Single Herb Glossary
Sī Guā Luò 絲瓜絡
| Pharmaceutical name | Luffae Fructus Retinervus Luffa cylindrica sponge, loofah, luffa, dried skeleton of vegetable sponge “net of string melon” |
| Category | Dispel Wind-Dampness |
| Key Properties | Unblocks the collaterals Invigorates the blood Transforms phlegm |
| Properties | Sweet Neutral |
| Tropism | LU, ST, LV |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Resolves Toxicity & Reduces Swelling (abscess, sores, esp breast abscess, insufficient lactation) 2) Unblocks Channels/Luo while Dispelling Wind (Wind-Damp Bi) 3) Expels Phlegm (cough from Phlegm-Heat in LU) |
| Dosages | Pre-cook 30-60 min 6-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | This herb is also in the Clear Heat category (Bensky P. 167) |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Xylan, mannan, galactan |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Hepatoprotective: protective effect against liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats • Others: mild cardiotonic and diuretic effects |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| 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.