Plagiopus oederi (Brid.) Limpr.
Aliases：Hán Dì Píng Zhū Xiǎn (literally "Cold‑Ground Flat Pearl Moss") and Tài Yáng Zhēn (literally "Sun Needle") — recorded in Shaanxi Zhongcaoyao (Shaanxi Chinese Herbal Medicine). (These are alternative names for Tàiyángzhēn, i.e., the plant body of Plagiopus oederi / Sun Needle Moss.)
Tàiyángzhēn (Sun Needle) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the plant body (whole herb) of Plagiopus oederi (Brid.) Limpr., a moss belonging to the family Bartramiaceae. It is named "Sun Needle" because its capsule turns orange-red and stands erect like a needle when mature, and it often grows on sunlit rock walls. It is recorded in Shaanxi Zhongcaoyao (Shaanxi Chinese Herbal Medicine).
Efficacy & Actions
Calms the mind and relieves convulsions.
Indications
Palpitations, insomnia, epilepsy, and aphasia due to stroke. It is also used for restlessness and anxiety.
Modern Pharmacology
Its traditional effects are primarily centered around calming the mind and tranquilizing the spirit, and it is often used clinically for conditions associated with restlessness of the mind.
Ingredients
For oral administration: decoct in water, 3–9 g; it is also recorded as 2–3 qian (approximately 6–9 g).
Usage & Dosage
For treating restlessness and anxiety: Use 3–6 g each of Tàiyángzhēn (Plagiopus oederi) and Shíjiāngdòu. Use white sugar as a guiding agent. Decoct in water and take orally. (From Shaanxi Zhongcaoyao — Shaanxi Chinese Herbal Medicine) For treating epilepsy: Use 9 g of Píngzhūxiǎn (Plagiopus oederi) and 6 g of Jiāngcán (Bombyx batryticatus). Decoct and take orally. (From Zhongguo Yaoyong Baoxi Zhiwu — Chinese Medicinal Spore Plants)
Medicinal Parts
It is the plant body (whole herb) of Plagiopus oederi (Brid.) Limpr., a moss belonging to the family Bartramiaceae.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and insects.
