Other names for ophiopogon root

Mai Men Dong
Ophiopogon Tuber
Dwarf Lilyturf Root

Synopsis of ophiopogon root

Ophiopogon root, derived from Ophiopogon japonicus, is a traditional medicinal herb used primarily in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and known by the Chinese name Mai Men Dong. It belongs to the lily family and is classified as a yin-nourishing herb, particularly beneficial for the lungs, stomach, and heart. The root is rich in steroidal saponins, polysaccharides, flavonoids, and mucilage-like compounds, which contribute to its moistening, cooling, and protective properties.

Medicinally, ophiopogon root is used to nourish yin, moisten dryness, clear heat, and generate body fluids. It is commonly prescribed for dry coughs, dry throat, irritability, and insomnia due to yin deficiency. It’s also beneficial for dry constipation and chronic atrophic gastritis, where yin deficiency affects the gastrointestinal lining.

Modern research suggests that the root may have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, cardiotonic, and antidiabetic effects. Some studies have shown promise in its ability to improve myocardial function, reduce oxidative stress, and even support mucosal repair in conditions like dry mouth or oral ulcers. The polysaccharides in ophiopogon may also help modulate immune response and support gut integrity.

Historical Use in Medicine
Ophiopogon root has been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years and is a key herb in many classical formulations, such as Sheng Mai San (Generating the Pulse Powder), often used to tonify both qi and yin in cases of fatigue, palpitations, and chronic lung conditions. Ancient Chinese physicians considered the herb essential for restoring bodily fluids and balancing internal heat, especially in patients who were overworked, stressed, or recovering from illness.

In Daoist medicine, ophiopogon was valued not just for physical nourishment but also for calming the shen (spirit). It was often included in tonics for spiritual stability, longevity, and meditative clarity. Tao Hongjing and other classical Chinese herbalists recommended it to nourish the "heart yin"—believed to regulate emotional balance and sleep.

Though less known in Western herbal traditions, ophiopogon was introduced through global trade routes and has gained attention in integrative and naturopathic circles for its adaptogenic and mucosal-protective benefits. It is now used in some herbal respiratory formulas and skin hydrators due to its moistening and anti-inflammatory qualities.

In Japan, the herb is known as Jakōsō and has a similar historical role in Kampo medicine, where it is used for lung dryness, hoarseness, and gastrointestinal cooling. Across all these traditions, ophiopogon root serves as a botanical remedy for restoring internal moisture and calming inflammation—especially in chronic, heat-related deficiencies.

Ophiopogon root is used for these health conditions

Asthma (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestive Heart Failure (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Night Sweating (Traditional)
Sleep (restless and disturbed) (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Worry (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

ophiopogon root is used to support these body systems

Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)

Products containing ophiopogon root

Metagenics Serenagen®
Metagenics Serenagen