What are the functions and effects of Phytolacca?

Nov 20, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

The root of Phytolacca acinosa, usually used in its dried form for medicinal purposes, generally has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, promotes bowel movements and laxation, alleviates phlegm and suppresses coughing, detoxifies and dissipates nodules, and promotes diuresis to relieve edema. Phytolacca acinosa extracts, decoctions, and saponins have inhibitory effects on pathogens such as Trichophyton schoenleinii, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Therefore, appropriate use of Phytolacca acinosa can achieve antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Phytolacca americana is generally used medicinally in its dried root form and typically possesses various therapeutic effects and functions, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, laxative effects, expectorant and antitussive properties, detoxification with dissipating nodules, and diuretic effects for reducing edema. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Phytolacca extracts, decoctions, and saponins demonstrate inhibitory effects against pathogens such as Trichophyton schoenleinii, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Therefore, appropriate use of Phytolacca can exert antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and may provide certain adjuvant therapeutic benefits for inflammatory diseases.

2. Laxative Effects

Phytolacca has a purgative effect that can help alleviate symptoms of obstructed excretion, such as constipation and urinary retention. However, due to its strong action and inherent toxicity, it is generally not used as a routine laxative.

3. Expectorant and Antitussive Effects

Phytolacca enters the lung meridian and possesses expectorant, antitussive, and anti-asthmatic properties. The sapogenins contained in Phytolacca have expectorant effects, directly stimulating respiratory mucosa, increasing glandular secretion, and promoting ciliary movement, thereby facilitating the breakdown and expulsion of phlegm. Meanwhile, the alkaloid components in Phytolacca have antitussive effects, helping alleviate symptoms of cough with phlegm. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as cough with phlegm and asthma, viscous phlegm difficult to expel, wheezing, and sore throat.

4. Detoxification and Dissipating Nodules

Phytolacca can be used to treat diseases such as boils, carbuncles, and mastitis. Its detoxifying and nodule-dissipating effects are mainly attributed to its alkaloid and saponin components, which effectively inhibit inflammatory responses, promote local blood circulation, and accelerate toxin elimination.

5. Diuretic and Anti-edematous Effects

Certain components in Phytolacca can stimulate the kidneys, increasing glomerular filtration rates, thereby achieving diuretic and anti-edematous effects. The active ingredients promote urine production and accelerate the excretion of bodily fluids, offering therapeutic benefits for symptoms such as edema and difficult urination.

However, Phytolacca also has certain toxicity. Abuse or excessive consumption may lead to poisoning symptoms, including nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In case of any abnormalities, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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