Suan Jiang
Unknown
☯ TCM Properties
Clear Heat, detoxifies, benefit the throat and transforms Phlegm; Clears fevers and promotes diuresis; Calms the Shen, clears vision and tonifies Qi
Botanical Description
Physalis alkekengi L. (Chinese lantern plant, strawberry-groundcherry) is a herbaceous perennial in the Solanaceae, 40-80 cm tall, with creeping rhizomes giving rise to erect, slightly angled, sparsely hairy stems. Leaves are alternate or paired at the upper nodes, broadly ovate to rhomboid, 5-15 cm long, with entire to coarsely sinuate-dentate margins, an acute apex, and a wedge-shaped to truncate base. Solitary flowers borne in the leaf axils are nodding, with a white, broadly campanulate, 5-lobed corolla 1-2 cm across. As the fruit develops, the calyx enlarges into the distinctive papery, ovoid, bright orange-red "lantern" 3-5 cm long that encloses a single globose, smooth, scarlet berry. Native to Eurasia from central Europe across temperate Asia to Japan; naturalised widely.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
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.