Gold Coin Grass

Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao): A Slightly Cold, Sweet-Bland Herb for Clearing Damp-Heat, Promoting Urination, and Resolving Stones

Introduction

Gold Coin Grass, known as Jin Qian Cao (金钱草) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally used to clear Damp-Heat, promote urination, and expel urinary and biliary stones. Slightly cold and sweet-bland in nature, it is valued for supporting the Liver, Gallbladder, and urinary system.

What Is Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao)?

Gold Coin Grass is the dried whole plant of Lysimachia christinae. In TCM, it is primarily associated with clearing Damp-Heat from the Liver, Gallbladder, and Bladder, and is especially well known for its use in stone-related conditions. Its gentle yet effective action makes it a common choice for urinary and gallbladder disorders linked to Damp-Heat.

Health Benefits of Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao)

Promotes Urination and Drains Damp-Heat
Traditionally used for painful or difficult urination, dark or scanty urine, and urinary tract discomfort associated with Damp-Heat.

Resolves Urinary and Gallstones
Classically used to help expel kidney stones and gallstones, particularly when accompanied by Damp-Heat signs such as pain, fullness, or jaundice.

Clears Liver and Gallbladder Damp-Heat
Helps address symptoms such as hypochondriac pain, bitter taste in the mouth, or jaundice linked to Gallbladder Heat.

Supports Detoxification
Traditionally used to clear Heat and toxins, sometimes applied in formulas for boils, sores, or inflammatory conditions.

How to Use Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao)

As a Herbal Decoction
Commonly decocted alone or with other Damp-Heat–clearing herbs such as Yin Chen or Che Qian Zi, depending on the pattern.

In Traditional Formulas
Frequently included in classical and modern formulas targeting urinary stones, gallstones, or Damp-Heat jaundice.

Granules or Powders
Available in concentrated extracts for convenient use under practitioner guidance.

Under Practitioner Guidance
Best used with professional supervision, especially for stone conditions or long-term use.

Where to Buy Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao)

You can find Gold Coin Grass at:

• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Specialty herbal retailers
• Licensed online TCM suppliers

Look for:

• Whole, intact dried plants
• Greenish-brown color with coin-shaped leaves
• A mild, grassy aroma
• No mold or excessive moisture

Are There Any Side Effects?

Gold Coin Grass is generally considered safe when used appropriately. Individuals with Cold or deficiency patterns should use caution, as its cooling nature may weaken digestion or aggravate Cold symptoms if overused.

Conclusion

Gold Coin Grass (Jin Qian Cao) is a well-known TCM herb valued for clearing Damp-Heat, promoting urination, and resolving urinary and gallstones, particularly in Heat-related patterns.

FAQs

Is Gold Coin Grass toxic?
No, Gold Coin Grass is not considered toxic when properly prepared and used at appropriate doses.

Can Gold Coin Grass be used daily?
It is usually used short-term or in targeted formulas rather than as a long-term daily herb unless directed by a practitioner.

Is Gold Coin Grass warming or cooling?
It is slightly cold, making it most suitable for Damp-Heat conditions rather than Cold or deficiency patterns.