What is the first image that comes to mind when you think of "wild sorghum"? Does it remind you of the TV series "Red Sorghum" starring Zhou Xun and Zhu Yawen? It's indeed a great show. But do you know the uses of wild sorghum? Are you familiar with it? Let me take you through it!
Image of wild sorghum
Uses of Wild Sorghum
【Functions and Indications】 According to "Yunnan Medicinal Herbs": "Promotes Qi circulation, relieves pain, invigorates blood circulation, and dissipates blood stasis. Used for chronic gastritis and injuries from falls and blows."
According to "Selected Yunnan Medicinal Herbs": "The whole plant dispels wind and dampness. Used for treating rheumatic pain."
【Dosage and Administration】 Oral administration: Decoction, 9-15 grams. External use: Powdered and applied topically.
【Prescription】 Used for treating scrofula: Grind the roots of wild sorghum into powder, mix with sesame oil, and apply to the affected area. (Source: "Yunnan Medicinal Herbs")
Distinguishing Wild Sorghum
Wild sorghum and red corydalis both belong to the same genus, and they both have the functions of promoting Qi circulation, relieving pain, invigorating blood circulation, and dissipating blood stasis, so they are often compared by people.
1. Wild Sorghum
The rhizome of wild sorghum is cylindrical, slightly curved, about 11cm long, and about 2cm in diameter.
The surface is dark brown, with numerous wart-like projections at the base, and many root scars and remnants of fine roots can be seen. The upper part of the stem base is densely covered with brown scales and long hairs.
It is hard and not easily broken, with a powdery texture and a reddish-brown color. It has a slight odor and a pungent, astringent taste.
The whole plant of wild sorghum is shriveled. The stem is relatively thick and flattened cylindrical in shape, with a brown to dark brown surface, brown glandular hairs, and no petals. It has a slight odor and a pungent, astringent taste.
2. Red Corydalis
The rhizome of red corydalis is irregularly long and chunky, about 7cm long and 0.5-1cm in diameter.
The surface is brownish, uneven, with numerous root scars, and sometimes scales-like bracts can be seen.
There are residual stem bases with brownish-yellow long hairs. It is hard and not easily broken, with a powdery texture, a yellowish-white color, and a slight red or reddish-brown hue.
It has a slight odor and a bitter, pungent taste. Those with large size, firm texture, and white or slightly reddish color on the cross-section are preferred.
Images of Wild Sorghum
Image of wild sorghum
