Herb Central

Herbs & Botanicals



 |  A  |  B  |  C  |  D  |  E  |  F  |  G  |  H  |  I  |  J  |  K  |  L  |  M  |  N  |  O  |  P  |  Q  |  R  |  S  |  T  |  U  |  V  |  W  |  X  |  Z  | 

Benincasa Peel (dong gua pi)

What is benincasa peel? What is it used for?

Also known as the winter melon or the Chinese waxgourd, benincasa is a type of herb native to China. The benincasa is similar in appearance to a small watermelon, with bright, green skin. The fruit usually ripens in the late summer or early autumn; the peel is removed after the fruit has ripened and allowed to dry in the sun.

In traditional Chinese medicine, benincasa peel has sweet and slightly cold properties, and is associated with the Lung and Small Intestine meridians. The peel contains a variety of chemicals and nutrients, including vitamins B1, B2 and C, organic acids, starch, and inorganic elements as sodium and potassium. Its qualities make benincasa useful in promoting urination, especially when a person has edema caused by humidity. It also helps treat diarrhea. It is sometimes used with phaseolus seed and poria as part of a larger formula.

How much benincasa peel should I take?

The typical dose of benincasa peel is between 1.5 and 4.5 grams, powdered and used as a decoction. Larger doses (15-30 grams) can be used as necessary.

What forms of benincasa peel are available?

Sheets of dried benincasa peel can be found at some Asian markets and specialty stores. Powdered benincasa peel is also available at some herbal shops.

What can happen if I take too much benincasa peel? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

As of this writing, there are no known side-effects or drug interactions with benincasa peel. As always, however, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking benincasa peel or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.

References

  1. Benincasa peel. HerbalShop Chinese herb database. Available online.
  2. Bown D. Encyclopaedia of Herbs and their Uses. London: Dorling Kindersley, 1995.
  3. Chevallier A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. London: Dorling Kindersley, 1996.
  4. Dong Gua Pi. Available online.
  5. Duke JA, Ayensu ES. Medicinal Plants of China Reference Publications, Inc. 1985
Trending
Women's Health
A Harmonious Point Combination to Treat Constipation During Pregnancy
A Harmonious Point Combination to Treat Constipation During Pregnancy

Acupuncture can provide constipation relief while maintaining a healthy pregnancy. A combination of San Jiao 6 (Zhi Gou) and Stomach 36 (Zu San Li) is excellent for treating constipation during pregnancy. San Jiao 6 is the shu-stream and fire point of the San Jiao channel. It can regulate the qi of the three jiaos, unblock the qi of the fu organs, descend counterflow fire, open the orifices, activate the collaterals to disperse stagnation, and eliminate distention to stop pain.

Jacky Zhu, MAOM, LAc
Acupuncture Techniques
Acupuncture’s Role in Stimulating the Vagus Nerve
Acupuncture’s Role in Stimulating the Vagus Nerve

One of the longest nerves in the body is known as the vagus nerve (VN). The VN is the 10th pair of cranial nerves that originates at the brain stem in the medulla oblongata. This nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a part of the ANS. Research suggests ear acupuncture can activate the VN.

Amanda Archuleta, DAOM, LAc
Your Practice / Business
Putting Mitochondrial Health at the Center of Clinical Care
Putting Mitochondrial Health at the Center of Clinical Care

Mitochondria, the cell’s “powerhouses,” generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), regulate oxidative stress, and coordinate vital cellular functions. When mitochondrial health declines, patients may experience widespread effects, from impaired muscle recovery to cognitive decline. The mitochondrial theory of aging even suggests progressive mitochondrial deterioration is a central mechanism in chronic disease and systemic frailty. Photobiomodulation (PBM), the therapeutic use of red and near-infrared light, directly targets mitochondria to restore energy metabolism.

 |  Digital Exclusive
Phil Harrington, DC, CMLSO, FASLMS