The efficacy and function of Laoqianggu leaves

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 the medicinal herb Lao Qiang Gu Ye?

【Other name】 Amaranthus caudatus leaves

[Source] Medicinal material source: The leaves of Amaranthus caudatus, a plant of the Amaranthaceae family.

[Original morphology] Annual erect herb, 1.5-2.5m tall. The stem is stout, obtusely angular, single or slightly branched, green or often pink. Simple leaves are alternate; petiole is 2.5-15cm long, sparsely pubescent; leaf blade is rhombic-ovate or rhombic-lanceolate, 4-15cm long, 2-8cm wide, apex is short acuminate or obtuse, with small awn tip, base is broadly cuneate, slightly asymmetrical, margin is entire or wavy, glabrous on both sides, sparsely pubescent on veins. It blooms in summer and autumn. The panicle is terminal and drooping, composed of many or few spikes. The lateral spikes are 2.5-25cm long, and the terminal ones are several times longer. Inflorescence, male and female flowers are mixed in the same flower cluster. The sepals and bracteoles are membranous, red, and lanceolate. There are 5 sepals, which are oblong. The tepals are red, transparent, with 1 vein in the middle. The tepals of male flowers are oblong, with 5 stamens; the tepals of female flowers are oblong-lanceolate, with 3 styles. The capsule is nearly oval, red in the upper part, and cracked in the lid. The seeds are lenticular, light brownish yellow, with thick rings. The flowering period is July-August, and the fruiting period is September-October.

[Habitat distribution] It is cultivated in all parts of my country and also grows wild. Native to the tropics.

[Chemical composition] The leaves contain betaine.

[Pharmacological action] The oleophylline contained in the leaves has a hypotensive effect on anesthetized animals, an anti-fatty liver effect on experimental rats, and an anti-tumor effect in vitro. In addition, it also has anti-ulcer effects.

【Functions and indications】Detoxification and swelling reduction. Mainly used for furuncle, carbuncle, urticaria and itching

【Usage and Dosage】 For external use: appropriate amount, crush the fresh product and apply it.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

Through the introduction in the above article, I believe everyone has a certain understanding of Lao Qiang Gu Ye. I hope everyone can follow the doctor's advice when taking it, and at the same time pay attention to exercise and enhance their own resistance.