Botanical Overview
Cydonia oblonga (semen), commonly known as Quince seed, belongs to the Rosaceae family. The seeds are primarily used medicinally. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and Western Asia.
Energetics
The seeds exhibit a cooling temperature with moistening qualities. The taste profile is bitter, sweet, and mucilaginous, with an inward directionality and relaxing tonicity. It primarily influences body fluids.
Primary Actions
- Demulcent
- Emollient
- Anti-inflammatory
- Mucilaginous
Indications
Western
- Dry cough
- Throat irritation
- Constipation
- Skin inflammation
- Itchy skin
Syndromes
- Mucosal dryness
- Constipation due to dryness
- Mild inflammatory conditions of skin and mucosa
TCM
No well-established traditional indications identified.
Ayurveda
No well-established traditional indications identified.
Unani
No well-established traditional indications identified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The seed contains mucilage, pectins, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids contributing to its demulcent and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction or infusion of seeds 2-5 g, 1-3 times daily
- Seed mucilage applied topically for skin conditions as needed
Safety & Contraindications
Quince seed mucilage is generally safe at medicinal doses. Raw seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides that may release cyanide, so ingestion of large quantities of raw seeds is not advised. Use with caution during pregnancy due to limited safety data. No significant drug interactions reported.
Astrological Correspondences
No established planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future Database – Cydonia oblonga – Quince
- European Medicines Agency – HMPC Assessment Report: Cydonia oblonga seed (Quince) mucilage
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. – Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Cydonia oblonga