Gua Mu Tong is the dried stem of the Northeast Gua Mu Tong plant, which belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family. It has high medicinal value, but it is also highly toxic. It is important to pay attention to its usage and dosage to avoid harm to the human body.
Gua Mu Tong is a bitter, cold, and toxic Chinese herbal medicine. It can be used to treat mouth ulcers, restlessness, and yellow urine. It can also eliminate edema and be beneficial for hot and painful urination or abnormal vaginal discharge.
It can also be used to treat amenorrhea and insufficient lactation. Additionally, Gua Mu Tong has a good effect on treating damp-heat painful obstruction.
For the treatment of hot and painful urination, it can be combined with some Plantago seeds. For edema, Gua Mu Tong can be used in combination with Zhu Ling and Sang Bai Pi.
To treat mouth ulcers and other conditions, it can be used in combination with other Chinese herbal medicines such as Rehmannia, Licorice, and Bamboo Leaves.
Although Gua Mu Tong has many benefits, it should not be consumed in excessive amounts. The usual dosage is 3-6 grams and it should not be taken for a long period of time or in excessive amounts.
If taken in excessive amounts or for a long period of time, Gua Mu Tong can cause renal dysfunction, and pregnant women should not consume it.
Many people believe that traditional Chinese medicine has few side effects, so they do not pay attention to the correct use of medications. In fact, traditional Chinese medicine also has side effects, and herbs like Gua Mu Tong should be used properly.
Long-term use of Gua Mu Tong may damage the kidneys and cause changes in the renal interstitial mitochondria, leading to swelling and other conditions.
When the kidney function is impaired and the ability to produce and excrete urine is reduced, toxins and waste products can accumulate in the body, resulting in physical damage. Therefore, it is important to use Gua Mu Tong properly when treating diseases.
