FolkKB

Coix millet

Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen

Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen is a traditional plant used in Chinese medicine (TCM). Its specific uses are not well-documented, though it has been traditionally employed for various conditions without clear evidence of its efficacy. Scientific studies have shown that the seed exhibits multiple pharmacological effects, including hypoglycemia, liver function improvement, anti-tumor activity, intestinal microbiota regulation, spleen function enhancement, and anti-inflammation, as identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) linking it to serum uric acid levels. In a study examining modified Saengmaeksan for hypertensive patients over 12 weeks, the modified YGJT showed significant improvements in objective response rate, disease control rate, and Karnofsky Performance Status in lung cancer patients. Safety data indicates no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no reported drug interactions associated with its use.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • GWAS have identified several loci associated with serum uric acid levels, while TCM shows multi-component effects on uric acid homeostasis. D PMID
  • The study reviews that Coix seed exhibits multiple pharmacological effects including hypoglycemia, liver function improvement, anti-tumor activity, intestinal microbiota regulation, spleen function enhancement, and anti-inflammation. D PMID
  • The study aims to examine the efficacy and safety of modified Saengmaeksan in treating hypertensive patients over 12 weeks. B PMID
  • Modified YGJT significantly improved objective response rate, disease control rate, and Karnofsky Performance Status in lung cancer patients. A PMID
  • The study suggests that traditional Chinese medicine formulations may trigger ferroptosis in gastric cancer cells, but underlying mechanisms remain unclear. D PMID
  • Fermentation of adlay bran with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum enhanced its anti-melanogenic and antioxidant activities. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Coix millet?

Coix millet (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Coix millet?

6 sourced findings are recorded for Coix millet; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: GWAS have identified several loci associated with serum uric acid levels, while TCM shows multi-component effects on uric acid homeostasis.

How strong is the evidence for Coix millet?

The strongest finding for Coix millet carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Coix millet safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Coix millet in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Coix millet interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Coix millet in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Coix millet a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Research on Coix seed as a food and medicinal resource, it's chemical components and their pharmacological activities: A review. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Safety and effectiveness of an herbal decoction (modified Saengmaeksan) in hypertensive patients: Protocol for a real-world prospective observational study. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Therapeutic potential of modified Yukgunja-tang (Liujunzi Decoction, Rikkunshito) as an adjuvant treatment for lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Upcycling of Adlay Bran via Lactobacillus Fermentation Enhances Anti-Melanogenic and Antioxidant Activities through MITF/Tyrosinase Pathway Modulation. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Pharmacological intervention of Chinese medicine via regulating ferroptosis in gastric cancer. literature abstract metadata
  6. T2 Genome-wide association studies and traditional Chinese medicine in hyperuricemia: current evidence and mechanistic insights. literature abstract metadata

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