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What are the medicinal benefits of Chen Hulü?

Oct 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Ziyi
Introduction
Chen Hulushell generally refers to the shell of a gourd. Under normal circumstances, the medicinal effects of gourd shell mainly include promoting diuresis and reducing edema, moistening the lungs to relieve cough, promoting fluid production to quench thirst, detoxification, relieving jaundice, and improving constipation. Gourd shell is commonly used to treat common conditions such as facial and bodily swelling, abdominal distension due to fluid accumulation, and beriberi, effectively alleviating edema symptoms quickly. It can be used in combination with other diuretic Chinese herbs such as Alismatis Rhizoma (Zexie) to achieve better anti-edema effects.

Chen Hulu usually refers to gourd shell. Generally speaking, the medicinal effects of gourd shell mainly include promoting diuresis and reducing edema, moistening the lungs to relieve cough, promoting fluid production to quench thirst, detoxifying and reducing jaundice, and improving constipation. Specific details are as follows:

1. Promoting Diuresis and Reducing Edema

Gourd shell is commonly used to treat common conditions such as facial swelling, abdominal distension due to fluid accumulation, and foot edema, effectively alleviating symptoms of edema. It can be used together with other diuretic Chinese herbs like Alisma (Zexie) for enhanced effectiveness.

2. Moistening the Lungs and Relieving Cough

Gourd shell can clear heat, promote urination, and also moisten the lungs to stop coughing. Typically, the shell can be crushed and mixed with honey before consumption.

3. Promoting Fluid Production and Quenching Thirst

Drinking water boiled with gourd shell can help generate body fluids and relieve thirst, making it suitable for people experiencing dry mouth or excessive thirst.

4. Detoxifying and Reducing Jaundice

Gourd shell has detoxifying and anti-jaundice properties and can be effective in treating damp-heat jaundice, urinary tract infections, and abscesses.

5. Improving Constipation

Boiled gourd shell water contains certain dietary fiber, which helps accelerate gastrointestinal motility, promoting digestion and absorption, and is suitable for individuals suffering from constipation.

It should be noted that consumption should be moderate to avoid side effects such as bloating or frequent urination. If any physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to consult a Traditional Chinese Medicine internal medicine specialist for proper diagnosis and targeted treatment.


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