Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi) is a tea & infusion ingredient known for supports digestive health through high carbohydrate and fiber content. Acts as a natural diuretic, helping reduce water retention and swelling. Native to Native to Southeast Asia—particularly China, India, and the Philip
CategoryTea & Infusion
GroupOther
Evidence LevelModerate
Synergy Pairings5
Health Benefits
Supports digestive health through high carbohydrate and fiber content
Acts as a natural diuretic, helping reduce water retention and swelling
Provides anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for joint health and gut comfort
Hydrates and soothes skin when applied topically in cosmetic formulations
Aids in satiety and metabolic balance, supporting healthy weight management
Additionally, the nutritional profile of Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi) includes - complex carbohydrates: serve as a clean energy source and promote digestive comfort. For enhanced efficacy, Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi) can be combined with complementary ingredients. Hermetica Synergy Stack (Formulation Heuristic)
Origin & History
Native to Southeast Asia—particularly China, India, and the Philippines—Job's Tears is a tall, grass-like plant cultivated for its tear-shaped seeds. The starch extracted from these seeds is a traditional staple in Asian cuisine and medicine, revered for its versatility in food, cosmetics, and wellness applications.
“Job’s Tears starch has long been a staple in East Asian herbal medicine and culinary tradition. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is regarded as a cooling food that harmonizes digestion, clears dampness, and supports detoxification. It remains revered as both nourishment and medicine, bridging ancestral practices and modern wellness trends.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Scientific studies confirm Job’s Tears’ anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antioxidant properties. Its starch exhibits excellent physicochemical qualities for food and cosmetic formulations, and research supports its use in gastrointestinal and metabolic health. See PMC7117570; ScienceDirect: S2210803315300450; PubMed: 15548119.
Preparation & Dosage
Skincare
Added to face masks, powders, and creams to moisturize and calm the skin.
Decoction
Consumed in traditional medicine to relieve inflammation and promote urination.
Powder
Mixed with herbal teas or food as a mild cooling and nutritive agent.
Nutritional Profile
- Complex carbohydrates: Serve as a clean energy source and promote digestive comfort.
- Dietary fiber: Supports bowel regularity and microbiome balance.
- Magnesium, potassium, calcium: Enhance cardiovascular, muscular, and bone health.
- Phytochemicals (e.g., coixenolide, ferulic acid): Offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
- Small amounts of protein: Contribute to tissue repair and immune support.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Functional whole-food/ingredient
Gut & Microbiome | Energy & Metabolism
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi)?
Supports digestive health through high carbohydrate and fiber content. Acts as a natural diuretic, helping reduce water retention and swelling. Provides anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for joint health and gut comfort. Hydrates and soothes skin when applied topically in cosmetic formulations.
How do you use Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi)?
Recommended Dosage: Fresh: Consume 1-2 servings (about 150g) daily as part of a balanced diet. Powder: Mix 1-2 teaspoons (3-6g) into smoothies, yogurt, or beverages. Dried: 30-50g daily as a nutrient-dense snack. Traditional Use & Preparation: - Culinary: Used as a gluten-free thickener in soups, stews, sauces, and desserts. Skincare: Added to face masks, powders, and creams to moisturize and calm the skin.
What does scientific research say about Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi)?
Scientific studies confirm Job’s Tears’ anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antioxidant properties. Its starch exhibits excellent physicochemical qualities for food and cosmetic formulations, and research supports its use in gastrointestinal and metabolic health. See PMC7117570; ScienceDirect: S2210803315300450; PubMed: 15548119.
What ingredients pair well with Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi)?
Hermetica Synergy Stack (Formulation Heuristic) Role: Functional whole-food/ingredient Intention: Gut & Microbiome | Energy & Metabolism Primary Pairings: Turmeric (Curcuma longa); Ginger (Zingiber officinale); Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid); Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Notes (from original entry): Mung Bean, Lotus Seed, Rice Bran
Where does Job's Tears Starch (Coix lacryma-jobi) come from?
Native to Southeast Asia—particularly China, India, and the Philippines—Job's Tears is a tall, grass-like plant cultivated for its tear-shaped seeds. The starch extracted from these seeds is a traditional staple in Asian cuisine and medicine, revered for its versatility in food, cosmetics, and wellness applications.
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