Flos Inulae
Source
The capitulum of Inuki japonica Thunb., family Compositae.
Characteristics
Inflorescence semi-spherical, about 1 cm in diameter; with 5 verticils
of involucre at the lower part and covered by white hairs. Flowers yellow,
ray
flowers liguliform in 1-2 layers, central flowers tubular and numerous
Achene oblong, numerous, covered with reddish or greyish white coronules.
Salty in taste, warm in nature, slightly toxic, and attributive to lung
and stomach channels.
Indication
1. Eliminate phlegm, promote diuresis and open the inhibited lung-energy:
For phlegm-retention or phlegm-dampness syndrome with productive cough
and difficulty in expectoration, or chronic phlegm-syndrome with cough,
thick expectoration, chest upset and dyspnea, or dyspneic cough of wind-cold
type, especially those with dysufla; also for ascites.
2.
Decend the adverse rising of stomach-energy and relieve vomiting and eructation:
For phlegm-dampness syndrome with vomiting and belching, usually used
together with Haematitum and Rhizoma Ftnellwe. In addition, single use
of its decoction is applicable to acute lumber sprain.
Pharmacological
Action
1. Its alcoholic extract is a diuretic in experimental rabbits.
2. The decoction inhibits the growth of Staphylocoecus aureus and pneumococcus
in vitro.
Administration Decoction: 3-9g.