Efficacy and role of Houttuynia cordata
As a characteristic plant with the same origin of medicine and food, Houttuynia cordata has long been known as a "natural antibiotic" in traditional Chinese medicine classics. Modern research has confirmed that this herb with a special smell contains unique ingredients such as houttuynia and quercitrin, and its medicinal value has been extended to many health fields such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune regulation. 1. The core mechanism of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory of Houttuynia cordata 1.1 The broad spectrum antibacterial active ingredient houttuynia cordata shows significant inhibitory effect on common pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and (F-Y) Streptococci by blocking the bacterial DNA replication cycle. Experimental data shows that its antibacterial effect is comparable to that of some synthetic antibiotics. 1.2 The latest research on antiviral clinical applications has found that Houttuynia cordata extract can inhibit the neuraminidase activity of influenza virus and show unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases. Medical institutions often use it as an aerosol for the treatment of throat inflammation. 2. Immunoregulatory function of Houttuynia cordata 2.1 Enhanced white blood cell activity The polysaccharide component of Houttuynia cordata can increase the phagocytic efficiency of neutrophils by 40%, and significantly increase the serum immunoglobulin level. This two-way regulation makes it a natural immune enhancer. 3. The role of clearing heat and diuretic system 3.1 The classic prescription formed by regulating lung heat syndrome, combined with Rhizoma Anemarrhenae and Radix Scutellariae, can reduce the level of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-6. Clinical data shows that the effective rate for acute bronchitis can reach 78.6%. 3.2 Diuretic and detoxification mechanism. Its potassium salt component cooperates with quercitrin to promote the activity of the sodium and potassium pump. When used in conjunction with longrass rhizome, urine volume can be increased by 2-3 times, making it especially suitable for damp-heat urinary infections.
Modern pharmacological research continues to reveal the scientific connotation of the traditional effects of Houttuynia cordata. From antibacterial and anti-inflammatory to immune regulation, from clearing heat and relieving throat to diuretic and detoxification, this natural herbal medicine is being integrated into the health care system as a source of medicine and food. It is recommended to reasonably use fresh products or preparations according to physical characteristics under professional guidance.