Tonify Yang |
| Dosage | 5–15 g, decocted |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang and benefits Essence — for impotence, infertility, premature ejaculation, weak lower back and knees.
- Strengthens sinews and bones — for weakness and atrophy of the legs in chronic Kidney deficiency.
- Moistens the Intestines and unblocks the bowels — for constipation due to Blood deficiency or Yang deficiency, especially in the elderly.
4. Key formulas
- Hu Qian Wan — for Liver and Kidney deficiency with weakness and atrophy of the lower limbs.
- Pairs naturally with Rou Cong Rong in geriatric tonics.
5. Cautions
Contraindicated in Yin deficiency with Heat signs, and in loose stools or diarrhoea. Caution in patients with strong digestive fire.
6. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Suo Yang in Yang-tonifying granule formulas, particularly for older male patients with combined Kidney Yang deficiency and dry constipation. Online Chinese herbal consultations are available. See prices for costs.
