The efficacy and function of stone crab

There are so many medicinal herbs in the world, and it is inevitable that there are some that we are not familiar with. But as long as we have the spirit of learning throughout our lives, I believe we can slowly learn more medical herbs. So do you know about stone crab as a medicinal herb?

[Source] Medicinal material source: The rhizome of the Urticaceae plant Stylosa heterophylla.

[Original form] Small herb, 5-20cm high. The lower part of the stem is sparsely pubescent. The leaves are nearly circular or elliptic, 3-10mm long, entire, with stalactites only on the edges, and the reduced leaves are smaller, 2-4mm long; the leaves above the middle of the stem gradually become larger, normal leaves are obliquely cuneate, obliquely elliptic or obliquely lanceolate, 0.8-4cm long, 0.4-1.2cm wide, with slightly pointed to acuminate tips, obliquely cuneate bases, sparsely toothed edges above the middle, sparse stalactites, 0.3-0.7mm long; three-veined. Dioecious; male inflorescence nearly sessile, about 2mm in diameter, with 3-10 flowers; inflorescence receptacle is extremely small, with about 2 ovate bracts, bracteoles nearly linear, 1-2mm long; male flower has 4 tepals. The diameter of the female inflorescence is 2-5mm; the inflorescence receptacle is small or obviously disc-shaped, with a few bracts on the edge and many flowers in the center. Achenes are fusiform, about 0.9 mm long, with about 6 longitudinal ribs. Flowering and fruiting period is summer and autumn.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: Growing in mountain forests, ditches, and rocks at an altitude of 2000-3000m, sometimes epiphytic on tree trunks.

【Nature and flavor】 slightly bitter; pungent; neutral

【Functions and indications】 Clears away heat and detoxifies; disperses blood stasis and reduces swelling; dispels wind and dampness. It is used to treat dysentery, swollen ulcer, bruises and swelling, rheumatic pain.

[Usage and Dosage] For oral use: decocted in water, 9-15g; or soaked in wine. For external use: take appropriate amount and mash fresh product for application.

[Discussions by various scholars] "Xinhua Compendium of Materia Medica" Rhizome: slightly bitter in taste, neutral in nature. It has the functions of clearing away heat and dampness, reducing swelling and detoxifying. It is used to treat rheumatic pain, dysentery, bruises, sprains, and unknown swellings.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

Through the introduction in the above article, I believe everyone has a certain understanding of stone crabs. Stone crabs are very good for human health, so you can give it a try.