Common Name: |
Job's Tears |
Botanical Name: |
Coix-lachryma-jobi |
Genus: |
Coix |
Family: |
Poaceae |
Native Location: |
SE Asia |
Cultivation: |
Moist soil in sun. May be affected by powdery mildew. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in spring at 13-16°C (55-61°F) |
Harvest: |
Fruits are collected when ripe in autumn, and the husks are removed before using fresh, roasted, or fermented. |
Height: |
45cm-1.5m (1½-5ft) |
Width: |
30cm (12in) |
Hardiness: |
Half hardy |
Parts Used: |
Fruits (yi yi ren) |
Properties: |
A sweet, cooling herb that reduces inflammation, relieves pain and spasms, lowers fever, and controls bacterial and fungal infections. It acts mainly as a spleen tonic and has sedative effects. Large doses lower blood sugar levels. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for arthritis (especially rheumatoid), urinary problems, lung abscesses, and diarrhea associated with spleen weakness; liquor from fermented seeds is given for rheumatic pain. Not given to pregnant women. |
Culinary Uses: |
Seeds can be hulled and boiled like rice or ground as flour. Grains are also added to soups and desserts, or brewed into beer (India). Seeds used for making tea (Japan). |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 175 |