The Effects and Functions of Humulus scandens
Humulus scandens, a wild vine plant widespread across the country, has been documented for its medicinal properties in ancient texts such as "Tang Ben Cao" and "Ben Cao Gang Mu". Modern research has found that the flavonoids and polysaccharides it contains show unique value in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as in regulating metabolism. This article systematically analyzes the medicinal potential of this common plant through scientific experimental data and clinical application cases.
Analysis of the Four Core Medicinal Effects of Humulus scandens
1. Natural Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Experiments at Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine show that a 70% ethanol extract of Humulus scandens can inhibit Staphylococcus aureus by 92%, with its contained quercetin exerting antibacterial effects by destroying the bacterial biofilm. Clinically, applying mashed fresh stems and leaves externally can speed up the healing of wounds and reduce the risk of suppuration.
2. Systematic Application for Clearing Heat and Detoxifying
For cases of lung heat and cough, the combination of Humulus scandens and Houttuynia cordata can enhance the expectorant effect. Comparative tests at the Zhejiang Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine show that a compound preparation of Humulus scandens and Honeysuckle vines (3:2) reduces fever time by 37% compared to a single preparation. For patients with eczema, using a decoction for sitz baths can relieve itching with an effective rate of 81.6%.
3. Dual Mechanism of Diuretic and Detumingescence
The chlorogenic acid in Humulus scandens can promote the excretion of sodium ions, and when combined with Malva verticillata, it can increase urine output by 2-3 times. Its potassium ion retention characteristic (reaching 3.2mg/g) effectively prevents electrolyte imbalance, especially suitable for adjuvant treatment of chronic kidney disease patients. External application to swollen areas requires the combination with Mirabilite to enhance osmotic pressure.
4. Innovative Application for Antitussive and Anti-asthmatic Effects
The polysaccharides in Humulus scandens can improve airway hyperreactivity by inhibiting the IL-4 inflammatory factor. In the adjuvant treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, a triple formula composed of Humulus scandens, Radix stemonae, and Cortex lycii reduces the frequency of nocturnal cough by 64%. The latest research finds that its extract has a regulatory effect on the ACE2 receptor, providing a new approach for the treatment of respiratory diseases.
As a plant that is both food and medicine, Humulus scandens' effects on antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, clearing heat and detoxifying, diuretic, and antitussive properties have been verified by modern medicine. When using, it should be noted that the fresh plant juice may cause contact dermatitis, and it is recommended to use after processing. With the advancement of component isolation technology, the application of Humulus scandens in the fields of metabolic syndrome, tumor adjuvant therapy, etc., is worth looking forward to.