Gansui has a certain level of toxicity and is not a commonly used Chinese medicine. However, it still has certain medicinal effects and functions. Let's learn about the efficacy and functions of Gansui below!
【Efficacy and Functions of Gansui】
1. Eliminating ascites
You can mash 5 scallions with their white parts, add 1 qian (3.75 grams) of powdered Gansui, mix well, and mash again. Before use, apply vinegar to the navel area to prevent infection and skin irritation. Then apply the medicine to the navel, cover with gauze, and secure it. Generally, urination or watery stools can be achieved within 2-4 hours. This method is effective in eliminating ascites.
2. Treating palpitation and excessive phlegm
Gansui has the function of treating palpitation and excessive phlegm. You can mix 10 grams of Gansui (without the heart), 10 grams of peeled purple Euphorbia root, and 10 grams of white mustard seeds. Grind the mixture into fine powder, cook it into a paste, and then dry it. Take 7-10 pills with light ginger soup before bedtime.
3. Relieving edema
Gansui can relieve edema. You can use 9 grams of Eclipta prostrata and 9 grams of Gansui, decoct them in water, and take the decoction.
【Precautions for Gansui】
1. Pregnant women should avoid using it, and generally stop using it once the illness is cured.
2. It is advisable to use processed Gansui or Gansui that has been soaked in vinegar, as they are less strong after processing and should not be used.
3. Traditionally, Gansui should not be combined with licorice, euphorbia, or large ephedra. However, the results of modern experiments are inconsistent.
Some reports indicate that according to experiments on rabbits, when Gansui (or euphorbia, large ephedra) is combined with licorice, there are no significant changes in breathing, heart rate, body temperature, pupillary reaction, or gastrointestinal function. However, other experiments have shown that the combination of Gansui and licorice produces different reactions depending on the ratio of the two substances.
