Shen Qu vs Mai Ya Digestive

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Shen Qu

Massa Medicata Fermentata

Digestive

Hordeum vulgare (germinated)

Digestive

Shen Qu

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Mai Ya Digestive

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

TCM fermented preparation of wheat flour, herbs, and beans for food stagnation.

TCM sprouted barley that reduces food stagnation and stops lactation.

Active Compounds

Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Vitamins B

Amylase, Maltose, Diastase, B vitamins, Hordenine

Traditional Uses

Food stagnation, Poor digestion, Diarrhea, Loss of appetite

Food stagnation, Breast distension, Weaning, Poor appetite

Modern Uses

Digestive enzyme research, Probiotic studies

Digestive enzyme, Galactofuge (stops lactation), Appetite stimulant

Adult Dosage

6-15g in decoction daily

10-15g dry-fried in decoction daily

Contraindications

Gluten sensitivity, Celiac disease

Nursing mothers who wish to continue breastfeeding

Side Effects

Very safe - mild bloating possible

Reduced milk supply, GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E