Properties: Sweet, neutral
Meridans Entered:
Primary: None given
Traditional Actions/Indications:
- Tonifies Qi, harmonises the Stomach, strengthen the Spleen
Stomachache
- Resolves Toxicity and reduces swelling
Sores and boils
Scalds
Mumps
Eczema
Suggested Daily Dosage: Decoct in water or cook it for eating.
Notable Constituents:
- Solanine
Glycoalkaloid saponin produced as a defence against pests and feared by some to cause aggravation of arthritis and other medical conditions. It is stimulated by exposure of the tubers to sunlight in order to prevent it being eaten and generally accumulates most in the skin which tastes bitter. Sunlight also stimulates the generation of chlorophyll which makes these areas turn green. Therefore the easiest way to reduce solanine content is to store in the dark, peel the skin and avoid any green or bitter tasting parts.
- Chaconine
A compound related to solanine with similar properties. Both are derived from solanidine with some minor differences in structure and have a synergistic effect on pests and fungi than when used in isolation.
Does not appear in any formulae listed on this site
Research Links & References: (click to display)
Research Links:
Reference Notes:
Individual herb information has sourced mainly from TCM Wiki and American Dragon for basic data and then updated manually with my own notes. Zhou, Xie and Yan (2011): Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Vol. 5, and A+ Medical Encyclopaedia have been used for entries not available from those sources with additional material searched for and filled in where available. Western herbs not appearing in the Chinese literature have used Ross (2010): Combining Western Herbs and Chinese Medicine: A Clinical Materia Medica, White Rabbit Institute of Healing and therapeutika.ch. Choices of which source to use or combine have been my own.
These pages are intended to assist clinicians and are not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment for which a qualified professional should be consulted. Actions and indications are taken from traditional uses and do not necessarily reflect the evidence base which should be researched independently. Dosages are for guidance only and will vary dependening on the potency of the batch and the tolerance of the individual so should be evaluated by a professional based on individual needs.
