"What Are the Advantages and Purposes Served by the Old Melon Shell?"
Old Melon Shell as Medicine
Old melon shell, also known as ground vine melon, boasts medicinal properties with a range of benefits. It effectively clears virtual fire, replenishes qi, stimulates saliva production, and enhances lactation. Its primary applications encompass treating virtual fire-induced inflammation, sore throat, improving qi and yin deficiencies, alleviating mental fatigue and forgetfulness, addressing virtual irritability and thirst, dizziness, insomnia, and other related symptoms.Scientifically, ground vine melon refers to the entire grass of Cynanchum thesioides or Cynanchum cheliodonium, belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family's Cynanchum genus. It possesses a mild nature and a sweet flavor, offering the aforementioned therapeutic effects. Primarily used to treat virtual fire inflammation and sore throat, it also aids in improving qi and yin deficiencies, mental fatigue and forgetfulness, virtual irritability and thirst, dizziness, insomnia, and other symptoms. Additionally, it is beneficial for postpartum physical weakness and insufficient milk production.
To harness these effects, ground vine melon can be decocted for internal consumption or chewed fresh. When treating qi and blood deficiencies, it is often combined with astragalus membranaceus. For cerebral神经衰弱 (neuralgia or weakness), the juice extracted from decocting ground vine melon can be used to prepare egg tea. Furthermore, it has external applications in treating warts.
Given that the side effects and contraindications of ground vine melon are not fully understood, it is advisable to consult a qualified physician before using it for medicinal purposes. Individuals with a history of allergies to ground vine melon should avoid it to prevent allergic reactions such as rashes, skin redness, itching, and respiratory difficulties.
