Suigu Zi, also known as Zhuye Maidong, is harvested in summer and autumn, dried, and produced in Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces. What are the medicinal properties and chemical components of Suigu Zi?
Properties of Suigu Zi
The dried rhizome and tuber. The rhizome is cylindrical, with connected nodes, and the upper part retains remnants of stems and leaves. The surface is rough, brownish-gray or brownish-black, and numerous tubers cluster around the circumference.
Intact tubers are spindle-shaped, measuring 1-3 centimeters in length and 2-5 millimeters in diameter. The surface is yellowish-white to tan, and the flesh is fleshy.
They have irregular wrinkles and the fractured surface is pale yellowish-white. The taste is slightly sweet.
Chemical Components of Suigu Zi
The rhizomes contain arundoin and indigo white grass extract.
Medicinal Uses of Suigu Zi
① Treats nephritis: Take 15 grams each of dried Zhuye and Dizhen. Decoct in water and take once a day. (From "Jiangxi Herbal Medicine")
② Treats fever, restlessness, and thirst: Take 9-15 grams of dried Zhuye or leaves. Decoct in water and take orally. (From "Jiangxi Herbal Medicine")