The efficacy and function of Elsholtzia calyx

Only when we understand the main ingredients of any medicinal material can we better exert its efficacy and function. Here I recommend a very popular Chinese medicinal material, Elsholtzia calyx.

[Other names] Elsholtzia ciliata (Handbook of Chinese Herbal Medicines in Xinjiang), Elsholtzia scabra (Commonly Used Chinese Herbal Medicines in Tibet).

[Source] It is the whole herb of Typha calyx, a plant of the Lamiaceae family. Harvest when the flowers first bloom in summer and autumn and dry in the shade.

[Original form] Annual herb, 10 to 50 cm tall, the whole plant has fragrance. The stem is erect or inclined, quadrangular, and pubescent. Leaves are opposite; petiolate; leaf blades are ovate, elliptic to lanceolate, pointed or obtuse at the apex, serrated at the margin, gradually narrowed at the base, covered with short soft hairs on both sides, with yellow-brown oil spots on the underside. The spike inflorescence is terminal and cylindrical; the flowers are small and lavender; the bracts are elliptical; the calyx is bell-shaped, 5-lobed, and pubescent; the corolla is 4-lobed and pubescent; there are 4 stamens, 2 of which are prominent. The nutlets are oblong and about 2 mm long. Flowering period is from July to October.

[Habitat distribution] It grows in relatively humid places such as mountain valleys, field edges, and stream sides. Distributed in Xinjiang, Shaanxi, Gansu, Tibet and other places.

[Properties and flavors] "Xinjiang Chinese Herbal Medicine Handbook": "Spicy, slightly warm, non-toxic."

【Functions and indications】 ① "Xinjiang Chinese Herbal Medicine Handbook": "Induces sweating, relieves heat, promotes diuresis, and promotes water circulation. Treats heatstroke, colds, and nephritis."

[Usage and Dosage] For oral use: decoct in water, 2 to 3 qian. For external use: grind into powder and apply on the affected area or decoct in water for washing.

[Additional prescription] ① For treating heatstroke and cold (fever, heavy head, chest tightness, weakness in limbs, diarrhea): 3 grams of Elsholtzia ciliata, 3 grams of Magnolia officinalis, and 5 grams of White Labain. Decoction in water. (Handbook of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Xinjiang)

【Excerpt】 《*Dictionary》

Through the detailed introduction to the effects of Elsholtzia calyx in this article, we can understand the several major effects of Elsholtzia calyx. These effects are indeed a good way to regulate the body for people with poor physical constitution and low resistance. Everyone can try it.