The Efficacy and Functions of Four-leaf Lotus
Jun 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, four-leaf lotus (water shield) is a common traditional Chinese herb, also known as water shield grass, and is a type of aquatic plant commonly found in the Chaoshan region. Its rhizomes can be used medicinally. Four-leaf lotus has various functions and effects, including clearing heat and promoting diuresis, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action, astringent and antidiarrheal effects, strengthening the spleen and stimulating the appetite, moistening the intestines and relieving constipation. During the medication period, spicy, greasy, raw, and cold irritating foods should be avoided to prevent interference with the drug's effectiveness.
Generally speaking, four-leaf water clover (also known as water shield) is a common traditional Chinese herb and a common aquatic plant in the Chaoshan region, whose rhizome can be used medicinally. Four-leaf water clover has various functions and effects, including clearing heat and promoting urination, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions, astringent and antidiarrheal effects, strengthening the spleen and stimulating the appetite, lubricating the intestines and relieving constipation. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Clearing Heat and Promoting Urination
Four-leaf water clover is of cold nature and can clear heat toxins from the body, promote urine excretion, thereby achieving the effect of clearing heat and promoting urination. It helps alleviate heat-related discomforts such as dark and scanty urine and urinary tract infections.
2. Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial
Four-leaf water clover contains natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components such as tannic acid and alkaloids, which can inhibit sensitive bacteria in the body and prevent the development of inflammation. It helps relieve inflammation caused by bacterial infections, such as mouth ulcers and sore throat.
3. Astringent and Antidiarrheal
Four-leaf water clover can eliminate enteritis, maintain the balance of intestinal flora, improve digestive function, and has astringent and antidiarrheal effects. It helps alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and enteritis.
4. Strengthening the Spleen and Stimulating the Appetite
Four-leaf water clover contains dietary fiber and certain specific volatile oils that can stimulate gastrointestinal motility, promote secretion of digestive juices, thereby enhancing appetite and improving indigestion and spleen-stomach weakness.
5. Lubricating the Intestines and Relieving Constipation
Four-leaf water clover contains dietary fiber and mucus components, which can promote intestinal motility and help soften stools, thus lubricating the intestines and relieving constipation. It helps alleviate constipation and improve intestinal problems.
It is recommended to take under the guidance of a doctor. During the medication period, spicy, greasy, raw, and cold foods should be avoided to prevent interference with the drug's effectiveness.
