ophiopogon japonicus

Ophiopogon japonicus is a perennial herb native to East Asia and widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) under the name Mai Men Dong. The medicinal part is the root tuber (Ophiopogonis Radix), which contains bioactive compounds such as steroidal saponins, homoisoflavonoids, polysaccharides, and plant sterols like beta-sitosterol. Traditionally prescribed for over two thousand years in China and Japan, it is used to nourish yin, moisten the lungs and stomach, promote body fluid production, ease the mind (calm anxiety), clear heart fire (reduce inflammation), relieve dry coughs and throat irritation, treat insomnia and palpitations. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β and IL-6) through MAPK pathway modulation; antioxidant activity; cardiovascular protection by reducing oxidative stress; immunomodulation; anticancer potential; antimicrobial action against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli; antidiabetic effects; cough relief; skin barrier repair with moisturizing properties for dermatological use including atopic dermatitis[2][4][5][7][9]. It is also considered a functional food ingredient.

Other names

mai men dongmaidongbakumondomondo grassdwarf lilyturfJapanese lily