Sichuan Fangfeng is the root of the umbrella-shaped plant Saposhnikovia divaricata. It is harvested in spring and autumn by digging out the roots, washing them clean, and drying them. What are the aliases and functions of Sichuan Fangfeng?
Aliases of Sichuan Fangfeng
Bamboo Joint Fangfeng, Mao Qianhu, Xifeng Tugao Ben, Fangfeng
Plant Morphology of Sichuan Fangfeng
Sichuan Fangfeng is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height. Its main root is thick and shaped like a long cone. The stem is single and cylindrical, with longitudinal grooves, smooth at the base, and densely covered with white soft hairs near the inflorescence.
The basal leaves have petioles, measuring 10-15 centimeters in length and forming a sheath-like base around the stem. The leaves are pinnately compound with 2-3 ternate leaves, ultimately divided into linear lobes with coarse serrations along the edges, occasionally forming incised notches, and are hairless. The compound umbel inflorescence is terminal.
The flowers of Sichuan Fangfeng are relatively large, without a general involucre. The pedicels of the umbel are 25-30, measuring 5-8 millimeters in length, and covered with white short hairs.
The small umbellate inflorescences have 25-30 flowers, with several small bracts that are lanceolate and densely covered with thorns. The sepals are not obvious.
There are 5 white petals that are inversely ovate, with an inwardly folded and raised tip. There are 5 stamens and an ovary that is ovoid and inferior, with 2 styles at the base of the ovary.
The double schizocarps are compressed and oval-shaped, measuring 5 millimeters in length and 2-3 millimeters in width. They are hairless and have distinct dorsal ridges and winged lateral ridges. The flowering period is from August to September, and the fruiting period is from September to October.
Habitat Distribution of Sichuan Fangfeng
Ecological environment: It grows on moist rocky slopes at an altitude of 600-1500 meters.
Resource distribution: It is distributed in Sichuan, Hubei, and other areas.
Functions and Indications of Sichuan Fangfeng
It disperses wind, removes wind, overcomes dampness, and relieves pain. It is mainly used for wind-cold colds, colds with dampness, headaches, dizziness, cold and damp abdominal pain, diarrhea, rheumatic arthralgia, limb spasms, tetanus, red eyes, sores and ulcers, hernia, scabies, and rubella.
Usage and Dosage of Sichuan Fangfeng
Internal use: Decoction, 3-9 grams, or in pill or powder form. External use: Appropriate amount, ground into powder or pounded for application.
Precautions for Eating Sichuan Fangfeng
It is prohibited for those with deficiency heat and excessive sweating.
