The efficacy and function of pumpkin stem

Pumpkin stem is a traditional Chinese medicine. Do you know the medicinal value of it? How does traditional Chinese medicine use pumpkin stem to treat diseases? And what should you pay attention to when using pumpkin stem to treat diseases in daily life? Don't worry, we will answer them one by one for you.

[Source] It is the stem of the pumpkin of the Cucurbitaceae family. Pick mature pumpkins in autumn, cut off the stems and dry them in the sun.

[Habitat distribution] It is mainly produced in Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang and other places; it can also be found in other regions.

[Properties] The dried melon stem is a 5-6-angled disk with a diameter of 2.5-5.6 cm, with a remnant of the columnar fruit stalk attached. The surface is light yellow, slightly shiny, with sparse, thorny short hairs and small protruding dots. The fruit stalk is slightly curved, about 1 to 2 cm thick, with 5 to 6 raised ridges extending longitudinally to the end of the pedicel. It is hard, with a yellow-white cross section and often visible gaps. The best ones are those with large stems, yellow color and firmness.

【Functions and indications】 Treat carbuncles, furuncles and burns.

[Usage and Dosage] For oral administration: decoct in water, 1-2 liang; or simmer and grind into powder. For external use: grind into powder and apply on skin.

[Additional prescription] ① To treat carbuncle: several old pumpkin stems. Roast and grind into powder, mix with sesame oil and apply on the affected area. (Secrets of the Box Inspection)

[Clinical Application] It has a certain therapeutic effect on ascites of mild degree in late-stage schistosomiasis. According to the observation of 34 cases, after taking the medicine, 4 cases had a significant increase in urine volume, ascites gradually disappeared, and food intake more than doubled; 23 cases had a smaller abdomen, weight loss, increased appetite, and improved spirits, but the increase in urine volume was not significant, and ascites disappeared slowly; 8 cases were ineffective. Usage: Take the pumpkin stem with stalk (the stalk is about 1 inch long), place it on a tile and roast it until it is charred, grind it into powder and swallow it; about 0.5 grams each time, 3 times a day, for 2 to 3 weeks. Avoid salt intake while taking the medicine, and make sure to rest and supplement your nutrition.

【Excerpt】 《*Dictionary》

【Source】 From "Supplement to Compendium of Materia Medica"

The above is a detailed description of the effects and eating methods of pumpkin stems. Medicines like pumpkin stems are very effective in treating diseases. However, it should be noted that when using pumpkin stems, they need to be used in moderation and not too much, otherwise it will not be of any benefit to the body.