Pieris japonica (Thunb.) D. Don ex G. Don
Aliases：Qǐn Mù (recorded in Bencao Shiyi — Supplements to Materia Medica, literally "Qin Wood"), Rìběn Mǎ Zuì Mù (recorded in Zhongguo Gaodeng Zhiwu Tujian — Illustrated Handbook of Higher Plants of China, literally "Japanese Pieris" / "Japanese Horse‑Stupor Wood"), Pào Pào Huā (literally "Bubble Flower"), and Hóng Là Zhú Shù (literally "Red Candle Tree" — used in Zhejiang). (These are all alternative names for Mǎ Zuì Mù, i.e., Pieris japonica / Japanese Pieris.)
Mǎ Zuì Mù (Pieris Leaf) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the leaf of Pieris japonica (Thunb.) D. Don ex G. Don, a plant belonging to the genus Pieris of the family Ericaceae. It grows in sparse forests on slopes, at forest edges, and in thickets beside streams and valleys at altitudes of 800–1,200 meters. It is named for the fact that horses that accidentally consume its branches and leaves become intoxicated and appear as if in a drunken stupor.
Efficacy & Actions
Kills parasites.
Indications
Scabies.
Modern Pharmacology
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity: Diterpenoid compounds isolated from the leaves of Pieris japonica exhibit acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Immunosuppressive activity: Phenolic compounds isolated from the leaves significantly inhibit the proliferation of T and B cells in vitro. Analgesic effect: Diterpenoid compounds from Pieris japonica have analgesic activity.
Ingredients
Diterpenoid compounds: The plant is rich in diterpenoid components. Eight diterpenoid compounds have been isolated and identified from the leaves of Pieris japonica. Phenolic constituents: Eight phenolic constituents have been isolated and identified from the leaves. Other components: The leaves contain asebotoxin, asebetin, asebouercitrin, taraxerol, etc. Active components: The main active components are terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, among which tetracyclic diterpenoids have antiviral, antitumor, and other pharmacological activities.
Usage & Dosage
For topical use: take an appropriate amount, decoct in water for washing, and apply the residue to the affected area.
Contraindications
Contraindicated during pregnancy. This product is highly toxic and should not be taken internally. (It is for external use only.)
Selected Formulas
For scabies (National Compilation of Chinese Herbal Medicine) Take an appropriate amount of leaves of Mazui Mu (Pieris japonica), decoct in water, and wash or apply to the affected area.
Medicinal Parts
Leaf.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and insects.
