Black Bean Skin Pieces (Dolichos Lablab)

Black Bean Skin Pieces (Dolichos lablab) are the dried outer skins of black lablab beans, a traditional ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine valued for its detoxifying, damp-transforming, and exterior-releasing properties. Known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Hei Dou Yi, these lightweight husks are considered gentle yet effective in helping the body vent rashes, support detoxification, harmonize the middle burner, and promote the resolution of exterior pathogens, especially during the early stages of illness or when heat-toxin affects the skin.

In TCM, Black Bean Skin is described as sweet, neutral, and mildly dispersing, entering the Liver and Stomach channels. It has long been used to promote urination, reduce swelling, assist in resolving drug or food poisoning, and harmonize the effects of stronger herbs. It is also traditionally decocted to help release the exterior, making it supportive in conditions with mild fever, restlessness, or the early onset of rashes. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for formulas intended to soothe irritability, cool mild heat, and clear superficial toxins.

In folk herbal practice, Black Bean Skin teas are commonly prepared to reduce swelling in the limbs, harmonize digestion during seasonal transitions, and cool mild inflammatory skin conditions. The skins have been used for centuries as part of detoxifying soups, especially for individuals recovering from overwork, environmental heat, or dietary excess.

Modern research shows that Dolichos lablab skins contain anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, compounds known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects. These constituents support the herb’s traditional use for detoxification, fluid regulation, skin comfort, and mild heat-clearing actions.

Each batch of Black Bean Skin Pieces (Dolichos lablab) is carefully separated, washed, and dried to preserve its natural dark color, light texture, and cooling, detoxifying properties. When decocted, it produces a soft, slightly sweet, subtly earthy infusion used to reduce swelling, clear mild toxins, harmonize digestion, and gently release the exterior.