Traditional Chinese Raw Herbs Single Item: yì yǐ rén | Yiyiren | Yi Yi Ren | Job's tears | coix seeds (Brand Tongrentang)

薏苡仁 (yì yǐ rén), also known as Job's tears or coix seeds, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb and a popular food ingredient. Here are some key points about it:

- **Origin**: 薏苡仁 comes from the dried seeds of the Coix lacryma-jobi plant, which belongs to the grass family (Poaceae)¹.
- **Nutritional Value**: It is rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B1, B2, and iron².
- **Health Benefits**: 薏苡仁 is known for its ability to **promote diuresis**, **reduce swelling**, **strengthen the spleen**, and **alleviate arthritis**. It is often used to treat conditions like edema, diarrhea, and joint pain¹³.
- **Functions in Traditional Chinese Medicine**: It is commonly used to **drain dampness**, **clear heat**, and **detoxify the body**. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties²³.
- **Culinary Uses**: 薏苡仁 can be cooked and eaten as a grain, added to soups, or used in herbal teas. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in both savory and sweet dishes³.