The efficacy and function of pine leaves

Pine needles have attracted our attention in our lives because of their extremely high medicinal value. Now let's take a closer look at what pine leaves are.

[Other names] Bristle pine leaves (Shenghuifang), pine hairs (Jianbiandanfang), mountain pine whiskers (Shengcao Xingbeiyao), pine needles (Guangzhou Army's Handbook of Commonly Used Chinese Herbal Medicines).

[Source] The leaves of Pinus tabulaeformis, Pinus massoniana, Pinus yunnanensis and other plants of the Pinaceae family. It can be harvested throughout the year, but the best time is in December. After harvesting, dry it in the sun and place it in a dry place.

[Properties] Dry pine leaves are needle-shaped, about 12 to 18 cm long and 0.1 cm thick. Two leaves are bundled together and covered with a leaf sheath about 0.5 cm long and dark brown in color. There is a long and fine groove in the center, the surface is smooth, gray-dark green, light and crisp, with a slight odor.

[Chemical composition] Masson pine leaves contain volatile oils (α-pinene, β-pinene, camphene, etc.), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, etc.), and resins.

【Nature and flavor】 ① "Bielu": "bitter, warm."

【Meridian】 "Bencao Zaixin": "enters the heart and spleen meridians."

【Functions and indications】 Dispel wind and dampness, kill insects and relieve itching. Treat rheumatism, paralysis, injuries from falls, insomnia, edema, eczema, and scabies. It can also prevent and treat meningitis, influenza, and hookworm disease.

[Usage and Dosage] For internal use: decocted in water, 3-5 qian (1-2 liang of fresh leaves); or soaked in wine. For external use: decoct in water and wash.

[Additional prescription] ① Treat weak feet due to twelve wind diseases, numbness and inability to walk: 60 jin of pine needles, chop them into small pieces, add 4 shi of water, boil until 4 dou and 9 liters are left, then brew 5 dou of rice as usual; separately boil the pine needle juice to soak the rice and add it to the rice, seal the brew with mud, and let it ferment in 7 days. Drink it clear to get drunk. (Mine Leaf Wine from Qianjin Fang)

【Explanations by various scholars】 "Compendium of Materia Medica": "Pine hair is a medicine for removing rheumatism, treating tinea, leprosy and malignant ulcers. It is dry in nature and has a beneficial effect. When fried until black, it is good for removing rheumatism, stubborn tinea, wet rot and can be applied to frostbite in winter. Take it raw, mash it and make it into pills. It can treat severe leprosy, rheumatism, joint pain, beriberi, paralysis, headache and other symptoms. The above diseases are suitable for patients with rheumatism, but it is forbidden for patients with blood deficiency and wind dryness."

【Clinical application】 ①Prevent colds

【Excerpt】 《*Dictionary》

[Source] From "Bencao Jing Jizhu".

The above is a detailed introduction to the effects and functions of pine needles. When choosing it, pay attention to the dosage to avoid causing harm to your body.