The Efficacy and Functions of Impatiens (Balsam)
Generally, the effects and functions of Impatiens balsamina (凤仙花) include promoting blood circulation and regulating menstruation, reducing swelling and relieving pain, dispelling wind and removing dampness, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, and clearing heat and detoxifying. Specific details are as follows:
1. Promoting Blood Circulation and Regulating Menstruation: Impatiens balsamina is warm in nature and sweet in taste, entering the liver and heart meridians. It has the effect of promoting blood circulation and regulating menstruation. It can improve blood circulation, alleviate menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and postpartum lochia retention in women.
2. Reducing Swelling and Relieving Pain: Impatiens balsamina contains various active ingredients, such as flavonoids, which can promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism and tissue repair at inflamed areas. It is commonly used to treat bruises, contusions, skin inflammation, eczema, boils, and skin infections, as well as symptoms such as snake bites.
3. Dispelling Wind and Removing Dampness: Impatiens balsamina has the function of dispelling wind and eliminating dampness, and is effective in treating conditions such as waist and rib pain and limb weakness caused by rheumatism. It can relieve pain, numbness, and other discomforts caused by rheumatic diseases.
4. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory: Impatiens balsamina has inhibitory effects on various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Trichophyton rubrum. It can inhibit bacterial growth and reproduction, reduce inflammatory responses, and promote wound healing.
5. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying: Impatiens balsamina has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, and is commonly used to treat various symptoms caused by heat toxicity. It helps eliminate internal heat toxins and alleviate symptoms such as sore throat and oral ulcers.
When using Impatiens balsamina, it is necessary to follow medical advice. Additionally, special populations such as pregnant women, lactating women, children, and patients with impaired liver or kidney function should use it cautiously or avoid its use altogether.