Botanical Overview
Coix lacryma-jobi, commonly known as Adlay or Job’s tears, is a plant in the Poaceae family. The seed (semen) is used medicinally across East and Southeast Asia and parts of India. It is also called Chinese pearl barley or Coix seed.
Energetics
This seed is traditionally considered cooling and moistening in nature. It has a sweet and bland taste, with tonifying effects primarily on qi.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
- Detoxicant
- Antineoplastic
Indications
Western
- Edema
- Inflammation
- Cough
- Arthritis
- Skin eruptions
- Dampness-related conditions
Syndromes
- Inflammatory disorders
- Fluid retention
- Rheumatism
- Urinary difficulty
TCM
- Edema
- Urinary difficulty
- Dampness accumulation
- Joint pain
- Skin damp lesions
- Cough with phlegm
Syndromes
- Spleen and lung damp-heat
- Dampness obstruction syndrome
- Wind-damp bi syndrome
Ayurveda
- Edema
- Skin disorders
- Chronic cough
Syndromes
- Kapha-related maladies
- Dosha imbalance with dampness
Unani
- Inflammation
- Urinary troubles
- Arthritis
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains bioactive compounds like coixenolide, coixol, polysaccharides, fatty acids, proteins, and phenolic compounds which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and possible antineoplastic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 9-15 g 2-3 times daily
- Powder 3-6 g 2 times daily
- Tea or infusion as traditionally prepared
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe with traditional use. Large doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited safety data. No significant toxicity reported.
Astrological Correspondences
No clear planetary or elemental rulers established.
Selected References
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica
- Coix lacryma-jobi Seed (Plants For A Future monograph)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Coix lachryma-jobi (Job’s tears): A review
- Ayurvedic Plants of India