Hai Tong Pi
Erythrina variegata L. var. orientalis (L.) Merr.
☯ TCM Properties
Dispels Wind-Dampness; Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals; Alleviates Pain; Kills Parasites and Stops Itching
Botanical Description
Erythrina variegata, the Indian coral tree or tiger's-claw, is a medium-sized deciduous tree of the family Fabaceae native to coastal forests of tropical Asia, Polynesia and northern Australia, reaching 15-20 m in height with a stout trunk armed with short, conical, black prickles and a spreading crown. The trifoliolate leaves have broadly rhombic to ovate leaflets 8-20 cm long, the terminal leaflet the largest, glabrous and bright green. The tree flowers when leafless in the dry season, producing dense terminal racemes of brilliant scarlet, papilionaceous flowers 5-8 cm long whose large standard petal gives the inflorescence a flame-like appearance. The fruit is a cylindrical, constricted pod 15-30 cm long, containing several dark red, kidney-shaped seeds. The medicinal bark is greyish-brown, fissured and prickled, with a slightly bitter, acrid taste.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Hai Tong Pi (erythrina bark, coral bean bark) is a bitter, pungent, neutral herb used in Chinese medicine to expel Wind-Damp from the channels and collaterals, relieving joint pain and stiffness. It addresses bi syndrome affecting the knees and lower back with swelling and restricted movement. Its anthelmintic properties are applied for intestinal parasites, and topically it treats skin conditions including eczema and pruritus from Wind-Damp.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.