Lotus Root Node

Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie): A Neutral, Sweet-Astringent Herb for Stopping Bleeding, Clearing Heat, and Cooling the Blood

Introduction

Lotus Root Node, known as Ou Jie (藕节) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally used to stop bleeding, clear Heat, and cool the Blood. Neutral in temperature and sweet-astringent in nature, it is valued for supporting the Blood system and digestive tract, particularly in conditions involving bleeding due to Heat or Blood agitation.

What Is Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie)?

Lotus Root Node is the knotted joint of the lotus root (Nelumbo nucifera). In TCM, it is primarily used for its hemostatic properties, especially when bleeding is caused by Heat in the Blood. Its astringent quality helps restrain bleeding, while its neutral nature allows it to be used in both warm and cool presentations.

Health Benefits of Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie)

Stops Bleeding
Traditionally used for nosebleeds, coughing blood, vomiting blood, blood in the stool, uterine bleeding, or traumatic bleeding, especially when associated with Heat.

Cools the Blood
Helps clear Blood Heat that may lead to reckless movement of Blood, making it useful in acute bleeding conditions.

Clears Heat
Assists in reducing internal Heat that contributes to inflammation or bleeding disorders.

Supports Digestive and Blood Balance
Often used to stabilize the middle burner while addressing bleeding without causing stagnation.

How to Use Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie)

As a Herbal Decoction
Typically decocted alone or with other hemostatic herbs such as Imperata Rhizome (Bai Mao Gen) or Rehmannia Root (Sheng Di Huang), depending on the pattern.

In Traditional Formulas
Included in classical formulas designed to cool the Blood and stop bleeding.

Powdered or Charred Form
Sometimes used powdered or carbonized (Ou Jie Tan) to enhance its bleeding-stopping effects.

Where to Buy Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie)

You can find Lotus Root Node at:

• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Asian herbal markets
• Licensed online TCM suppliers

Look for:

• Distinct knotted segments of lotus root
• Clean, well-dried pieces without mold
• Light brown to tan coloration
• Clear labeling indicating lotus root node (Ou Jie)

Are There Any Side Effects?

Lotus Root Node is generally considered safe when used appropriately. Because of its astringent nature, excessive or prolonged use may contribute to stagnation or be unsuitable when bleeding is caused by Blood stasis rather than Heat.

Conclusion

Lotus Root Node (Ou Jie) is a traditional TCM herb valued for stopping bleeding, cooling the Blood, clearing Heat, and stabilizing internal balance.

FAQs

Is Lotus Root Node toxic?
No, Lotus Root Node is not considered toxic when properly prepared and used at appropriate doses.

Can Lotus Root Node be used daily?
It is typically used short-term or as part of a formula rather than taken continuously on its own.

Is Lotus Root Node warming or cooling?
It is neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of bleeding patterns, especially those involving Blood Heat.