The difference between Asparagus and Ophiopogon japonicus

Many people have seen Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus. However, many people in life cannot distinguish between Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus, not only because their names are similar, but also because their appearances are similar. However, there are obvious differences between Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus. They are two different items. We should also pay attention to the difference between the two in application, so as to better solve the problem. So what is the difference between Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus?

1. Different appearance

Asparagus is a climbing plant. Its leaves are shaped like pine needles and are very shiny. Usually three leaves form a cluster. There are also short thorns on its branches, which are very obvious. The berries of Asparagus cochinchinensis are also red when ripe, while the fruits of Ophiopogon japonicus are dark green or black-blue when ripe. So just from the appearance we can clearly see the difference between Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus.

2. Differences in efficacy and function

In terms of efficacy and effects, the bitter and cold nature of Asparagus cochinchinensis is more intense, so its effects of clearing heat and clearing fire are more significant, and it also has a good effect in reducing swelling. It is very effective in treating some diseases such as lobular hyperplasia and some breast lumps. The latter Ophiopogon japonicus is only slightly bitter and cold in nature, so its refreshing and calming effect will be better. Generally, if insomnia is more serious, we can use Ophiopogon japonicus to treat it. This is an obvious difference between Asparagus cochinchinensis and Ophiopogon japonicus.

Let's take a look at the difference between Asparagus and Ophiopogon japonicus

3. Others

Asparagus is cold in nature, sweet and slightly bitter in taste. It has the effects of nourishing yin, clearing away heat, moistening the lungs and nourishing the kidneys. It is used to treat yin deficiency fever, lung abscess, diabetes and other diseases. Asparagus contains asparagine, B-sterol, steroidal saponins, mucus, furfural derivatives and other ingredients. Asparagus has the effect of increasing blood cells, enhancing the phagocytic function of the reticuloendothelial system and prolonging the existence time of antibodies. It can make the skin beautiful and keep it youthful. But it is not suitable for cold diseases and diarrhea. Ophiopogon japonicus tastes sweet, slightly bitter and slightly cold. It has the effects of promoting fluid production and quenching thirst, moistening the lungs and relieving cough. Ophiopogon japonicus can also promote the recovery of pancreatic cell function, increase liver glycogen and lower blood sugar. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that Ophiopogon japonicus belongs to the stomach, lung, and heart meridians, and has the effects of nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, benefiting the stomach and producing body fluids, clearing the heart and relieving restlessness. Generally, Ophiopogon japonicus is used as an auxiliary treatment for symptoms such as dry cough due to lung dryness, tuberculosis due to yin deficiency, and sore throat due to throat congestion.