Wubeizi

Wubeizi

Wubeizi is a traditional Chinese medicine derived from the dried, unripe fruit of the plant species Rhus chinensis and Rhus potaninii. It is also known as Chinese gall or Galla Chinensis. The medicine has been used for centuries in TCM to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, cough, dysentery, and ulcers.

Description

Wubeizi is a small, round fruit that is green when unripe and turns black when it matures. The fruit is harvested before it ripens and is then dried for medicinal use. The dried fruit has a hard, brittle shell and a sour taste.

Medicinal Uses

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wubeizi is used to "astringe the lungs", "stop diarrhea", and "promote the production of body fluids". It is often used in combination with other herbs to treat a variety of conditions.

Wubeizi is also used in the treatment of chronic bronchitis, asthma, peptic ulcer, and chronic gastritis. It is also used as a topical treatment for skin diseases and wounds.

Pharmacological Effects

Studies have shown that Wubeizi has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. It also has a strong inhibitory effect on the growth of various types of bacteria and fungi.

Preparations and Dosage

Wubeizi can be taken orally as a decoction, pill, or powder. The typical dosage is 3-10 grams per day. For topical use, it can be applied as a powder or ointment.

See Also

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Rhus chinensis
• Rhus potaninii