Polygala Root

원지 (遠志) · Polygala tenuifolia Willd.

Mind-calming herb Warm Bitter Heart, Kidney, Lung

NatureWarm

TasteBitter

MeridiansHeart, Kidney, Lung

Part usedRoot

FamilyPolygalaceae

CategoryMind-calming herb

Find by concern: Anxiety Palpitations

Overview

Polygala root carries a name that means 'far-reaching ambition,' reflecting the Donguibogam's description of it as an herb that sharpens the mind, steadies the will, and keeps a person from confusion. Its root and its leaf were traditionally recorded as having distinct but related actions.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性溫, 味苦, 無毒. 益智慧, 令耳目聰明, 不忘, 强志, 定心氣, 止驚悸, 療健忘, 安魂魄, 令人不迷惑.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationIts nature is warm, its taste bitter, and it is non-toxic. It boosts wisdom, sharpens the ears and eyes, prevents forgetting, strengthens resolve, settles the heart qi, stops palpitations and fright, treats forgetfulness, calms the spirit and soul, and keeps a person from confusion.

Traditional functions

Calms the heart and spirit
Stops palpitations and fright
Sharpens memory and focus
Resolves phlegm from the heart orifices

Traditional applications

Anxiety and restlessness
Palpitations from fright
Forgetfulness and poor focus
Restless sleep with vivid dreaming

Traditional preparation

Decoction 3–6g, processed with licorice water; often paired with poria and ginseng for calming formulas.

Cautions

Caution: Can irritate the stomach and throat in its raw form; traditionally processed with licorice water before use. Not recommended for those with peptic ulcers or excess stomach acid. Consult a professional.

Frequently asked questions

What does the name 'polygala' (yuanzhi/wonji) mean?

The Korean and Chinese name literally means 'far-reaching will' — the Donguibogam credits it with strengthening resolve and clarity of mind, which classical scholars linked to the ambition needed for long-term goals.

Is the leaf used differently from the root?

Yes. The Donguibogam records the leaf separately, under the name 'small grass,' noting it chiefly boosts essence and stops involuntary seminal loss from deficiency — a distinct, narrower use from the root's mind-calming role.

Sources

동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술 (LEGAL-001)

DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.