Actions:
Antipyretic, antibiotic, antihypertensive, cholesterol reducing
aid, mild laxative
Externally: Germicide, antiparasitical
Internally: Gentle laxative
Seeds and leaves are used for skin diseases, and leprosy. Leaf
decoctions (made by adding 1 part leaves to 10 parts water) given
in two ounce doses to children, removes fevers during teething.
The herb also eases skin itch and eruptions when it is given mixed
with lime juice.
The tender leaves are a very nutritioous and tasty when cooked.
Used as a poultice, warmed leaves reduce gout, sciatica, and joint
pains. Seeds are used as a substitute for tea and coffee.
Traditional Chinese Medicine:
This herb is especially good for conditions of the eyes. it will
brighten them and relieve pain, congestion, itchiness, redness,
or sensitivity to light when caused by wind-heat conditions. It
can also be used when there is headache along with some of the above
conditions in cases of liver yang rising. It is useful when there
is either chronic or acute constipation accompanying liver yin deficiency.
it has been shown to be effective in lowering cholesterol and reducing
blood pressure.
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