Soybean (Glycine max)

Soybean (Glycine max) is a member of the Fabaceae family, native to Eastern North America, Asia, and Europe. Traditionally, its seeds, leaves, and shoots have been used for decoctions, infusions, and culinary uses.

This herb is particularly valued for its tonic, diuretic, and sedative actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and japanese kampo medicine.

Soybean (Glycine max) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Soybean (Glycine max) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Soybean
Scientific Name	Glycine max
Plant Family	Fabaceae
Genus	Glycine
Species	max
Native Range	Eastern North America, Asia, Europe
Plant Parts Used	Seeds, Leaves, Shoots
Primary Medicinal Actions	Tonic, Diuretic, Sedative
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Kampo Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Culinary Use

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Glycine max
Common Name: Soybean
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Glycine, Bean, Yellow Bean
Plant Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Glycine

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Annual herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.
Leaves: Simple leaves with pinnately compound structure, upper surface glabrous and green, lower surface pale green with distinct stomatal bands.
Flowers: Small yellow flowers arranged in pairs along inflorescences, actinomorphic, with five white petals and five yellow sepals, each flower having a single pistil and ten stamens arranged in two whorls.
Stems: Erect, unbranched, glabrous, cylindrical, with nodes and stipules.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Japanese Kampo Medicine
Korean Traditional Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Culinary Use
Powder

Medicinal Actions

Tonic: Traditionally described as a gentle tonic, in whole-system applications.
Diuretic: As described in traditional systems, a mild diuretic, in fluid-regulation contexts.
Sedative: In herbal literature, noted as a soothing sedative, for relaxation-oriented uses.
Anti-inflammatory: Commonly referenced as a calming anti-inflammatory, in inflammation-focused discussions.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Saponin: A group of glycosidic compounds commonly found in roots, leaves, and seeds.
Phenolic Acid: Simple phenolic molecules widely distributed across plant tissues.
Glycoside: Plant-produced compounds commonly stored in inactive glycosylated forms.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications: Contraindications for this herb are not clearly established in available sources.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: The potential for interactions with prescription medications has not been extensively studied.
Toxicity: The toxicity profile of this herb has not been clearly established.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Dried or fresh plant parts are infused in hot water and consumed as a beverage.
Decoction: This method uses sustained heat to extract compounds from firm plant structures.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Culinary Use: Plant material is incorporated into food or beverages for flavor or aroma.
Powder: A preparation created by pulverizing dried plant material.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in nutrient-rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.