Ground Squash, also known as Ground Gourd, Small Squash, Donkey Milk Head, etc., is distributed in Northeast China, North China, Jiangsu and other places in our country. The most familiar use of Ground Squash is for treating warts. So what should we pay attention to when using this medicine? Let's take a look at the Ground Squash through pictures!
Ground Squash Pictures
Morphological Characteristics of Ground Squash
1. Ground Squash
Upright semi-shrub. Underground stem single axis horizontal growth. Stem branches from the base.
Leaves opposite or nearly opposite; leaf blade linear, 3-5cm long, 2-5mm wide, lower side with raised midrib.
Umbellate cyme axillary; calyx hairy on the outside; corolla green and white; corolla limb cup-shaped, lobes triangular lanceolate, gradually closing, higher than the membrane of the ovary.
Fruit fusiform, gradually pointed at the apex, swollen in the middle, 5-6cm long, diameter about 2cm.
Seeds flat, dark brown, up to 8mm long, seed hairs white and silky, up to 2cm long. Flowering period is from May to August, fruiting period is from August to October.
2. Ground Creeper
Similar to the original species, the stem is weak, with fewer branches, and the stem tip usually extends and entwines.
Leaves linear or linear-oval; flowers smaller and more numerous. Flowering period is from March to August, fruiting period is from May to October.
Ground Squash Pictures
Efficacy of Ground Squash
Clearing deficient fire, replenishing qi, generating body fluids, promoting lactation.
Mainly used for deficiency fire and inflammation, sore throat due to insufficient body fluids, fatigue, forgetfulness, restless thirst, dizziness, insomnia; postpartum deficiency, insufficient milk.
1. "Inner Mongolia Traditional Chinese Medicine": "Clears heat, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, promotes lactation. Mainly used for blocked milk ducts, sore throat."
2. "Qingdao Traditional Chinese Medicine Handbook": "Mainly used for deficiency of qi and blood, neurosis, swollen and painful throat."
3. "National Compilation of Chinese Herbal Medicine": "Replenishes qi, promotes lactation. Mainly used for deficiency of the body and insufficient milk, externally used to treat warts."
Ground Squash Pictures
Precautions for using Ground Squash
1. Do not consume in excess
Ground Squash is very effective in clearing deficient fire, replenishing qi, generating body fluids, promoting lactation, etc. However, it is important to note that excessive consumption is not recommended;
Otherwise, it may have serious adverse effects on the body, so extra caution is needed. It is best to seek advice from a doctor before using it.
2. Do not eat too much
This traditional Chinese medicine is not suitable for everyone. In addition to paying attention to the dosage, the tender fruit of Ground Squash should not be eaten in excess.
