Loquat Leaf

The large leathery leaves of the Japanese medlar (Eriobotrya japonica), gathered all year round, those of autumn being preferred.

The underside of the leaves carries an abundant reddish-brown down which must traditionally be removed by brushing before use — its presence is held to be irritating to the throat.

Once brushed, the leaves are sometimes prepared with honey (Mi Zhi Pi Pa Ye), a preparation the tradition reads as more moistening.

A plant of the Asian garden, whose fruit — the Japanese medlar, or loquat — is also much appreciated.

The reference herb for carrying down the rebellious Qi of the Metal Phase and settling the breath disturbed by heat.

Traditionally used for constitutions where heat settles into the sphere of the breath with irritation and a dry disturbance of the breath, or to quiet the upward surges of Qi from the median sphere (surges of Qi through heat).

• Decoction: 5 to 10 g, to be brushed and wrapped in a muslin bag (Bao Jian), as the hairs on the underside irritate the throat
• Honey-prepared form (Mi Zhi Pi Pa Ye): the traditional version, which makes the moistening turn more pronounced and softens the Cool nature
• Pi Pa Gao: the traditional Cantonese syrup made from Pi Pa Ye leaves and honey

To be avoided in cases of deficient Yang with deep cold and cold, disturbed breath (its cool nature can add to the imbalance).

Always brush the leaves or use a sachet, to avoid irritation from the hairs.