The efficacy and function of chestnut parasite

Chestnut parasite is a very common Chinese medicinal material in daily life. It has high medicinal and nutritional value to the human body, and it is not too difficult to purchase. Let’s analyze several aspects of chestnut parasites.

[Other names] Echinops parasite, crab legs, spider plant, dragon's beard, square leaves, camphor parasite, tea oil parasite, plum parasite, three-leaf parasite

[Source] Medicinal material source: The branches and leaves of Castanea parasiticus, a plant of the Mosquito family.

[Original form] Subshrub, 5-15cm high. The twigs are flat, usually opposite, with narrow obovate to obovate-lanceolate internodes, 7-17mm long and 3-6mm wide, with a distinct midrib after drying. The leaves are reduced to scales and are fused in pairs in a ring shape. The flowers are light green with articulated hairs around the base; the male flower buds are nearly spherical, about 0.5mm long, with short pedicels, 3 triangular tepals, and the polygamous stamens are oblate; the female flower buds are elliptical, about 0.5mm long, with 3 broad triangular tepals, and a small nipple-shaped stigma. The berries are oval or pear-shaped, 2-3.5 mm long, about 1.5 mm in diameter, and light yellow. Flowering and fruiting period almost all year round.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: Grown in mountain evergreen broad-leaved forests at an altitude of 150-1700 (-2500) m, parasitic on plants of the Fagaceae family, such as Quercus, Carle, or theaceae, Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, Achyranthesaceae, and Oleaceae.

【Nature and flavor】 Bitter; sweet; slightly warm

【Meridian】 Liver; Kidney

【Functions and indications】Relieve rheumatism; nourish the liver and kidneys; promote qi and blood circulation; relieve pain. Mainly used for rheumatic pain; limb numbness; waist and knee pain; dizziness; traumatic injury

[Usage and Dosage] For oral use: decocted in water, 9-15g.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

Through the above introduction, everyone has a good understanding of the Chinese medicine chestnut parasite. It has a very good effect in treating diseases. However, it should be noted that when using chestnut parasite, some methods and techniques should be mastered to consume it in a healthy and scientific manner.