Which herb is noted to inhibit lactation when fried at a high dose?

• A. Mai Ya
• B. Mang Xiao
• C. Mu Tong
• D. Tong Cao

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is that how an herb is processed can change its actions. Mai Ya (malt) normally helps promote lactation by supporting digestion and moving qi to nourish the lactation system. But when Mai Ya is fried to a high degree, its drying and astringent qualities are amplified, which can suppress milk production. So, despite its lactation-promoting use in other preparations, high-dose fried Mai Ya is noted to inhibit lactation. The other herbs listed are not known for this specific processing-related effect on lactation: Mang Xiao is a strong purgative, Mu Tong and Tong Cao are more about diuresis and clearing heat, not lactation inhibition through frying.