Ramulus et
Folium
Cephalotaxi Fortunei
Source
The branch and leaf of Cephalotaxus fortunel Hook. f. family Cephalotaxaceae.
Characteristics
A tree. The branchiets opposite, purple-brown, with long and transverse
lenticels. Winter buds tristichous and terminal. Leaves spiral and bifarious;
blades linear and lenceolate, midrib evident, with two white stomatic
bands on the dorsal side. Bitter and astrirgent in taste, slightly cold
in nature, and attributive to liver channel.
Indication
Anticarcinogenic: Mainly used for acute non-lymphocytic leukemia such
as acute myelocytic leukemia, acute monocytic leukemia, polycythemia vera,
erythroleukemia, etc.; also for chronic myelocytic leukemia, malignant
lymphoma, etc.
Pharmacological
Action
1. Harringtonine, homo-harringtomne, iso-harringtonine and deoxy-harringtonine
are the anticarcinogenic components, which interfere the cell growth and
mitotic activity, damage and inhibit the growth of S-stage cells and inhibit
the synthesis of DNA. Harringtonine and homo-harringtonine are more effective
for the interference of mitotic activity.
2. Inhibiting the hematopoietic cells in bone marrow.
3. Causing irritant effect on digestive tract.
Administration
Harringtonine injection: 1-6mg added in 5-10% glucose 500 ml IV for drips
daily, 5-7 days as one course, 1-3 courses may be applied at an 1-2 weeks
intervals; homo-harringtonine, same dosage as harringtonine.