Botanical Overview
Amorphophallus konjac, commonly known as konjac, konnyaku, devil’s tongue, or voodoo lily, is a member of the Araceae family. Indigenous to East and Southeast Asia, especially China, Japan, and Korea, the plant’s underground corm or root is used medicinally and as a food source.
Energetics
Konjac is considered cooling and moistening in nature, with neutral to mildly bitter taste. Its action is generally descending and relaxing, especially promoting moistening of bodily fluids.
Primary Actions
- Digestive aid
- Bulking laxative
- Hypoglycemic
- Cholesterol-lowering
- Weight management
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- High blood sugar
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Digestive sluggishness
Syndromes
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hyperlipidemia
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
TCM
- Dryness
- Constipation
- Phlegm damp stagnation
Syndromes
- Damp heat
- Phlegm accumulation
Ayurveda
- Constipation
- Excess kapha
- Obesity
- Digestive issues
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Kapha imbalance
Unani
- Constipation
- Obesity
Syndromes
- Melancholia (Sauda imbalance)
- Excess phlegm (Balgham)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant’s primary active phytochemical is glucomannan, a soluble dietary fiber that promotes satiety, lowers blood cholesterol, and reduces blood glucose levels. Other components include flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolics contributing to antioxidant and other health effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powdered glucomannan 1-3 g per day
- Konjac flour capsules 1-4 g daily
- Food preparations such as konnyaku jelly and noodles
Safety & Contraindications
Konjac is generally safe but may cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed excessively. There is risk of choking from poorly hydrated konjac products; caution is advised for individuals with swallowing disorders or intestinal obstruction. Avoid use or consult healthcare provider during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data.
Astrological Correspondences
There are no well-established planetary or elemental rulers attributed to Amorphophallus konjac in classical herbal or esoteric literature.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future: Amorphophallus konjac
- Glucomannan and Its Hypoglycemic Effects: A Systematic Review
- Assessment report on glucomannan – EMA
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica – Dan Bensky
- Konjac: A versatile plant for food and health – FAO