The efficacy and function of Ficus microcarpa leaves

Ficus microcarpa leaves are a traditional Chinese medicine. In addition to the effects we know in daily life, Ficus microcarpa leaves actually have many other effects and functions. Let’s take a look at them right away.

【Alias】 Half-edge knife

[Source] Medicinal material source: The leaves of Ficus microcarpa of the Moraceae family.

【Original form】 Tree, 5-20m high. The whole plant has latex. Simple leaves are alternate; petioles are thick and short, 6-15mm long; stipules are ovate-lanceolate, slightly curved, about 7mm long; leaf blades are leathery, with great variation, usually asymmetrical on both sides, oblique rhomboid-elliptic, oblong or obovate-elliptic, 4-17cm long, 3-6cm wide, with acute or short acuminate apex, cuneate or obtuse base, slightly wider on one side, entire margin or with wavy angles above the middle; leaf dorsal surface is slightly rough, with tiny tubercle-like protrusions, 3 basal veins, 5-7 pairs of lateral veins, and reticulate veins slightly obvious on the dorsal surface. Inflorescence is cryptic, with the inflorescence receptacle solitary or in pairs axillary, oblate or globose-pear-shaped, 5-8mm in diameter, yellow when mature, with an umbilical protrusion on the top, narrowed into a stalk at the lower end, 5-10mm long, slightly pubescent; with a few bracts at the base; male and gall flowers are borne on the inner wall of the same inflorescence receptacle, male flowers are borne near the mouth, with 4-6 tepals; 1 stamen, short filaments, with degenerate pistils; the tepals of gall flowers are similar to those of male flowers, with a nearly spherical ovary and lateral styles; female flowers are borne in the inflorescence receptacle of another plant, with 4 tepals, ovary obliquely ovate, slightly with nipple-like protrusions, and lateral styles. Achene. Flowering and fruiting period throughout the year.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: distributed in mountain forests, open areas, and beside water.

【Nature and flavor】 Bitter; astringent; neutral

【Functions and indications】Expel phlegm and relieve cough; promote blood circulation and dredge meridians. Mainly used for cough, rheumatic pain, and traumatic injury

[Usage and Dosage] For oral use: decoction, 30-60g. For external use: take appropriate amount and mash it for application.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

This is all we have to say about the effects of Ficus microcarpa leaves. I hope it will be helpful to you. Although the leaves of Banyan tree are very valuable, we must be cautious when eating them.