The Efficacy and Functions of Semen Persicae
Generally speaking, Semen Pruni (mountain peach seed) has various therapeutic effects and functions, including promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, relieving cough and asthma, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and promoting diuresis to reduce edema. Specific details are as follows:
1. Promoting Blood Circulation and Removing Blood Stasis: Semen Pruni contains ingredients such as fatty oils and amygdalin, which can promote blood circulation, thereby achieving the purpose of eliminating accumulated blood stasis in the body. This therapeutic effect can be used to treat symptoms such as traumatic injuries and painful swelling due to blood stasis, making it one of the commonly used herbs for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis in clinical practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
2. Moistening the Intestines and Relieving Constipation: Semen Pruni is rich in oily compounds, which can increase the water content of feces, making it easier to expel from the body, thus exerting its function of moistening the intestines and relieving constipation. It has a certain alleviating effect on conditions such as constipation and difficulty in defecation, making it a natural ingredient for improving intestinal health.
3. Relieving Cough and Asthma: Amygdalin in Semen Pruni has an inhibitory effect on the cough center, reducing the frequency of cough reflexes. Additionally, it can promote the relaxation of respiratory smooth muscles, alleviating asthma symptoms. Therefore, Semen Pruni has a certain relieving effect on symptoms such as coughing and asthma caused by excessive heat in the lungs.
4. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects: Certain components in Semen Pruni have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammatory responses, thereby providing pain relief. This is beneficial for alleviating discomfort caused by conditions such as arthritis and muscle pain, helping patients relieve pain and improve their quality of life.
5. Promoting Diuresis and Reducing Edema: Semen Pruni also has diuretic effects, helping to expel excess water from the body, thereby reducing edema symptoms. It is suitable for treating conditions such as edema and swelling of the feet due to fluid retention.
Although Semen Pruni has many benefits, it should be consumed or used in moderation to avoid any adverse effects caused by excessive intake.