In China, the elm tree is an auspicious tree species and has always been the most popular. It is mostly found on gentle slopes and roadsides, and is harvested in summer and autumn, either used fresh or dried. So what are the functions and main uses of elm leaves?
Image of elm leaves
【Botanical Characteristics of Elm Leaves】
The edges are serrated with single teeth; there are 7-15 pairs of lateral veins. The flowers are unisexual, rarely mixed, and both male and female flowers are on the same tree. 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, are on the upper part of the new branches.
There are 4-5 petals; the stamens are the same number as the petals; the female flowers have only 1 pistil, 1-celled ovary, and 2 slanted 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.
【Functions and Main Uses of Elm Leaves】
Taste: Bitter; nature: Cold
Functions and main uses: Clears heat and detoxifies; cools the blood. Used for treating painful ulcers and excessive bleeding during menstruation.
Dosage and administration of elm leaves: Internal use: Decoction, 6-10g. External use: Appropriate amount, crushed and applied.
Image of elm leaves
Discussions from various sources:
1. "Tang Materia Medica": Fresh leaves are effective in treating sores and ulcers caused by heat.
2. "Ri Hua Yu Ben Cao": Used to treat swollen and ulcerated wounds, crushed with salt and applied.
3. Yao Kecheng's "Food Materia Medica": Used to cool the heart and lungs, and treat burns.
【Uses of Elm Trees】
The uses of elm trees are diverse. Not only do they have excellent effects in greening projects, but also their thick bark makes them the best tree species for making furniture. The older the elm tree, the stronger and better the furniture made from its wood will be.
Therefore, in life, tree species that have been around for a long time are very rare and highly sought after.
