What are the functions and effects of mouse footprints?

Mouse footprints refer to the herbaceous plant *Pluchea indica* of the Compositae family. *Pluchea indica* typically has functions and effects including clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting diuresis and reducing edema, strengthening the spleen and eliminating dampness, arresting diarrhea and consolidating the intestines, and improving skin complexion. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Clearing heat and detoxifying: *Pluchea indica* possesses the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, making it suitable for treating symptoms caused by heat toxicity such as sore throat and oral ulcers. It helps eliminate internal heat toxins, reduce inflammatory responses, and promote wound healing. In heat-toxin-related diseases such as acute pharyngitis and tonsillitis, *Pluchea indica* can serve as an adjunctive treatment.

2. Promoting diuresis and reducing edema: *Pluchea indica* has diuretic properties that help eliminate excess fluid from the body, thus alleviating edema. It improves fluid balance within the body, relieves related symptoms, and enhances quality of life. In cases of edema caused by nephritis or cirrhosis, *Pluchea indica* can aid in promoting urine excretion and reducing swelling.

3. Strengthening the spleen and eliminating dampness: *Pluchea indica* has the function of strengthening the spleen and removing dampness, making it suitable for symptoms such as spleen deficiency and excessive dampness. It enhances spleen function, promotes digestion and absorption, and reduces abdominal distension and diarrhea. In chronic diarrhea and poor appetite associated with digestive system disorders, *Pluchea indica* can serve as an effective adjunctive treatment.

4. Arresting diarrhea and consolidating the intestines: *Pluchea indica* has the effect of controlling diarrhea and strengthening the intestines, making it suitable for treating symptoms such as diarrhea and dysentery. It constricts the intestines, reduces intestinal secretions, and alleviates diarrhea and abdominal pain. In both acute and chronic diarrhea or dysentery, *Pluchea indica* can be used as an adjunctive treatment to relieve symptoms and improve digestive function.

5. Improving skin complexion: *Pluchea indica* contains certain active components that contribute to a clearer and more radiant complexion. It inhibits melanin production, reduces pigmentation and freckles, and makes the skin smoother and more delicate. Long-term consumption of *Pluchea indica* can improve skin tone and delay skin aging.

In addition, *Pluchea indica* can also serve as an adjunctive treatment for respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis and asthma, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve respiratory function. It should be used according to medical advice, with attention to dosage and proper usage methods to avoid adverse effects caused by improper use.