Smithiae Sensitivae Herba
Aliases：Shuǐ Lǎo Hǔ (Water Tiger), Shuǐ Bǎi Zú (Water Centipede), Huáng Huā Er (Little Yellow Flower) — all from Guangxi Medicinal Plant List.
Tián Chún Wū Yíng Yì is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the dried whole plant of Smithia sensitiva Ait. (also known as Smithia sensitiva), a species belonging to the genus Smithia in the family Leguminosae. This plant is an annual diffuse herb, up to 1 meter in length, much branched, with slender stems and even-pinnate compound leaves. It commonly grows by field edges and in low-lying damp areas. It is distributed in Fujian, Taiwan, Hunan, Guangdong, Hainan, Guangxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, and other regions. It has the effects of detoxifying, reducing swelling and relieving cough.
Efficacy & Actions
Detoxifies, reduces swelling, and relieves cough.
Indications
Indicated for leptospirosis, carbuncles and sores, snakebites, and cough.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: decoct in water, 15–30 g (dried product), or 60–120 g for fresh herb. For external use: apply an appropriate amount of fresh herb, crushed and applied topically to the affected area.
Selected Formulas
For leptospirosis (National Exhibition of New TCM Therapies Data Compilation) Take 60–120g each of Tianchun Wuyi (a local herb), Hanliancao (Eclipta prostrata), and Jinhua Cao (a local herb), 30–60g of Tanggecai (a local herb), and 120–240g of Xiye Mantianxing (a local herb). Use fresh whole plants. Take one dose daily, decoct in water and divide into 3–4 doses for oral administration. Continue for more than 10 days. For severe fever and muscle pain, add 30–60g of Menggusuo (a local herb); for scanty dark urine, add 30–60g of Cheqiancao (Plantago); for weak patients with cold pattern, add 30g of Paiqianshu (a local herb).
Medicinal Parts
The dried whole plant of Smithia sensitiva Ait., a plant belonging to the family Leguminosae.
Selection & Storage
Store in a ventilated, dry place, protected from moisture and mold.
