Description:
Alpinia Oxyphylla is a species of flowering plants in the genus alpine in the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. Native to Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, the plant is widely found in tropical and subtropical climates. It can grow up to 3 meter in height. Alpinia oxyphylla fruits (Chinese: Yi Zhi Ren, 益智子) is used in traditional Chinese medicine (CTM) as kidney enhancer (it promotes vitality and sexual energy), it also strengthens the stomach and spleen.
Odour & Nature:
Pungent, warm-natured,
Channels:
Alpinia oxyphylla fruits functions by influencing the spleen and kidney.
Health Benefits of Alpinia Oxyphylla Fruits & Formulas:
Boosting Kidney Function
A decotion of alpinia oxyphylla fruits is taken to treat impotence and premature ejaculation. [Ancient Prescription]
Antitumor
The water extracts of alpinia oxyphylla fruits is observed to be moderately active in inhibiting the growth of sarcomas with little side effects.
Increasing Metabolism
Animal experiments show that compound preparation of alpinia oxyphylla fruits (益智糖浆) is associated with the increased levels of Dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE, also called noradrenaline) and cAMP in mice which enhances metabolism and immunity.
The Ben Cao Medical Book (also known as Compendium of Materia Medica or Ben Cao Gang Mu; Chinese: 本草纲目) is the most famous and comprehensive medical book ever written in the history of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Compiled and written by Li Shi-zhen (1518~1593), a medical expert of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) over 27 years.
The Ben Cao Medical Book records and describes all the plants, animals, minerals, and other objects that were believed to have medicinal properties in TCM. The book reflects the pharmaceutical achievements and developments of East Asia before the 16th century. On the basis of his predecessors’ achievements in the pharmacological studies, Li contributed further by supplementing and rectifying many past mistakes and misconception in relate to nature of many medicinal substances and causes of various illnesses. Charles Darwin, originator of the biological theory of evolution, regards the book as the “ancient Chinese encyclopedia”.
Disclaimer: The Ben Cao Medical Book is translated by ChinaAbout.net . The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of CTM knowledge and information from the research and experience from the author Li Shi-zhen. Kindly be alert that the CTM knowledge and ancient formulas given above are likely NOT medically proven and may contain misconceptions.