Single Herb Glossary
Guā Lóu (Shí) 瓜蔞實
Pharmaceutical name | Trichosanthis Fructus trichosanthes fruit |
Category | Transform Phlegm Heat |
Key Properties | Cools and Transforms Phlegm-Heat, Moistens the Intestines Directs Turbid Phlegm Downward |
Properties | Sweet Cold |
Tropism | LI, LU, ST |
Actions & Indications | 1) Clears Heat & Transforms Phlegm-Heat (thick Phlegm with cough) 2) Unbinds the Chest and Dissipates Nodules 3) Reduces Abscesses & Dissipates Nodules (LU/LI/Breast) |
Dosages | 9-21g |
Contraindications (TCM) | CI: SP/ST Def & Weakness |
Contraindications (Western) | |
Chemical Composition | Trichosanic acid, fatty oil, organic acids |
Pharmacological Effects | • Expectorant: trichosanic acid has demonstrated marked expectorant influence in animal studies • Antibiotic: water or alcohol extracts have inhibiting influence in vitro against E. coli, S. aureus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, α-hemolytic streptococcus, and Bacillus dysenteriae |
Herb-Drug Interactions | • Incompatible with Fu Zi, Wu Tou, and Cao Wu |
Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.