The Efficacy and Functions of Selaginella tamariscina
Under normal circumstances, Selaginella is the dried whole herb of Selaginella tamariscina or Selaginella pulvinata, plants of the Selaginellaceae family.粗叶卷柏 (Rough-leaf Selaginella) has various functions and effects including hemostasis, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, clearing away heat and toxic materials, promoting diuresis and reducing edema, as well as activating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis. Details are as follows:

1. Hemostasis
Rough-leaf Selaginella has effective hemostatic properties and can be used to treat various hemorrhagic disorders, such as hemoptysis, hematemesis, hematochezia, and metrorrhagia. Its hemostatic effect may be related to several bioactive components it contains, which can promote blood coagulation and enhance vascular contraction, thereby achieving hemostasis.
2. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory
Rough-leaf Selaginella has certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities and can inhibit various pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. It can be used to treat inflammation caused by bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and skin infections, helping to reduce inflammatory responses and alleviate symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain.
3. Clearing Away Heat and Toxic Materials
Rough-leaf Selaginella is commonly used to clear away heat and detoxify the body, aiding in the elimination of internal heat toxins. It has certain therapeutic effects on conditions caused by heat toxicity, such as sore throat, oral ulcers, abscesses, and other toxic sores, effectively relieving discomfort caused by heat toxicity.
4. Promoting Diuresis and Reducing Edema
Rough-leaf Selaginella has diuretic properties that can promote the elimination of dampness from the body, improving symptoms caused by dampness stagnation such as edema and oliguria. It can increase urine output and promote urination, thereby reducing edema and restoring normal fluid metabolism in the body.
5. Activating Blood Circulation and Resolving Blood Stasis
Rough-leaf Selaginella has the effect of activating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis, making it useful in treating traumatic injuries, bruising, and pain caused by blood stasis. It can promote local blood circulation, dissipate瘀血 (stagnant blood), relieve pain, aid in the repair of damaged tissues, and provide effective regulation for blood stasis accumulation caused by external injuries.
During the administration of Rough-leaf Selaginella, patients should pay attention to dietary regulation and avoid consuming spicy, greasy, or other irritating foods that may affect the efficacy of the herb.