Gouji, also known as Cibotium barometz, has captivated the interest of herbalists and traditional medicine practitioners for centuries. Renowned for its unique appearance and potent medicinal properties, Gouji—or Rhizome of Scythian Lamb—is more than just a curious-looking plant.
This article explores its benefits, uses, and precautions, giving you an in-depth look at one of East Asia’s most fascinating herbal remedies.
What Is Gouji?
Gouji, commonly referred to as Cibotium barometz, belongs to the Dicksoniaceae family and is a perennial fern. Its rhizome (root-like stem) is the part used in traditional medicine1. This plant gets its nickname “Golden Hair Dog Spine” because its dry rhizome is covered with golden, wool-like fibers, which resemble the hair of an animal2.
Native to regions such as China, Southeast Asia, and parts of East Asia, Gouji thrives in subtropical forests. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the rhizome of Gouji—also called Cibotii Rhizoma—has been used for centuries to address a variety of ailments3.
Tip: In Chinese, Gouji(Cibotium barometz) and Gouqi(Babury Wolfberry Fruit) are pronounced similarly, and they both belong to the traditional Chinese medicine, but the former is the root of a plant, while the latter is a berry.
- Wujiapi (五加皮) herbal: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects
- Sangjisheng (桑寄生) Herb: What it is, benefits and risks
- Fangji (Fourstamen Stephania Root): What It Is, Benefits, and Risks
- QinJiao (Gentian Root): What It Is, Benefits, Uses, and Risks
Health Benefits
1. Alleviates Joint and Muscle Pain
One of the primary uses of Gouji in traditional medicine is its ability to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis and rheumatism4. It is particularly effective in treating stiffness in the lower back and knees, making it popular among the elderly and those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Research Insight: Studies have shown that Gouji contains compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help reduce swelling and pain in joints5.
2. Strengthens Liver and Kidneys
In TCM, Gouji is known to “nourish the liver and kidneys.” These organs are seen as essential to overall vitality. By strengthening them, Gouji enhances energy levels, promotes bone health, and improves flexibility6.
TCM Classic Reference: The ancient medical text “Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing” praises Gouji for its ability to “fortify the kidneys and strengthen the spine.”
3. Improves Mobility and Flexibility
Gouji is often used to treat mobility issues such as weakness in the legs, difficulty walking, or joint stiffness. It is considered a powerful remedy for anyone experiencing reduced mobility due to aging or illness7.
4. Supports Urinary and Reproductive Health
This herb is traditionally used to manage conditions like frequent urination, incontinence, and excessive vaginal discharge8. Gouji’s warming properties help stabilize the lower abdominal area, making it a go-to remedy for urinary and reproductive issues in both men and women.
Medical Uses
Traditional Preparations
Gouji is typically prepared as a decoction, where its dried rhizome is boiled in water to extract its active compounds. It is also included in herbal powders, pills, and even soups9.
Popular Herbal Combinations
To enhance its effects, Gouji is often paired with other medicinal herbs10:
- With Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong): For lower back pain and weak knees.
- With Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi): To treat chronic kidney issues.
- With Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum): For a nourishing soup that boosts energy and vitality.
Modern Applications
In addition to traditional uses, modern research is exploring Gouji’s potential for treating conditions like osteoporosis, inflammation, and even cancer. Its bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, have shown promise in preliminary studies11.
Risks and Precautions
While Gouji offers numerous health benefits, there are certain precautions to keep in mind12:
- Not Suitable for Everyone:
- People with kidney heat deficiency or urinary infections should avoid Gouji, as its warming properties can exacerbate these conditions.
- Those with liver fire or other heat-related disorders are also advised to use Gouji cautiously.
- Potential Side Effects:
- Overconsumption may cause mild digestive discomfort.
- Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new herbal remedy.
- Interactions with Medications:
- Gouji may interfere with certain medications, particularly those for blood thinning or chronic conditions. Discuss its use with your doctor if you are on any prescriptions.
How to use it
Herbal Tea Recipe
Here’s a simple way to enjoy Gouji as a soothing tea13:
Ingredients:
- 10g of dried Gouji rhizome
- 500ml of water
- Optional: Goji berries or honey for added flavor
Instructions:
- Rinse the dried Gouji.
- Boil it in 500ml of water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy the tea warm.
Healing Soup
In East Asian households, Gouji is often added to soups for its healing properties. Combine Gouji with lamb, dates, and ginger for a nourishing winter recipe14.
FAQs
Q: Is Gouji the same as Goji berries?
A: No, Gouji refers to the rhizome of the fern Cibotium barometz, while Goji berries come from the plant Lycium barbarum. They are often used together in traditional recipes but serve different purposes.
Q: Where can I buy Gouji?
A: Gouji is available in herbal shops and online marketplaces. Look for dried rhizomes labeled as “Cibotium barometz” or “Cibotii Rhizoma.”
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: For chronic conditions, consistent use over several weeks may be needed to observe noticeable improvements. However, always follow dosage guidelines.
Bottom line
Whether you’re exploring herbal remedies for joint pain, seeking to strengthen your kidneys, or simply curious about traditional medicine, Gouji (Cibotium barometz) is a fascinating option worth considering. With its rich history and proven benefits, this “golden hair” herb continues to play a vital role in traditional and modern health practices.
However, as with any herbal treatment, balance and caution are key. Consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Gouji into your routine to ensure it aligns with your specific needs.
Trusted source
- https://sys01.lib.hkbu.edu.hk/cmed/mmid/detail.php?pid=B00064 ↩︎
- https://yibian.hopto.org/db/?yno=11 ↩︎
- https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E7%8B%97%E8%84%8A/469257 ↩︎
- 王忠良. 碎补狗脊汤治疗腰痛 63 例[J]. 湖南中医杂志, 1988, 4. ↩︎
- Heng Y W, Ban J J, Khoo K S, et al. Biological activities and phytochemical content of the rhizome hairs of Cibotium barometz (Cibotiaceae)[J]. Industrial crops and products, 2020, 153: 112612. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669020305288 ↩︎
- https://www.zysj.com.cn/zhongyaocai/gouji/index.html ↩︎
- https://sys01.lib.hkbu.edu.hk/cmed/mmid/detail.php?pid=B00064&page=1&sort=name_cht ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n1/2020/1118/c14739-31934783.html ↩︎
- https://zyj.beijing.gov.cn/sy/whkp/201912/t20191219_1309669.html ↩︎
- https://www.miaoshou.net/article/WaOg8mVXBMekYXGl_f01ba1143d626f6f.html ↩︎
- 胡彦武, 于俊林. 中药狗脊的化学成分及药理作用研究进展[J]. 时珍国医国药, 2006, 17(2): 275-276. ↩︎
- https://health.baidu.com/m/detail/ar_15851720053118963394(Chief Physician Hu Jun Department of Pediatrics, Union Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University) ↩︎
- https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E7%8B%97%E8%84%8A%E8%8C%B6/4939780 ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n1/2020/1118/c14739-31934783.html ↩︎
