Wild Common Reed Root is a traditional Chinese medicine. Do you know if wild common reed root can be eaten directly? What are the effects and functions of common reed root? Let's find out the effects and functions of Chinese medicine common reed root!
Can Wild Common Reed Root be Eaten Directly?
Wild common reed root cannot be eaten directly. It needs to be processed before use.
Common reed root is a perennial herbaceous plant, 30-120 centimeters tall. It has fibrous roots and a short rhizome. The stems are clustered and triangular in shape. The leaves degenerate into two leaf sheaths, which grow at the base of the stem. They are membranous, brown, and have a slanting truncated tip.
The spikelets are ovoid and elongated, measuring 8-15 millimeters long and 4-6 millimeters wide. There are 3-20 fused spikelets, forming a lateral, solitary, head-like inflorescence. The bracts are triangular and act as an extension of the stem, measuring 2-10 centimeters long. The scales are ovate, pale brown, about 4 millimeters long, with a short pointed tip, ridges, and overlapping arrangement like tiles. The lower 1-2 scales are empty, and the rest have one bisexual flower. The uppermost flower is atrophied, and there are 6 downward-pointing hairs with thorns. There are 3 stamens and a 3-lobed stigma.
The small nutlets are inverted ovoid or flattened triangular, black and shiny when ripe. The flowering period is from July to August.
Introduction to the Effects and Functions of Common Reed Root
In traditional Chinese medicine, common reed root is believed to have the effects of clearing heat, promoting diuresis, and detoxification. It is mainly used for hot dysuria, urinary retention, excessive leukorrhea, and swollen and painful gums.
1. "Commonly Used Sichuan Chinese Herbs": "Clears heat, promotes urination. Used for toothache due to heat, dysuria, and leukorrhea."
2. "Sichuan Chinese Herbology" (1982 Edition): "Used for hot dysuria and urinary retention."
Dosage and Administration:
Oral administration: Decoction, 1-2 liang of fresh common reed root.
