Tian Men Dong vs Lentibularia vulgaris

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Tian Men Dong

Asparagus cochinchinensis

Respiratory

Utricularia vulgaris

Respiratory

Tian Men Dong

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Lentibularia vulgaris

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Asian asparagus species; root tubers used in TCM as yin tonic for kidney and lung — stronger yin effect than Mai Men Dong.

Aquatic carnivorous plant; used in traditional Asian folk medicine for respiratory conditions.

Active Compounds

asparagine, beta-sitosterol, steroidal saponins, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides

flavonoids, tannins, saponins, mucilage

Traditional Uses

Kidney and lung yin deficiency in TCM, Chronic dry coughs, Wasting conditions, Used in Gui Ban and other TCM yin tonics

cough, respiratory conditions, skin conditions

Modern Uses

Anti-inflammatory, Antitumor research, Yin-nourishing, Antioxidant

expectorant, anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

6–15 g dried root as decoction; 500 mg extract 2x daily

3-5g dried plant tea 2x/day

Contraindications

Cold-damp conditions, Diarrhea, Pregnancy in large doses

pregnancy

Side Effects

GI upset, Diarrhea

mild GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E