Single Herb Glossary
Guā Lóu Rén 瓜蔞仁
| Pharmaceutical name | Trichosanthis Semen trichosanthes seed |
| Category | Transform Phlegm Heat |
| Key Properties | Slippery Moistens both Lungs and Intestines Cools and Transforms Phlegm |
| Properties | Sweet Cold |
| Tropism | LU, ST, LI |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Clears and Transforms Phlegm-Heat 2) Expands the Chest 3) Moistens the Intestines 4) Promotes Healing of Sores |
| Dosages | 9-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Weak, deficient Spleen & either nausea or loose stools |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Trichosanic acid, karounidiol, 7 -oxodihydrokarounidiol, bryonolic acid, fatty oil, organic acids |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Laxative: various parts of this plant have laxative actions, with Gua Lou Ren being the strongest and Gua Lou Pi (Pericarpium Trichosanthis) being the weakest |
| 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.