Overview of the efficacy and functions of Jiujie tea

Jiujie tea is a traditional Chinese medicinal material that has the functions of clearing away heat and detoxifying, reducing swelling and relieving pain, activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis. It is often used to treat sore throat, bruises, rheumatism and other diseases. Its main active ingredients include flavonoids, volatile oils and polysaccharides. Modern research has also found that it has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and other effects. The following is an explanation from three aspects: traditional application, modern research and precautions.

Traditional applications and core functions

In the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, Jiujie tea belongs to the lung and liver meridians and is often used for diseases caused by exogenous wind-heat or damp-heat. For example:

There are also records of people using its rhizomes to make wine to help relieve chronic pain ("Lingnan Medicine Collection").

Modern research and scientific verification

Recent studies have shown that the ethanol extract of Jiujie tea has an inhibitory effect on common pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2018). Its antioxidant activity is close to that of vitamin C and may delay cell aging. But please note:

• Pregnant women and people with allergies should use with caution
• Long-term use requires medical advice

Summary and Notes

Jiujie tea has certain value as an auxiliary therapy, but it cannot replace regular medical treatment. Syndrome differentiation and treatment are required when using it, and excessive use with cold and cooling drugs should be avoided. It is recommended to purchase regular processed products under the guidance of a pharmacist.

Cited sources: 1. "Chinese Materia Medica" 2. "Lingnan Ethnic Medicine Chronicles" by Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 3. Li Shizhen's "Compendium of Materia Medica" mentions its other name "Nine-Headed Lion Grass"