Herb Root (根 gēn)

Nuo Dao Gen

Glutinous rice root · 糯稻根

Oryza sativa L. var. glutinosa Matsum. · Radix Oryzae Glutinosae

Also known as: Nuo Dao Gen Xu (糯稻根须)

Nuo Dao Gen (Glutinous rice root) plant

Images shown are for educational purposes only

Glutinous rice root is a gentle, mild herb primarily used to help stop excessive sweating, whether during the day (spontaneous sweating) or at night (night sweats). It also soothes the stomach, helps generate body fluids to relieve dry mouth and throat, and calms low-grade fevers caused by internal depletion. It is commonly used during recovery from illness or for people with chronic weakness who sweat too easily.

Category Astringent / Stabilizing herbs (收涩药) Herbs that stabilize the Exterior and stop sweating (固表止汗药)
Therapeutic focus Hot Flashes and Night Sweats Post-Illness Recovery Digestive Health Low-Grade Fever Management

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Sweet (甘 gān)

Channels entered

Liver, Lungs, Kidneys

Parts used

Root (根 gēn)

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Educational content • Consult qualified TCM practitioners for diagnosis and treatment

What This Herb Does

Every herb has a specific set of actions — here's what Nuo Dao Gen does in the body, explained in both everyday and TCM terms

Therapeutic focus

In practical terms, Nuo Dao Gen is primarily used to support these areas of health:

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats Post-Illness Recovery Digestive Health Low-Grade Fever Management

TCM Actions

In TCM terminology, these are the specific therapeutic actions that Nuo Dao Gen performs to restore balance in the body:

Consolidates the Exterior and Stops Sweating Benefits the Stomach and Generates Fluids Clears Deficiency Heat

How these actions work

'Consolidates the exterior and stops sweating' means this herb helps close the pores and prevent excessive loss of body fluids through sweating. It is used for both spontaneous sweating (daytime sweating without exertion) and night sweats. Because it is mild and gentle in nature, it works well for patients who are already weakened, including those recovering from illness or those with chronic conditions where the body's surface defences are weak.

'Benefits the Stomach and generates fluids' means this herb nourishes the Stomach's Yin (its moisture and cooling aspect), helping to relieve dryness in the mouth and throat. This is especially useful when excessive sweating has depleted body fluids, or when the Stomach lacks sufficient moisture to carry out digestion comfortably.

'Clears deficiency Heat' refers to its ability to gently reduce the low-grade fever and flushing that arise from Yin Deficiency. This is not the kind of heat-clearing used for acute infections, but rather for the lingering, smouldering warmth that comes when the body's cooling fluids are depleted, often seen as afternoon fevers, night sweats, and flushed cheeks.

Patterns Addressed

In TCM, symptoms cluster into recognizable patterns of disharmony. Nuo Dao Gen is used to help correct these specific patterns.

Why Nuo Dao Gen addresses this pattern

When the body's Qi is insufficient, it cannot properly hold the pores closed and secure body fluids at the surface. This leads to spontaneous sweating that worsens with even mild activity. Nuo Dao Gen, with its sweet and neutral nature, gently consolidates the exterior and stops sweating. Because it enters the Lung channel (which governs the skin and pores), it helps restore the body's ability to hold its surface defences in place. Its mildness makes it well suited for weakened patients who cannot tolerate stronger astringent herbs.

A practitioner would look for one or more of these signs

Spontaneous Sweat

Daytime sweating without exertion, worse with activity

Eye Fatigue

Tiredness and lack of stamina

Shortness Of Breath

Shortness of breath on mild exertion

Commonly Used For

These are conditions where Nuo Dao Gen is frequently used — but only when they arise from the specific patterns it addresses, not in all cases

Arises from: Yin Deficiency Qi Deficiency

TCM Interpretation

In TCM, night sweats are most commonly understood as a sign that the body's Yin is depleted. During sleep, the body's protective Qi (Wei Qi) moves inward, and if Yin is insufficient, deficiency Heat flares unchecked and pushes body fluids outward through the pores. The result is sweating during sleep that stops on waking, when protective Qi returns to the surface. The Kidneys and Liver, which store Yin and Blood, are the organ systems most frequently involved. In some cases, Qi Deficiency alone can cause night sweats when the body simply lacks the strength to hold fluids in place.

Why Nuo Dao Gen Helps

Nuo Dao Gen addresses night sweats through a two-pronged approach. First, its astringent, consolidating action directly helps close the pores and stop the leaking of body fluids. Second, its ability to clear deficiency Heat and generate fluids tackles the root cause of Yin Deficiency night sweats by cooling the smouldering internal warmth that drives fluids outward. Its neutral temperature is especially important here, as it does not create additional Heat or dryness. It is typically combined with other herbs like Fu Xiao Mai (light wheat) and Mu Li (oyster shell) to strengthen the overall effect.

Also commonly used for

Hepatitis

Used in folk formulas for acute infectious hepatitis

Low Grade Fever

Deficiency-type fevers from Yin depletion

Dry Mouth

From Stomach Yin Deficiency or fluid depletion

Hyperlipidemia

Used in modern clinical studies combined with other herbs

Herb Properties

Every herb has an inherent temperature, taste, and affinity for specific channels — these properties determine how it interacts with the body

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Sweet (甘 gān)

Channels Entered

Liver Lungs Kidneys

Parts Used

Root (根 gēn)

Dosage & Preparation

These are general dosage guidelines for Nuo Dao Gen — always follow your practitioner's recommendation, as dosages vary based on the formula and your individual condition

Standard dosage

15-30g

Maximum dosage

Up to 60-120g in large doses for specific conditions such as filariasis (chyluria), under practitioner supervision only.

Dosage notes

Standard doses of 15-30g are used for spontaneous sweating, night sweats, and mild Yin-deficiency heat. For nourishing the Stomach and generating fluids, 15-30g is generally sufficient. When treating filariasis or chyluria, historically much larger doses (up to 250-500g of fresh root per day) were used in clinical observations, but such doses should only be used under qualified medical supervision. Fresh roots are considered more effective than dried ones when available.

Preparation

No special decoction handling required. The dried roots are simply decocted normally. Fresh roots are preferred when available, as they are considered more potent. Wash thoroughly to remove soil before use.

Common Herb Pairs

These ingredients are traditionally combined with Nuo Dao Gen for enhanced therapeutic effect

Fu Xiao Mai
Fu Xiao Mai Fu Xiao Mai 15-30g : Nuo Dao Gen 15-30g

Nuo Dao Gen and Fu Xiao Mai both stop sweating, but through complementary mechanisms. Fu Xiao Mai enters the Heart channel and calms the Heart while cooling deficiency Heat. Nuo Dao Gen enters the Lung and Kidney channels, consolidating the exterior and generating fluids. Together they address sweating from both the Heart (the source of sweat as 'Heart fluid') and the Lung (which governs the skin and pores), producing a more thorough anti-sweating effect.

When to use: For night sweats or spontaneous sweating from either Qi Deficiency or Yin Deficiency, especially when the patient also has palpitations, restlessness, or dry mouth.

Mu Li Ke
Mu Li Ke Mu Li 15-30g : Nuo Dao Gen 15-30g

Mu Li (oyster shell) is a heavy mineral that draws floating Yang downward and astringes fluids, while Nuo Dao Gen gently consolidates the exterior and nourishes Stomach Yin. Mu Li addresses the root of Yin Deficiency sweating by anchoring unruly Yang, while Nuo Dao Gen directly closes the pores. Together, they simultaneously treat the root cause and the symptom.

When to use: For night sweats with signs of Yin Deficiency and floating Yang, such as restlessness, palpitations, flushed face, or insomnia.

Di Gu Pi
Di Gu Pi Di Gu Pi 9-15g : Nuo Dao Gen 15-30g

Di Gu Pi (lycium root bark) is cool in nature and specialises in clearing deficiency Heat and cooling the Blood, while Nuo Dao Gen stops sweating and generates fluids. Together they strongly clear the smouldering deficiency Heat that drives Yin Deficiency night sweats, while simultaneously preventing further fluid loss.

When to use: For Yin Deficiency fevers with night sweats, tidal afternoon fevers, and steaming bone sensation, especially in patients recovering from chronic illness or tuberculosis.

Comparable Ingredients

These ingredients have overlapping uses — here's how to tell them apart

Ma Huang Gen
Nuo Dao Gen vs Ma Huang Gen

Both consolidate the exterior and stop sweating, but Ma Huang Gen is stronger in its astringent action and is considered the primary sweating-control herb. It focuses purely on stopping sweating without nourishing fluids or clearing deficiency Heat. Nuo Dao Gen is milder in its sweating-stopping effect but has the additional benefits of generating fluids and clearing deficiency Heat, making it better suited for patients whose sweating is accompanied by dry mouth, thirst, and low-grade fevers from Yin Deficiency.

Fu Xiao Mai
Nuo Dao Gen vs Fu Xiao Mai

Both stop sweating and clear deficiency Heat. Fu Xiao Mai is cool in nature and primarily enters the Heart channel, making it especially suited for sweating with Heart-related symptoms like palpitations and restlessness. Nuo Dao Gen is neutral and enters the Lung, Liver, and Kidney channels, with the added benefit of nourishing Stomach Yin and generating fluids. Fu Xiao Mai is better for Heart-based sweating disorders, while Nuo Dao Gen is preferred when Stomach Yin Deficiency or dry mouth and throat are prominent.

Identity & Adulterants

Related species and common adulterations to be aware of when sourcing Nuo Dao Gen

Because Nuo Dao Gen is an inexpensive, widely available agricultural byproduct, deliberate adulteration is uncommon. The main quality concern is substitution with roots from ordinary (non-glutinous) rice varieties (Oryza sativa var. indica or japonica). Non-glutinous rice roots are considered less effective therapeutically. Authentic Nuo Dao Gen is said to come from varieties whose grains are notably opaque-white and sticky when cooked. The two are difficult to distinguish by root appearance alone, so sourcing from reputable suppliers who can verify the cultivar is important.

Educational content — always consult a qualified healthcare provider or TCM practitioner before using any herb.

Toxicity Classification

Classical Chinese pharmacopoeia toxicity rating for Nuo Dao Gen

Non-toxic

Contraindications

Situations where Nuo Dao Gen should not be used or requires extra caution

Caution

People with exterior patterns (common cold or flu with active chills and fever) should avoid using this herb, as its astringent, sweat-stopping nature could trap a pathogen inside the body.

Caution

Those with excessive dampness or phlegm-dampness accumulation should use with caution, as the sweet, nourishing nature of the herb may worsen fluid stagnation.

Caution

Individuals with normal sweating function who do not have pathological sweating (spontaneous sweating or night sweats) should not take this herb, as inappropriately stopping normal perspiration could impair the body's heat regulation.

Special Populations

Important considerations for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and pediatric use

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe during pregnancy at standard doses. Classical sources (Si Chuan Zhong Yao Zhi) actually note it can be combined with Huang Qin and Bai Zhu to calm a restless fetus, suggesting a history of safe use in pregnancy. However, as with all herbs, pregnant individuals should consult a qualified practitioner before use.

Breastfeeding

No specific concerns have been documented regarding the use of Nuo Dao Gen during breastfeeding. Its sweet, neutral nature and mild therapeutic actions suggest a low risk profile. However, formal safety studies in breastfeeding mothers have not been conducted, so consultation with a qualified practitioner is advisable.

Children

No specific age restrictions are documented. As a sweet, neutral, non-toxic herb, it is generally considered suitable for children at reduced doses proportionate to age and body weight (typically one-third to one-half of the adult dose for children under 12). It may be helpful for childhood night sweats associated with Yin deficiency.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking pharmaceutical medications, be aware of these potential interactions with Nuo Dao Gen

No well-documented drug interactions have been reported for Nuo Dao Gen in the pharmacological literature. Its known chemical constituents (amino acids such as cystine and histidine, along with glucose, fructose, and kaempferol) are relatively mild and not associated with significant pharmacokinetic interactions.

As a theoretical caution, because the herb is used to stop sweating, individuals taking medications that affect thermoregulation (such as anticholinergics) should be aware of a possible additive effect on reducing perspiration.

Dietary Advice

Foods and dietary considerations when taking Nuo Dao Gen

When taking Nuo Dao Gen for sweating disorders and Yin deficiency, avoid spicy, hot, and drying foods (chilli, strong ginger, fried foods, alcohol) that can worsen Yin depletion and stimulate sweating. Favour foods that nourish Yin and fluids, such as pears, lily bulb, mung beans, tofu, and mild soups.

Botanical Description

Physical characteristics and morphology of the Nuo Dao Gen source plant

Glutinous rice (Oryza sativa L. var. glutinosa Matsum.) is an annual cultivated grass belonging to the Poaceae (grass) family. It grows upright in clumps, reaching about 1 metre tall, with hollow stems (culms), smooth leaf sheaths, and narrow linear leaves. The spikelets often carry a brownish-purple tint, and the leaves tend to be slightly paler in colour compared to ordinary rice varieties. The grains are plump and rounded, yielding white, opaque kernels that become notably sticky when cooked due to their high amylopectin starch content.

The medicinal part is the rhizome and fibrous roots (root mass), harvested after the glutinous rice crop is cut. The root mass forms an egg-shaped or semicircular clump. The short, conical rhizome is yellowish-brown, up to about 1 cm long and 3-6 mm in diameter, topped by a hollow stem base surrounded by leaf sheath remnants. Dense fibrous roots radiate outward, 10-15 cm long and about 1 mm thick, yellowish-brown to pale yellow with fine longitudinal wrinkles and occasional tiny rootlets. The roots are soft and pliable, with a yellowish-white cross-section. The herb has a faint odour and a mild, bland taste.

Sourcing & Harvesting

Where Nuo Dao Gen is sourced, when it's harvested or collected, and how to assess quality

Harvesting season

Summer and autumn, after the glutinous rice crop is harvested (in northern regions, typically autumn only).

Primary growing regions

Glutinous rice is cultivated throughout China, in both northern and southern regions wherever paddy rice agriculture is practised. There is no single famous dao di (terroir) region for this herb, as the roots are a byproduct of glutinous rice farming. Major rice-growing provinces in central and southern China, including Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Hunan, Hubei, Sichuan, Guangdong, and Guangxi, produce the largest quantities. Northern rice-growing areas also yield this herb, though typically only in autumn.

Quality indicators

Good quality Nuo Dao Gen consists of dry, intact root clumps with long, abundant fibrous roots. The rhizome should be short and yellowish-brown, and the fibrous roots 10-15 cm long, yellowish-brown to pale yellow on the outside, with a yellowish-white cross-section. The roots should be soft and pliable, not brittle. There should be minimal or no remnant stems or leaves attached. The herb has a very faint odour and a bland, slightly sweet taste. Avoid material that is dark, mouldy, or heavily mixed with stem and leaf debris.

Classical Texts

Key passages from the classical Chinese medical texts that describe Nuo Dao Gen and its therapeutic uses

《本草再新》(Ben Cao Zai Xin)

Original: 入肝、肺、肾三经。味甘，性平。

Translation: Enters the Liver, Lung, and Kidney channels. Sweet in flavour, neutral in nature.

Note: The Ben Cao Zai Xin (Qing Dynasty) is the earliest known text to formally record Nuo Dao Gen Xu as a medicinal herb and provide its channel entry and properties.

《中华本草》(Zhong Hua Ben Cao)

Original: 养阴除热，止汗。主阴虚发热，自汗盗汗，口渴咽干，肝炎，丝虫病。

Translation: Nourishes Yin and clears Heat, stops sweating. Indicated for Yin-deficiency fever, spontaneous sweating, night sweats, thirst with dry throat, hepatitis, and filariasis.

《四川中药志》(Si Chuan Zhong Yao Zhi, 1960)

Original: 配苡仁、白蔻、陈皮、谷芽，治胃弱食少；配黄芩、白术能安胎。

Translation: Combined with Yi Yi Ren (Coix seed), Bai Kou Ren (white cardamom), Chen Pi (tangerine peel), and Gu Ya (rice sprout), it treats weak Stomach with poor appetite. Combined with Huang Qin (Scutellaria) and Bai Zhu (Atractylodes), it can calm a restless fetus.

Historical Context

The history and evolution of Nuo Dao Gen's use in Chinese medicine over the centuries

Nuo Dao Gen (Glutinous Rice Root) is a relatively late addition to the Chinese materia medica. It does not appear in the ancient foundational texts such as the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing or Ben Cao Gang Mu. Its earliest recorded use as a formal medicinal substance is in the Qing Dynasty text Ben Cao Zai Xin (本草再新, "Renewed Materia Medica"), which classified its channel entries and therapeutic properties. This suggests it was part of folk medicine practice for some time before being formally documented.

The name "Nuo Dao Gen" simply means "glutinous rice root." "Nuo" (糯) refers to the sticky, glutinous variety of rice, "Dao" (稻) means rice or paddy, and "Gen" (根) means root. An alternate name, "Nuo Dao Gen Xu" (糯稻根须), adds "Xu" meaning fibrous roots or rootlets, specifying the fine root hairs used medicinally. As a humble byproduct of the rice harvest rather than a plant cultivated specifically for medicine, it reflects the resourcefulness of Chinese folk medicine in finding therapeutic value in everyday agricultural materials.

In mid-20th century China, Nuo Dao Gen attracted attention for its use in treating filariasis (a parasitic disease spread by mosquitoes). Clinical observations in the 1950s-60s reported promising results using high-dose decoctions of the root to clear microfilariae from the blood, making it one of the few plant-based treatments investigated for this tropical disease.