Witnessed by: TCM
Torreya (Torreya grandis), of the Taxaceae family. Evergreen coniferous tree; native range: eastern China. Globally recognized as fei zi (榧子) in Chinese, and torreya seed, Chinese nutmeg yew in English. The part used is ripe seed. Oval brown-shelled seed with a rich oily, sweet-astringent kernel when roasted.
In this cross-tradition database, we analyze how this substance operates across world medicine systems — tracking its traditional tastes, temperatures, tissue affinities, post-digestive effects, and planetary correspondences across Ayurveda, Unani, and Western herbalism.
TORREYA
IDENTITY
Name
- Common
- torreya
- Scientific name
- Torreya grandis Fortune ex Lindl.
- Family
- Taxaceae
Form
- Part used
- ripe seed
PROPERTIES
Nature
Taste
how the plant declares itself on the tongue
- TCM
- sweet
Temperature
- TCM
- neutral
Affinity
where in the body it travels
Organs / channels
- TCM
- Large Intestine · Stomach · Lung
PRACTICE
Virtue
Actions
- TCM
- kills intestinal parasites, reduces food accumulation, and moistens the intestines
Cautions
- Contraindications
- caution with loose stools; avoid excessive amounts, which can loosen the bowels
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