Rangoon creeper (shi jun zi)

Combretum indicum (syn. Quisqualis indica)

Traditionally attributed effects: was used against roundworms and for poor digestion in children.

Safety notes

Can cause hiccups, nausea and dizziness. Not with a cold, weak spleen or diarrhoea. Have worms in children treated by your GP. 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 'substances against parasites'. Shi jun zi is named after Guo Shijun, a physician of the Song period who used it against roundworms in children. The seeds are eaten roasted; too many cause hiccups.

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: sweet, warm
Meridians: spleen, stomach

Attributed effects

For worms, especially roundworms, and for malnutrition and digestive complaints in children with poor appetite, a distended, painful abdomen and general weakness.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 6–12 g a day, usually in a decoction.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →