Cremastra appendiculata (D. Don) Makino
Aliases：Suanpanqi、Rentouqi、Rentouqi、Sanqisun、Shancigu
Dujuanlan (Cremastrae Pseudobulbus) is a Chinese medicinal herb. It is the dried pseudobulb of Cremastra appendiculata (D. Don) Makino (family Orchidaceae). It is distributed in Shaanxi Province as well as Southwest and Southeast China.
Efficacy & Actions
Clear heat and resolve toxin, transform phlegm and dissipate nodules.
Indications
Carbuncles, sores and furuncles, scrofula and phlegm nodules, tuberculosis of lymph nodes, snake and insect bites.
Modern Pharmacology
1.Antitumor (anti-cancer) effect. 2.Antibacterial (bacteriostatic) effect. 3.Effect on the hematopoietic system: enhances hematopoietic function. 4.Hypoglycemic effect (blood glucose lowering). 5.Hypotensive effect (blood pressure lowering). 6.Other effects: inhibits cell division, anti-radiation, and antispasmodic effects.
Ingredients
Phenanthrenes: shancigusin I, coelonin, 7-hydroxy-2,4-dimethoxyphenanthrene, etc. Bibenzyls: batatasin III, gigantol, bulbocodin D, etc. Glycosides: militarine, gastrodin, 4-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl cinnamate, etc. Aromatics: cinnamic acid, 3-hydroxyhydrocinnamic acid, erythrolic acid, hesperidin, etc. Others: flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, etc.
Usage & Dosage
Internal use: 3–9 g. External use: Appropriate amount.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in cases of Spleen and Stomach deficiency cold.
Selected Formulas
For carbuncles, sores, fistulas, scrofula and tuberculous lymph nodes: Appropriate amount of Dujuanlan, ground with vinegar and applied topically. (Source: Supplements to the Materia Medica – Bencao Shiyi)
Daily Consumption
I. Internal Use (Decoction) Standard dosage: 3–9 g, decoct in water and take orally. Common combinations: Often combined with Prunellae Spica (Xiakucao), Fritillariae Thunbergii Bulbus (Zhebeimu), and Scrophulariae Radix (Yuanxuan) for scrofula, phlegm nodules, carbuncles and sores. II. Dietary Reference (Rarely used; must be under physician guidance) Shancigu stewed lean pork: Take 3–6 g of Shancigu (crushed), 50–100 g of lean pork, add water and stew for 1 hour. Drink the soup and eat the meat. Used for sore throat, lymphadenitis due to heat‑toxin. Note: This product is slightly toxic. Do not take in large doses or for prolonged periods. Contraindicated in cases of spleen‑stomach deficiency cold. III. Daily Consumption Contraindications Absolutely contraindicated for: Pregnant women, children, the elderly and debilitated, and those with spleen‑stomach deficiency cold. Adverse reactions: Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; severe cases may lead to liver and kidney damage. Do not take with irritating foods: Avoid spicy, greasy, raw, and cold foods.
Medicinal Parts
Fresh: fresh whole herb (including rhizome and rootlets) Dried: dried above‑ground part (stems and leaves)
Selection & Storage
Storage: Store in a dry container in a cool, dry place, protected from insects.