Claviceps purpurea (Fr.) Tul. / Claviceps microcephala (Wallr.) Tul.
Aliases：Hēi Mài Wū Mǐ (literally "Black Rye Black Rice" / "Black Rye Smut") and Zǐ Mài Jiǎo (literally "Purple Rye Horn"). (These are alternative names for Mài Jiǎo, i.e., Ergot / Claviceps spp.)
Mài Jiǎo (Ergot) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the sclerotium of the fungi Claviceps purpurea (Fr.) Tul. and Claviceps microcephala (Wallr.) Tul., belonging to the family Clavicipitaceae. As it contains various potent alkaloids with intense effects and toxicity, it must be used under the strict guidance of a qualified physician. It was first recorded in Guoyao de Yaolixue (Pharmacology of Chinese Medicines).
Efficacy & Actions
Promotes uterine contraction to stop bleeding and relieves pain.
Indications
Postpartum hemorrhage and migraine.
Modern Pharmacology
Uterine stimulant effect: Ergot alkaloids such as ergotamine and ergometrine have a stimulating effect on the uterus, most pronounced in the pregnant uterus. Ergometrine is the most potent, acting directly on uterine smooth muscle; large doses can cause sustained tetanic contraction, compressing blood vessels to stop bleeding. Effects on the nervous system: Small doses of ergot can stimulate the medullary centers; large doses can cause medullary paralysis. Ergotamine can enhance the sedative and hypnotic effects of barbiturates and morphine. Effects on the cardiovascular system: Ergotamine constricts peripheral vascular smooth muscle. Large doses of ergotoxine can block α‑adrenergic receptors.
Ingredients
Ergot contains various alkaloids, with a total content of approximately 9.4%. They are mainly classified into three groups: Ergotoxine group: Amide derivatives of lysergic acid, mainly including ergometrine, ergotamine, ergosine, ergocryptine, ergocornine, etc. Ergotinine group: Amide derivatives of isolysergic acid, mainly including ergometrinine, ergotaminine, etc. Clavine group: Mainly including agroclavine, elymoclavine, and penniclavine. In addition, it also contains ergosterol, ergothioneine, secalonic acids, as well as sugars and fatty oils.
Usage & Dosage
This product is a strictly controlled toxic substance under national regulations and must be used under the guidance of a physician. Common dosage forms include fluidextract, tablets, and injections. For oral administration: as a fluidextract, 0.5–2 ml each time, 3–4 times daily; for a large dose, 4 ml once, up to 12 ml daily. Use should not exceed 2 consecutive days.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in pregnant women, women in labor, and when the placenta has not been completely expelled. Use with caution in patients with liver disease or peripheral vascular disease. This product is toxic. Accidental ingestion often causes thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, cold extremities, pallor, visual and auditory disturbances; severe cases may result in hallucinations, convulsions, coma, and death. Long‑term or excessive use may lead to ergotism, characterized by vasoconstriction, gangrene, or neurological symptoms.
Medicinal Parts
It is the sclerotium of Claviceps purpurea (Fr.) Tul. or Claviceps microcephala (Wallr.) Tul., fungi belonging to the family Clavicipitaceae.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container.
