Bamboo (bambusa spp.)

Table of Contents

Other names

Bamboo Extract
Bamboo Leaf
Bamboo Silica

Synopsis

Bamboo refers to a group of fast-growing grasses in the Poaceae family, with over 1,400 species found across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. While most people know bamboo for its woody stalks and structural uses, several parts of the plant—including the young shoots, leaves, and resin (silica-rich exudate)—have long been used in traditional medicine, nutrition, and cosmetic applications.

Bamboo shoots are nutrient-dense, low in calories, and rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and phytochemicals such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and lignans. They support digestive health, cholesterol regulation, weight management, and may exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The shoots also contain plant sterols that may contribute to heart health and metabolic balance.

One of bamboo’s most important medicinal components is bamboo silica (tabasheer)—a white, mineral-rich substance found in the hollow joints of certain bamboo species. It is a potent source of bioavailable silica, which supports:

  • Bone density and connective tissue strength
  • Hair, skin, and nail health
  • Collagen production and skin elasticity
  • Joint lubrication and cartilage repair

In addition, bamboo leaves and extracts have been studied for antibacterial, antiviral, and diuretic properties, with applications in skin care, liver support, and detoxification.

Historical Use:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bamboo is used in various forms:

  • Zhu Ru (bamboo shavings): clears heat and phlegm from the Lung and Stomach, calms the Shen (spirit), and is used for nausea, irritability, and insomnia.
  • Zhu Li (bamboo sap or resin): used to treat convulsions, seizures, or stroke-related phlegm obstruction.
  • Bamboo leaves: known for cooling and detoxifying properties, used to clear heat from the Heart, promote urination, and relieve restlessness or fevers.

In Ayurveda, bamboo is referred to as Vanshlochan and is particularly valued for its silica-rich exudate. It is used as a rejuvenative herb, believed to support respiratory health, bone strength, and fertility. Bamboo’s cooling, tonic qualities make it useful in managing heat-related conditions, cough, and nervous exhaustion.

Throughout Southeast Asia, bamboo shoots have been a culinary and medicinal staple, often used to treat diarrhea, digestive discomfort, and as a general tonic. In folk remedies, bamboo poultices were applied to skin infections and wounds, and its leaves were brewed as a cleansing tea.

Today, bamboo continues to be used in both natural health and cosmetic products, prized for its digestive, skeletal, and skin-supportive properties, and celebrated as a sustainable, multifunctional plant in both traditional and modern wellness systems.

Uses: Health Conditions

Edema (Traditional)

Body Systems

Structural System (Science)
Hair (Science)
Nails (Science)
Skin (Science)