The Efficacy and Functions of Buddha's Hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis)
Disease description:
Recently, a friend gave me some chayote (chinese melon), saying that it is beneficial for cardiovascular health. I am not very familiar with it. Could you please tell me what are the health benefits and effects of chayote?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
The effects and functions of Buddha's hand mainly include the following aspects:
1. **Promoting liver function and relieving depression**: Buddha's hand is pungent and warm in nature, entering the liver and spleen meridians. It is suitable for conditions caused by stagnation of liver qi, such as rib pain, irritability, chest tightness, and insomnia.
2. **Drying dampness and resolving phlegm**: Buddha's hand has a pungent flavor and enters the lung meridian, possessing the effect of drying dampness and resolving phlegm. It can be used for damp-phlegm cough, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and similar conditions.
3. **Regulating qi, harmonizing the stomach, and relieving pain**: Buddha's hand helps regulate qi, harmonize the stomach, and relieve pain. It may be used to treat indigestion, weakened stomach function in the elderly, chronic gastritis, and neurogenic gastric pain.
4. **Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects**: Compounds in Buddha's hand, such as limonene, exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, muscle pain, and inflammatory diseases.
