The Efficacy and Function of Shu Qi (Chinese Herb)

Generally speaking, Shu Qi is a Chinese medicinal herb, which refers to the tender branches and leaves of Dichroa febrifuga, a plant from the Saxifragaceae family. It has various functions and benefits, including sedative and hypnotic effects, analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions, clearing heat and detoxifying, interrupting malaria, and eliminating phlegm. If needed, it should be used under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Sedative and Hypnotic Effects

Shu Qi has an inhibitory effect on the central nervous system, exerting sedative and hypnotic effects. It can be used to treat mental symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety, and helps improve sleep quality.

2. Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Some components contained in Shu Qi can relieve pain and help alleviate symptoms such as headache and toothache. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammatory responses.

3. Clearing Heat and Detoxification

With a pungent taste and warm nature, Shu Qi has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying. It can be used to improve symptoms such as abscesses, ulcers,癣 (fungal infections), skin itching, and can also remove internal heat pathogens, providing some relief for symptoms like fever caused by heat pathogens.

4. Interrupting Malaria

Shu Qi is suitable for treating warm-type malaria with chills and fever. It can rapidly control and eliminate Plasmodium parasites in the blood, making it an effective treatment for malaria. However, its effect is relatively short-lived, and relapse may easily occur.

5. Eliminating and Resolving Phlegm

Shu Qi can resolve accumulated phlegm, promote blood circulation to remove blood stasis, and reduce dampness. It is suitable for treating coughing with phlegm accumulation and other phlegm-related conditions. With its dampness-drying and phlegm-resolving properties, it can alleviate symptoms such as coughing due to damp phlegm, asthma, and hemoptysis.

However, pregnant women should avoid using Shu Qi to prevent any adverse effects on the fetus.