The efficacy and function of the leaves of the large-leaved hedge

The leaves of the broadleaf thorn tree are a famous traditional and commonly used Chinese medicinal material in my country with a long history of application. Today we will learn about the leaves of the broadleaf hedge.

[Source] Medicinal material source: Flacourtia rukam Zoll., a plant of the Flacourtaceae family. Leaves of Et Moritz.

[Original form] Large-leaved spiny hedge tree, 5-15m tall. Young branches are pubescent, with obvious lenticels. Leaves are alternate; petiole is 6-8mm long; leaf blade is oblong, oblong-lanceolate, 6-15cm long, 3-6cm wide, acuminate at apex, cuneate or nearly circular at base, coarsely serrated at margin, 5-12 pairs of lateral veins, obvious on the underside, and parallel veinlets. The racemes are axillary, 4-10mm long, covered with short soft hairs, with few flowers; the flowers are light yellow-green and without petals; the sepals are 4-5, about 1.5mm long, covered with soft hairs on both sides; the male flowers have about 25 stamens, inserted in the fleshy disk, which is 8-lobed; the female flower disk is fleshy, 8-lobed, the ovary is spherical, with incomplete 6 chambers, 2 ovules on each side of the membranous placenta, 6 styles, separate, the berry is spherical, 1-2cm in diameter, with a persistent style at the tip. Many seeds. The flowering period is May-June, and the fruiting period is August-November.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: Grown in sparse forests below 2000m above sea level.

【Functions and indications】 Clears away heat and detoxifies; kills insects and relieves itching. Mainly used for blepharitis; scabies; malignant sores and swelling; skin itching; trauma

[Usage and Dosage] For external use: appropriate amount, mash the fresh product into juice and apply to eyes; or grind into powder and sprinkle on eyes; or decoct in water and use for fumigation and washing.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

Although the leaves of the broadleaf hedge have many magical effects, they cannot be eaten casually. We need to use the medicine according to the user's own situation. I hope everyone will not take it indiscriminately to avoid unnecessary consequences.