Niunai Mei is the name of a traditional Chinese medicine. It is the root of Rubus sumatranus Miq. [syn. R. sorbifolius Maxim.], a plant in the family Rosaceae. It grows in mountain and valley sparse or dense forests, forest edges, thickets, under bamboo forests, and in grasslands at elevations of 500–1,800 meters. It is recorded in Tianmu Mountain Medicinal Plant Flora, Xinhua Materia Medica Outline, Chinese Materia Medica, and other herbal works.

Efficacy & Actions

Clears Heat and removes toxin; promotes appetite; promotes diuresis.

Indications

Postpartum abdominal pain with chills and fever; poor appetite; edema; otitis media.

Usage & Dosage

Oral use: Decocted in water, 9–15 g.

Selected Formulas

For postpartum alternating chills and fever, abdominal pain, and poor appetite (Tianmu Mountain Medicinal Plant Records) Take 120–150g of the fine roots and tuberous roots of the creeping stems of Niunai Mei (a local herb). Chop and stir-fry until dry, add 4–5 slices of Qiai (Artemisia argyi from Qichun). Decoct in water, then mix with brown sugar and yellow wine. Take once before breakfast and once before dinner. For postpartum abdominal pain (Color Illustrated Atlas of Natural Chinese Medicines) Take 10g each of Niunai Mei, Yimucao (Leonurus japonicus), and Ganjiang (dried ginger). Decoct in water and drink. For poor appetite (Color Illustrated Atlas of Natural Chinese Medicines) Take 10g each of Niunai Mei, Cili (Rosa roxburghii), and Jishiteng (Paederia scandens). Decoct in water and drink. For edema (Color Illustrated Atlas of Natural Chinese Medicines) Take 15g of Niunai Mei, and 10g each of Sijihong (a local herb) and Tufuling (Smilax glabra). Decoct in water and drink.

Medicinal Parts

Root.

Selection & Storage

Dried material should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry place. Protect from moisture and insect damage. Airtight storage is recommended. Avoid direct sunlight. Fresh material should be used promptly or refrigerated for short-term storage.