The efficacy and function of Phytolacca leaves

Modern medical research believes that Phytolacca leaves contain many nutrients that are beneficial to the human body. As a traditional Chinese medicinal material, its efficacy and functions have been widely recognized. Let's take a look at its specific situation.

[Source] Medicinal material source: The leaves of the plant Phytolacca japonica of the Phytolacca family.

[Original form] 1. Perennial herb, up to 1.5m tall. The whole plant is smooth and hairless. The roots are thick, conical, fleshy, with pale yellow outer skin, long and horizontal lenticels, and many lateral roots. The stem is green or purple-red and much branched. Simple leaves are alternate and petiolate; the base of the petiole is slightly flat and wide; the leaf blade is ovate-elliptic or elliptic, 12-15cm long, 5-8cm wide, with acute or acuminate apex, gradually narrowed base, and entire margin. The racemes grow at the tips of branches or laterally on the stems, and the inflorescences are erect; there are 5 tepals, which are white at first and then gradually turn to light red; there are 8-10 stamens; there are 8-10 carpels, which are separate but closely together. The berries are oblate, with persistent calyx, and are dark red-purple or black when ripe. Seeds kidney-shaped, black. Flowering and fruiting period is from May to October.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: 1. Grown under sparse woods beside the road, or cultivated in gardens.

[Chemical composition] Phytolacca leaves contain phytolaccagenin, acinospesigenin, sugars and amino acids.

【Functions and indications】 Clears away heat and detoxifies. Mainly used for carbuncle, swelling and sore

【Usage and Dosage】 For external use: apply appropriate amount, mash and apply; or grind into powder and sprinkle.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

Through the introduction in this article, we can learn some relevant knowledge about Phytolacca leaves. Whether from the perspective of food health or traditional Chinese medicine, the role of Smilax glabra leaves cannot be underestimated.