What are the functions and effects of castor leaves?

Generally speaking, castor leaves are a common traditional Chinese herb with various functions and effects, mainly including reducing swelling and detoxifying, relieving itching, dispelling wind and cold, promoting circulation and relieving pain, clearing heat and detoxifying, etc. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Reducing Swelling and Detoxifying

Castor leaves have the effect of reducing swelling and detoxifying and can be used to treat symptoms such as abscesses and toxic swellings. Its active ingredients can inhibit bacterial growth, promote the resolution of inflammation, and thus accelerate wound healing.

2. Relieving Itching

Applying crushed fresh castor leaves directly onto the skin can effectively relieve itching. Some of its components have calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce skin inflammation and itching.

3. Dispelling Wind and Cold

Castor leaves can dispel wind and cold and can be used to treat symptoms such as headache and body pain caused by external contraction of cold pathogen. Its warm nature helps to expel cold from the body and promote blood circulation, thereby relieving pain.

4. Promoting Circulation and Relieving Pain

Castor leaves have the effect of promoting circulation and relieving pain and can be used to treat pain caused by rheumatic pain or traumatic injuries. Its active ingredients can relax muscles and tendons, alleviate pain and swelling.

5. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying

Castor leaves also have the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying and can be used to treat symptoms such as sore throat, abscesses, and toxic swellings. It can clear heat toxins from the body, reduce inflammation and swelling, and promote recovery.

Although castor leaves have various functions and effects, they contain toxic components such as ricinine, so caution should be exercised to avoid accidental ingestion or overdose. At the same time, special populations such as pregnant women, children, and elderly individuals should use them only under the guidance of a physician. When using castor leaves for treatment, it is essential to follow medical advice and not self-medicate or alter the dosage without authorization.