Ramulus Wallichii
seu Puberulii
Source
The stem and branch of Piper wallichii (Miq.) Hand.-Mazz. var. hupehense
(C. DC.) Hand.-Mazz., or Piper puberulum (Benth.) Maxim., family Piperaceae.
Characteristics
The dried stem ovoid, greyish brown, with longitudinal striae and enlarged
nodes. Cross section with vascular bundles arranged radially; xylem porous,
with a greyish brown pith in the middle. leaves elliptical, with fragrant
odour. Acrid in taste, warm in nature, and attributive to liver, spleen
and heart channels.
Indication
Expel wind, dredge the meridians, activate the circulation of vital energy
and blood, strengthen the tendons and bones, relieve pain: For arthralgia
of wind-cold-dampness type, weakness and soreness of the waist and lower
extremities, especially those with deficiency-cold syndrome, and also
for trauma. Wallichii is also used for angina pectoris, cerebral thrombosis
and embolism, and Puberulum for biliary colic and stomachache.
Pharmacological
Action
1. Wallichll can increase myocardial trophic blood volume, improve the
collateral circulation of ischemic myocardium, and increase the hypoxic
tolerance of myocardium.
2. Puberulum exerts an analgesic effect, relieves acetylcholine-induced
ileal spasm in guine~pigs, and dilates the cerebral blood vessels.
Administration
Decoction:
3-9g.
Ampoule (2 ml containing 8g of crude drugs of Wallichii): 2 ml IM once
or twice daily; or 4-8 ml added in 10% glucose solution 500 ml IV for
drips.