What are the benefits and effects of Buddha's hand?

The effects and benefits of Buddha's hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) mainly include the following: 1. **Relieving liver stagnation and alleviating depression**: Buddha's hand helps to soothe the liver and relieve emotional depression, effectively reducing symptoms such as distending pain in the chest and hypochondrium, and abdominal fullness caused by liver qi stagnation. 2. **Regulating qi and harmonizing the middle jiao**: It regulates the flow of qi in the spleen and stomach, promoting normal digestive function, and is particularly effective for poor appetite, indigestion, and spleen-stomach qi stagnation. 3. **Drying dampness and resolving phlegm**: Buddha's hand can dry dampness and transform phlegm, making it suitable for treating excessive phlegm, coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea due to phlegm-dampness. Moreover, modern pharmacological studies indicate that extracts from Buddha's hand can inhibit intestinal smooth muscle, dilate coronary arteries, increase coronary blood flow, and exert expectorant, anti-asthmatic, and antitussive effects. It also demonstrates immune-modulating and anti-stress properties. It should be noted that Buddha's hand should not be consumed with crabs. Individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat or those without qi stagnation should use it cautiously, and those allergic to it should avoid its use.