Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai
Aliases：Mù Lǐ Zhī (literally "Wooden Plum Twig"). (This is an alternative name for Mù Guā Zhī, i.e., the twigs and leaves of Chaenomeles speciosa / Common Floweringquince.)
Mù Guā Zhī is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the dried twigs and leaves of Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai (also known as Chaenomeles lagenaria or Common Floweringquince), a plant belonging to the family Rosaceae. It was first recorded in Mingyi Bielu (The Miscellaneous Records of Famous Physicians).
Efficacy & Actions
Dispels dampness and relaxes tendons.
Indications
Cholera‑like vomiting and diarrhea, abdominal pain with muscle spasms (tendon spasms).
Modern Pharmacology
Modern research has shown that the twigs of Chaenomeles speciosa contain various triterpenoid compounds and exhibit biological activities such as anti‑inflammatory effects. Its fruits are commonly used to treat diarrhea, vomiting, myalgia, and common colds. Various bioactive triterpenoids have also been isolated from the twigs of the related species Chaenomeles sinensis.
Ingredients
The twigs of Chaenomeles speciosa contain various chemical components, mainly including triterpenoid compounds and others.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: decoct in water, 10–15 g.
Contraindications
Use with caution during pregnancy.
Selected Formulas
For cholera-like vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle cramps (empirical formula) Take the branches, leaves, bark, and roots of Chaenomeles speciosa (Mugua), decoct in water, and drink the liquid. For infantile heat dysentery (Qianjin Fang) Take Mugua leaves, decoct in water and drink.
Medicinal Parts
It is the twigs and leaves of Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai, also known as Common Floweringquince, a plant belonging to the family Rosaceae.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and insects.
