Qi Tongzi is the immature fruit of the Euphorbiaceae plant Vernicia montana. It can be used fresh or dried. Qi Tongzi is spherical in shape and has the effect of clearing heat and reducing swelling. It can be used to treat abscesses and burns. Now let's learn more about Qi Tongzi together!
[Appearance]
Vernicia montana is a small deciduous tree that can grow up to 9m tall. Its branches are thick and hairless, with grayish bark. The leaves are alternate; leaf stalks can reach up to 12cm long, with 2 reddish-purple glands at the top;
The leaf blades are leathery and ovate-heart-shaped, measuring 5-15cm long and 3-14cm wide. The apex is gradually pointed, and the base is heart-shaped or wedge-shaped. The edges are entire, sometimes with 3 shallow lobes. The young leaves are covered with short soft hairs that can change color, but they become almost hairless and shiny green as they mature.
The flowers bloom before the leaves, arranged in short, conical inflorescences at the ends of the branches. The plants are monoecious, with separate male and female flowers on the same plant. The calyx is irregular and 2-3 lobed. The petals are white with orange-red spots and stripes at the base;
The fruit is nearly spherical, with a diameter of 3-6cm. The seeds have a thick, shell-like seed coat. The flowering period is from April to May, and the fruiting period is in October.
[Medicinal Uses]
1. Treats ulcers and boils: Cut open the immature fruit of Vernicia montana and apply the juice to the affected area.
2. Treats carbuncles: Cut the immature fruit of Vernicia montana into small pieces and apply them to the affected area.
3. Treats scabies and ringworm: Mash the fruit of Vernicia montana into a pulp and apply the juice to the affected area.
4. Treats burns: Mash the fruit of Vernicia montana into a pulp, mix with winter honey, and apply it to the affected area.
