Jin Yin Hua (honeysuckle) and Jin Yin Hua Teng (honeysuckle vine) are both highly valued traditional Chinese medicinal herbs that can be used to treat various ailments. But can the leaves of Jin Yin Hua also be soaked in water and consumed?
Can Jin Yin Hua leaves be soaked in water and consumed?
Yes, they can be soaked in water, but it is recommended to boil them for better results.
In addition to Jin Yin Hua and Jin Yin Hua Teng, the leaves of Jin Yin Hua can also be used medicinally because they all come from the same plant. The medicinal properties of Jin Yin Hua leaves are similar to the flowers and vines, and they are effective in treating various heat-related illnesses. However, due to the thicker tissue structure of the leaves, the medicinal components are not easily extracted like in Jin Yin Hua. Therefore, it is generally recommended to boil the Jin Yin Hua leaves before consuming for better results.
The efficacy and functions of Jin Yin Hua leaves
Clearing heat and detoxification
Jin Yin Hua leaves have the ability to clear heat and detoxify, which makes them a substitute for Jin Yin Hua. However, their medicinal properties are weaker than those of Jin Yin Hua, so a larger quantity is needed. They can be used as an adjuvant treatment for sore throat, fever, rashes, and other heat-related conditions. Additionally, the medicinal components in Jin Yin Hua leaves have certain inhibitory effects on common bacteria and streptococcus, providing some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Reducing swelling and relieving pain
Jin Yin Hua leaves have strong heat-clearing and detoxifying properties, making them effective in treating abscesses, swelling, and painful conditions. However, for these types of conditions, topical application is usually recommended. The simplest method is to crush fresh leaves and apply them directly to the affected area.
Dispelling wind and eliminating dampness
Jin Yin Hua leaves have the ability to disperse wind, promote circulation, and eliminate dampness. They can be used to treat rheumatic pain, joint swelling, and other similar conditions. For these types of diseases, it is generally recommended to take them internally and apply them externally for better results.
How to make Jin Yin Hua leaf tea
Steps:
1. Take about 20 grams of Jin Yin Hua leaves and wash off any dirt on the surface.
2. Put the Jin Yin Hua leaves in a pot.
3. Add an appropriate amount of water.
4. Boil on high heat and then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Strain the residue and drink the liquid.
Precautions when consuming Jin Yin Hua leaves
1. Avoid excessive consumption
Jin Yin Hua leaves have a cooling nature, so it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities as it may stimulate the stomach and cause discomfort. The recommended dosage of Jin Yin Hua leaves is around 10-30 grams.
2. Avoid long-term consumption
Jin Yin Hua leaves have a cooling nature, and prolonged consumption may damage the spleen and stomach function, which is not conducive to overall gastrointestinal health. It is generally recommended to stop consuming Jin Yin Hua leaves once symptoms improve.
3. Avoid consumption during menstruation
It is best for women to avoid consuming Jin Yin Hua leaves during menstruation. The cooling nature of Jin Yin Hua leaves may affect the discharge of menstrual blood, leading to blood clots or menstrual pain.
Contraindications for consuming Jin Yin Hua leaves
1. Not suitable for those with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold
People with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold have weaker gastrointestinal function, and the cooling nature of Jin Yin Hua leaves may further stimulate the coldness in the intestines and stomach, exacerbating discomfort symptoms such as indigestion, loose stools, and cold hands and feet.
2. Not suitable for those with wind-cold type of common cold
The treatment for wind-cold type of common cold should focus on warming the lungs and dispersing coldness. The cooling nature of Jin Yin Hua leaves, with its strong heat-clearing effect, may worsen cold symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and sneezing.
