Loquat Leaf
Loquat Leaf (Pi Pa Ye): A Lung-Clearing Herb for Cough, Nausea, and Heat-Phlegm
Introduction
Loquat leaf, known as Pi Pa Ye (枇杷叶) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a cooling herb used to clear Lung heat, stop cough, and direct rebellious qi downward. It is especially effective for dry or phlegmy coughs, wheezing, and nausea caused by heat or Stomach qi reversal. With its soothing and slightly bitter nature, Pi Pa Ye is a popular ingredient in herbal syrups and teas for respiratory and digestive conditions.
What Is Loquat Leaf?
Pi Pa Ye is the leaf of the Eriobotrya japonica tree, a small fruiting tree native to East Asia. In TCM, it is classified as bitter and cool, and it enters the Lung and Stomach meridians. Traditionally, loquat leaf is used to clear Lung heat, transform phlegm, harmonize the Stomach, and relieve nausea. It is often found in loquat-based cough syrups, teas, or decoctions aimed at respiratory relief.
Health Benefits of Loquat Leaf
Clears Lung Heat and Stops Cough
Used for dry, hacking coughs or coughs with thick yellow phlegm due to Lung heat.
Transforms Phlegm and Calms Wheezing
Relieves symptoms of phlegmy chest congestion, shortness of breath, or bronchitis.
Descends Stomach Qi and Relieves Nausea
Helpful for hiccups, nausea, and vomiting caused by rebellious Stomach qi or heat.
Moistens the Lungs Without Overly Cooling
Its balanced nature gently clears heat while preserving Lung fluids.
Commonly Used in Syrups and Teas
A familiar ingredient in traditional Chinese herbal loquat cough syrup for soothing the throat.
How to Use Loquat Leaf
In Decoctions for Cough or Nausea
Use 6–12 grams, ideally after scraping off the fuzz, with herbs like apricot seed, fritillaria, or licorice. Simmer 20–30 minutes.
In Cough Syrups or Herbal Teas
Often prepared as a loquat leaf syrup or combined with honey and tangerine peel in teas.
In Formulas for Lung Heat or Stomach Disharmony
Included in blends like Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin for persistent cough or Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang for Stomach qi reversal.
Where to Buy Loquat Leaf
You can find Pi Pa Ye at the following places:
- Chinese herbal medicine shops
- Natural health apothecaries and cough remedy stores
- Online retailers like iHerb, Amazon, or TCM-specific sites
Look for:
- Long, firm dried leaves with a silvery fuzz on the underside
- Clean, mold-free, and clearly labeled botanical source
- Organic or wildcrafted varieties preferred when possible
Are There Any Side Effects?
Loquat leaf is generally safe, but the fuzz on the underside may irritate the throat or lungs if not removed before decoction. Its cooling nature may aggravate cold-type conditions or weak digestion if used long-term. Pregnant individuals should consult a professional before use.
Conclusion
Loquat leaf, or Pi Pa Ye, is a soothing and cooling herb in TCM used to treat Lung heat coughs, phlegm, and digestive upset. Whether in a gentle syrup or full-strength decoction, it offers reliable relief for upper respiratory discomfort and Stomach rebellion with minimal side effects when properly prepared.
FAQs
Can I take loquat leaf every day?
It’s safe for short-term use in teas or syrups for cough or nausea but should be balanced in long-term use.
What does loquat leaf taste like?
It has a slightly bitter, herbal flavor with a mild cooling sensation.
Is loquat leaf safe for children?
Yes, in appropriate doses and commonly included in pediatric cough syrups, with supervision.