What are the functions and effects of Southern Crane's Bill (Nan He Li)?

South Cowhage is the dried mature fruit of the Umbelliferae plant Daucus carota (wild carrot), commonly used for expelling parasites and eliminating food stagnation, strengthening the spleen and stimulating appetite, clearing heat and detoxifying, resolving phlegm and relieving cough, promoting blood circulation and dissipating blood stasis. Detailed functions and effects are as follows:

1. Expelling Parasites and Eliminating Food Stagnation: South Cowhage demonstrates effective vermifuge properties against various intestinal parasites. It can paralyze or kill intestinal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms, facilitating their expulsion from the body. The presence of intestinal parasites may interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and loss of appetite.

2. Strengthening the Spleen and Stimulating Appetite: South Cowhage enhances the digestive functions of the spleen and stomach. When the functions of the spleen and stomach are weak, food digestion and absorption may be impaired, resulting in indigestion. South Cowhage stimulates the digestive functions of the spleen and stomach, aiding in food digestion.

3. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying: South Cowhage possesses heat-clearing and detoxifying properties. When excessive internal heat toxins accumulate in the body, symptoms such as sores, abscesses, sore throat, and swelling may occur. South Cowhage helps eliminate internal heat toxins and alleviate inflammatory responses caused by these toxins.

4. Resolving Phlegm and Relieving Cough: South Cowhage aids in resolving phlegm. When the body is invaded by external pathogens or experiences dysfunction of internal organs, phlegm may form. Accumulation of phlegm in the respiratory tract can cause coughing and sputum production. South Cowhage helps thin phlegm, making it easier to expel. It also regulates the lung's functions of dispersing and descending qi, thereby alleviating cough symptoms.

5. Promoting Blood Circulation and Dissipating Blood Stasis: South Cowhage promotes blood circulation and dissipates blood stasis. After injuries from falls or blows, local bruising and swelling with pain may occur. South Cowhage enhances blood circulation, disperses blood stasis, improves blood supply to the injured area, accelerates the absorption and dissipation of bruising, and reduces swelling and pain.

However, it should be used under medical supervision, with attention to dosage control, avoiding long-term or excessive use to prevent adverse reactions. Additionally, individuals with weak spleen and stomach function, pregnant women, and lactating women should use it with caution.