Folium Cannabis
Aliases：Huo Ma Ye、Huo Ma Tou
Ma Ye (Hemp Leaf), a Chinese medicinal, is the leaf of Cannabis sativa L., a plant of the Moraceae family (genus Cannabis).
Efficacy & Actions
Relieve pain, relieve wheezing (asthma), and expel roundworms.
Indications
Hemp leaf is mainly used for the treatment of wheezing (asthma), traumatic pain, and roundworm (ascariasis) infestation.
Modern Pharmacology
Anti‑inflammatory and analgesic: Inhibits inflammatory cytokines such as TNF‑α and IL‑1β; alleviates rheumatic pain and traumatic injury. Antioxidant and neuroprotective: Scavenges free radicals; shows potential protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Antitumor: Inhibits the proliferation of various cancer cells, including liver cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. Antibacterial and antiparasitic: Exhibits inhibitory effects against bacteria, fungi, and roundworms (Ascaris). Cardiovascular regulation: Dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and reduces blood lipids. Hepatoprotective: Reduces chemical‑induced liver injury. Regulation of digestion and metabolism: Relieves vomiting, exerts antispasmodic effects, and lowers blood glucose. Immunomodulatory: Regulates the activity of immune cells.
Ingredients
Cannabinoids: Cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), etc. Flavonoids: Apigenin, luteolin, cannflavin A/B. Terpenoids: β‑Caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, α‑pinene, etc. Others: Alkaloids (e.g., cannabisativine), sterols (β‑sitosterol), phenolics, etc.
Usage & Dosage
. Internal use: 0.2–1.5 g, crushed for juice; or used in pills or powders. 2. External use: Appropriate amount, crushed for topical application.
Contraindications
Hemp leaf is toxic and should be used internally with caution. Excessive consumption may cause toxic reactions. Initial symptoms include dizziness, headache, vexation (irritability), epigastric discomfort, palpitations, generalized numbness, and a thick, dull sensation of the tongue and perioral area. Subsequently, a sensation of tightness around the lips, worsening palpitations, and decreased associative thinking may occur. In severe cases, confusion, lethargy, or coma may develop.
Selected Formulas
1. For treating malaria (Source: Pu Ji Fang – Universal Relief Prescriptions) Take hemp leaf (fresh or dried), place it in a wok, and stir‑fry over medium heat until fragrant. Remove the wok from the heat, cover it with paper, and allow the moisture to evaporate completely. Then grind the leaf into a fine powder. Two hours before the anticipated onset of malaria, take one dose of the powder, mixed with strong tea, warm water, or warm wine. 2. For treating infantile vesicular sores (pemphigus / chickenpox?) (Source: Tianmu Mountain Medicinal Flora) Take hemp leaf, grind it into a fine powder, mix with an appropriate amount of oil to form a paste, and apply topically to the affected area.
Medicinal Parts
dried leaf
Selection & Storage
1. Store in a well‑ventilated, dry place, protected from moisture, mold, and insects. 2. Keep in an airtight container, protected from light, to prevent degradation of active components.