Alisma (ze xie)
Alisma plantago-aquatica · 泽泻
Herbs & Roots. Chinese Medicine.
Also called Ze xie, Water plantain rhizome, Alisma root
Pinyin: Zé Xiè
Acts as a diureticA water-plant rhizome used in Chinese medicine as a diuretic to clear extra fluid and dampness.
Did you know? Ze xie grows in shallow water and marshes, and its Chinese name uses the character ze, which means marsh.
What it may help, and how strong the proof is
- Kidneys, bladder & UTIs. Used for urine flow problems and swelling in tradition. Human trials are few.Traditional proof
- Cholesterol. Lab and animal studies show lower blood fats. Human proof is limited.Traditional proof
Parts of the body
Traditional use
Chinese medicine uses ze xie to drain dampness, help urine flow, and ease dizziness from fluid build-up. It is in classic formulas such as Ze Xie Tang and Wu Ling San.
How it is classified
How people take it
Traditional decoctions use about 6 to 10 grams of dried rhizome. Extracts sold for cholesterol use less consistent doses.
Decoction, powder and capsule.
Where to get it
Grown in China and other parts of Asia. Sold as dried rhizome slices, powder, and in formulas.
Be careful
Acts as a diuretic, so it can increase urination and lower fluid and salt levels. It may raise lithium levels and add to the effect of diuretic drugs. Avoid in pregnancy and in kidney disease.
Avoid if: pregnancy; kidney disease.
Mixing with other things
- Works well together
Paired in Ze Xie Tang (Alisma Decoction) for dizziness from damp fluid.
- Works well together
Paired with poria in Wu Ling San (Five Ingredient Powder) to drain dampness.
- Works well together
Both drain dampness and help urine flow in classic Chinese formulas.
- Use cautionLithium (for bipolar disorder)
Diuretic effects may raise lithium levels.
- Use cautionWater pills (furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
May add to fluid and salt loss with diuretic medicines.
Found in these formulas
Six Flavor Rehmannia (TCM)
The honest take
Alisma is a long-used diuretic in Chinese medicine. Human proof for lipid or kidney claims is limited. Its diuretic effect is real, so use it with care if you take diuretics or lithium.