Chinese quince (mu gua)

Chaenomeles speciosa

Traditionally attributed effects: relaxes tendons and muscles in cramps and rheumatic pain and drives dampness from the stomach.

Safety notes

Not with yin deficiency or external diseases. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Fruit. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that expel wind and dampness'. The fragrant fruits (mu gua) are used for calf cramps and rheumatic pain with damp. In Europe the shrub is grown as an ornamental for its red spring flowers.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Chinese materia medica

Nature and taste: sour, warm
Meridians: liver, spleen

Attributed effects

For pain from wind and dampness, especially in the lower back and legs with cramps, and dampness in the stomach with abdominal cramp and calf cramp.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 3–9 g a day, usually in a decoction. Used in Chinese martial arts and qi gong to increase suppleness.

Combinations

With stephania, wei ling xian and dang gui for stiff joints

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Powder and kitchen
Formulas: Shu jin san

Sources

All herbs from Asia →