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) |
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang (Minor Decoction Stuck in Chest) 小陷胸湯 Bei Mu Gua Lou San (Frittilaria & Trichosanthes Fruit Powder) 貝母瓜蔞散 Gua Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang (Trichosanthes Fruit, Chinese Garlic, & Wine Decoction) 瓜蒌薤白白酒汤 |
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.