This product is the dried root bark of the Chinese tallowtree (Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.), a plant of the Euphorbiaceae family. It is cultivated along roadsides, field ridges, or hillsides, and is also used as a street tree. It is widely distributed, ranging from Shandong in the north to Taiwan, Guangdong, and Yunnan in the south.

The seeds of the Chinese tallowtree root-bark can be used to extract wax and oil, which are used to make candles, soap, and paint. The leaves can be used as a black dye. Both the leaves and root bark are used in traditional medicine to reduce swelling, remove toxins, promote diuresis, and act as a laxative, as well as to kill worms. The bark and leaves can be processed to extract tannin, with a content of about 10%. The wood is tough and fine-grained, light yellow in color, and does not warp or crack, making it suitable for carving tools. The Chinese tallowtree grows rapidly and is an important greening species. In autumn, the tree turns orange-yellow or red, making it quite visually appealing.

bubble_chart Properties and Meridians

Bitter, slightly warm, slightly poisonous.

bubble_chart Efficacy

Promoting diuresis, eliminating stagnation, killing worms, and removing toxins.

bubble_chart Indications

Treats edema, distension, urinary and fecal retention, acute perforative appendicitis, hepatitis, nephrotic syndrome; eczema, scabies, rubella, poisonous snake bites (for external use).

bubble_chart Usage and Dosage

9～15g.

bubble_chart Cautions and Contraindications

Those with a weak constitution should avoid taking it.

bubble_chart Processing and Storage

1. Purification: Wash clean (Pharmacopoeia 85).
2. Cutting: Wash clean, moisten thoroughly, cut into thick slices, and dry in the sun (Pharmacopoeia 77).

bubble_chart Modern Pharmacology

The root bark contains Pricklyash Peel; the leaves contain isoquercitrin, tannins, and Chinese tallowtree root-bark bitter substances; the seeds contain fatty oil, which includes Windmill Palm acid, lauric acid, Nutmeg fatty acid, and pearlescent fatty acid.