Fox Nut / Euryale Ferox (qian shi) 芡實

 Nature: Neutral; sweet and sour; attributive to kidneys and spleen.

Characteristics: The seeds of a small deciduous shrub, cultivated like lotus with large floating leaves and a large violet flower. The seeds are oval with a whitish color and contain about 10% protein and lots of starch. It is a superior herb highly regarded for restoring sexual vigor and youthful energy in older men, and for retarding aging. It is commonly used as food.

Therapeutic effects: Strengthen kidney to preserve essence, deprive dampness to relieve leucorrhea, emission, frequent urination; strengthen the spleen to relieve diarrhea; regulated blood pressure; relieve numbness and aching near waist and knees. It is suitable for arthritis; impotence; and premature aging.