Yi Yi Ren / Job’s Tears Seeds 薏苡仁

Description

Scientific Name: Coix lacryma-jobi

Alternative Names: Job’s tears, adlay, Chinese pearl barley

Part Used: seeds

Traditional Uses: 

When consumed in large amounts, Yi Yi ren is a mild diuretic, therefore may help patients with dysuria, edema, and diarrhea. However, this quality makes it unsuitable for those who suffer from constipation, and in this case only small amounts should be taken. Chinese herbalists also use it to provide mild relief for digestive infections.

Throughout East Asia, many people eat Yi Yi Ren as a cereal. They often cook it into gruels, soups, and beverages.