Ramulus Taxilli
Source
The branch and leaf of Taxillus chinensis (DC.) Danser or Viscum coloratum
(Komar.) Nakai, family Loranthaceae.
Characteristics
A
parasitic shrub about 1 meter high. Stem 0.5-1.0 cm in diameter. Young
branches tomentose. Leaves ovate to elliptical, apex obtuse, base rounded,
underside covered with red-brown downs. Raceme and flower buds red, with
lanceolate lobes on the corolla tube. Fruit oblong. Prepared as short
segments. Bitter in taste, mild in nature, and attributive to liver and
kidney channels.
Indication
l.Expel wind-dampness and tonify the liver and kidney: For r% rheumatism
with hypofunction of the liver and kidney manifested as weakness of back
and knees and flaccidity of extremities.
2. Nourish blood and calm the fetus: For threatened abortion due to hypofunction
of liver and kidney.
3. Lower blood pressure: For hypertension, especially for those with deficiency
of liver and kidney. Recently used for angina pectoris and arrhythmia.
Pharmacological
Action
1.
Lowering blood pressure in anesthetized dogs and cats by gastric infusion
in a dose of 0.4-0.5g/kg.
2. Dilating coronary arteries and slowing heart rate.
3. Counteracting the exciting effect of caffeine.
4. LD50 in mice is 11.24g/kg intraperitoneally.
Administration
Decoction:
10-30g. Instant granules: Half package (equivalent to 20g of crude drugs)
bid.
Ampoule (5 ml containing 10g of crude drugs): 10 ml added in 50% glucose
20 ml IV once daily.