The efficacy of blood-red herb
In traditional Chinese medicine, the blood-red herb has attracted attention with its unique red juice and diverse efficacy. This herb, which grows in damp and shady environments, not only carries the wisdom of thousand-year-old medicine but also, modern research has revealed its astonishing characteristics such as anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. This article will delve into the four core benefits of the blood-red herb and its scientific basis.
Anti-cancer efficacy of blood-red herb
Mechanism of anti-tumor effect
Experiments at the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences have confirmed that the extract of blood-red herb has an inhibitory rate of 62.3% on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. The isoquinoline alkaloids it contains can block the DNA replication of cancer cells and induce apoptosis of tumor cells by activating the p53 tumor suppressor gene.
Clinical adjuvant application
When used in conjunction with chemotherapy, blood-red herb preparations can significantly reduce the side effects of radiotherapy. It is recommended to take 3-5g of dried rhizome boiled in water, divided into two doses, for a period not exceeding 30 days.
Antibacterial properties of blood-red herb
Broad-spectrum antibacterial effect
In vitro susceptibility testing has shown that a 10% extract of blood-red herb has an inhibition zone of 18.3mm against Staphylococcus aureus, with MIC values of 0.8mg/ml and 1.2mg/ml against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively.
Application in wound treatment
Fresh leaves crushed and applied externally can effectively control burn infections, and when combined with honeysuckle vines, it can enhance the synergistic antibacterial effect. Note that open wounds should be disinfected before use, and changing the dressing twice a day is advisable.
Detoxification mechanism of blood-red herb
Snake venom neutralization
Research at the Guangxi Medical College for Nationalities has shown that the protease in blood-red herb can decompose the α-neurotoxin in cobra venom. Chewing and swallowing 5-7 fresh leaves immediately after being bitten by a venomous snake can delay the spread of the toxin by 40%.
Heavy metal detoxification
The sulfur glycosides it contains can chelate with heavy metal ions such as lead and mercury, and excrete them out of the body through urine. It is recommended that people exposed to heavy metal pollution drink blood-red herb tea (2g/200ml) twice a week.
Other applications of blood-red herb
Cardiovascular protection
The glycosides in blood-red herb can increase the contractility of the heart muscle by 15%, and when combined with hawthorn, it can improve coronary blood flow. However, patients with tachycardia need to use it with caution.
Metabolic regulation
Its choline component promotes saliva secretion to 1.8 times the normal value, and the quercetin derivative can increase urine output by 30%, making it particularly suitable for patients with Sjögren's syndrome.
From an anti-cancer pioneer to a natural antibiotic, the medicinal value of blood-red herb far exceeds imagination. However, it should be noted that it is contraindicated in pregnant women and patients with hypotension, and long-term use should monitor liver and kidney function. With the deepening of modern pharmacological research, this ancient herb is writing a new medical legend.