Black knotweed, also known as iron skin Dendrobium, Yunnan iron skin, iron skin fighting, etc., has the functions of clearing the throat, moisturizing the throat, and reducing inflammation. It is especially loved by actors and singers.
[Other Names] Big black knotweed, hepatitis herb, small bone-healing pill, big bone-healing herb, four-ribbed herb.
[Source] The whole herb of the plant vein ear grass in the Rubiaceae family.
[Plant Morphology]
Black knotweed is a perennial herb. The stem is erect, cylindrical, 30-50 cm tall, with a woody base and slightly swollen nodes, tinged with purple-black.
The leaves are opposite; the petioles are short; the leaf blades are long, lanceolate or ovate-oblong, 4-12 cm long, 1.5-4 cm wide, gradually pointed at the apex, broadly cuneate at the base, with entire margins, green on the upper surface, pale green on the lower surface, the veins below raised, with 4 pairs of curved lateral veins;
The stipules are fused into a cup shape, with linearly divided teeth. The cymose inflorescence is axillary, with a peduncle 0.5-2.5 cm long; the small flowers are dark purple. The capsule is spherical.
[Habitat Distribution of Black Knotweed]
It grows in grassy slopes by the roadside.
Distributed in Guangdong, Guangxi, and Yunnan.
[Collection] Can be collected all year round, washed, cut into sections, dried, or used fresh.
[Properties and Flavors] Slightly pungent and bitter, warm.
[Functions and Indications] Clears heat and dampness, reduces inflammation and promotes bone healing. Used to treat malaria, hepatitis, rheumatism, bone pain, and conjunctivitis.
[Usage and Dosage] Internal use: Decoction, 3-5 qian (9-15 grams); or soaking in alcohol. External use: Crushed juice for eye application.
[Prescriptions] ①Treatment of malaria: 5 qian (15 grams) of black knotweed, 4 qian (12 grams) of Collumbine, 5 qian (15 grams) of red millet. Decoction and take orally.
②Treatment of hepatitis: 3-5 qian (9-15 grams) of dried black knotweed. Decoction and take orally.
③Treatment of rheumatism and bone pain: 4 qian (12 grams) of black knotweed root, 5 qian (15 grams) of four-ability herb, 1 liang (30 grams) of nine-segmented bull. Soak in alcohol and take orally. Take 10 mL each time, twice a day.
④Treatment of conjunctivitis: Wash fresh black knotweed, crush it and apply the juice to the eyes.
