Along the roadsides in rural areas, we often see various strange-shaped plants, which we call wild fruits. They usually have medicinal and edible effects. Today, I will introduce you to the "Ground Squash". Do you know what it looks like? Let's take a look together with me!
Image of Ground Squash
Ground Squash
Ground Squash is mainly found in the northern regions and less common in the southern regions. The locals call it "Ground Squash", while some refer to it as "Sheep Horn".
In rural areas, this green wild fruit is a favorite among children. When it is bright green, the flesh is the most delicious, with a refreshing and sweet taste.
When the color becomes dark, it means the fruit is old and no longer tasty.
Medicinal Effects of Ground Squash
Collection: The whole plant and fruit of Ground Squash can be used as medicine. It is harvested in summer and autumn, cut into sections, and dried for later use. The young fruit can be eaten.
Functions and Indications: It nourishes Qi and promotes lactation. It is used for deficient Qi and insufficient milk secretion. It can also be used externally to treat warts.
Administration and Dosage: 0.05-1 liang (a traditional unit of weight), for external use, take fresh grass as needed, break it into two and apply the juice on warts.
Functions: It nourishes lung Qi, clears heat, generates body fluids, relieves thirst, and has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Habitat Distribution of Ground Squash
1. Ecological Environment
(1) It grows on slopes, sand dunes, dry valleys, wastelands, and fields at altitudes of 200-2000 meters.
(2) It grows near ditches, riverbanks, shrubs or grasslands on slopes or roadsides.
2. Resource Distribution
(1) It is distributed in Northeast China, North China, Henan, Hebei, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Shandong, Anhui, Gansu, Xinjiang, Jiangsu, and other places.
(2) It is found in Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Shaanxi, Shandong, Jiangsu, Henan, and other places.
Image of Ground Squash
