The oak tree leaves are tall, reaching up to 25cm. The one-year-old branches are densely covered with soft hairs. They are mostly found on gentle slopes and roadsides. They are harvested in summer and autumn, either used fresh or dried.
Oak tree leaves
Morphology of oak tree leaves
The edges have single serrations, and there are 7-15 pairs of lateral veins. The flowers are monoecious, rarely dioecious, with male and female flowers on the same plant. The male flowers cluster in the leaf axils or bract axils of the lower part of the new branches, and the female flowers, 1-3 in number, grow in the leaf axils of the upper part of the new branches.
The perianth consists of 4-5 tepals, and the stamens are of the same number as the tepals and opposite to them. The female flowers only have one pistil, with a 1-chambered ovary and 2 slanting styles. The upper part of the nut is inclined, with a diameter of 2.5-4mm. The flowering period is from March to April, and the fruiting period is from October to November.
Habitat distribution of oak tree leaves
Ecological environment: Mostly found on slopes and roadsides, or planted near houses.
Distribution: Found in central and southern China, southwest China, as well as Shaanxi, Gansu, Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Fujian, and Tibet.
Functions and indications of oak tree leaves
【Properties and flavors】Bitter; cold in nature
【Functions and indications】Clears heat and detoxifies; cools the blood. Used for treating painful sores and excessive menstrual bleeding.
【Usage and dosage】Taken internally: Decoction, 6-10g. External use: Appropriate amount, crushed and applied.
【Discussions from different sources】
1. "Tang Materia Medica": The tender leaves are effective in treating burns and ulcers when applied.
2. "Rihua Yu Materia Medica": Used to treat swollen and ulcerated sores, crushed with salt and applied.
3. Yao Kecheng's "Food Materia Medica": Used to clear the heart and lungs; applied to treat burns.
