Daphniphyllum twig and leaf
Aliases：Lǎo Hǔ ěr (literally "Tiger’s Ear" — named for the leaf shape resembling a tiger's ear), Nán Lǐng Hǔ Pí Nán (literally "Nanling Tiger‑Skin Nanmu" — named for its distribution in the Nanling Mountains and its bark texture resembling tiger skin), Jiǎ Nán Mù (literally "False Nanmu" — named for its wood resembling that of true Nanmu (Phoebe spp.)), Niú ěr Líng (literally "Ox‑Ear Bell" — another name referring to its leaf shape), and Zhū Hàn Mù (literally "Pig's Chin Wood" — named for the shape of its fruit or leaf base resembling a pig's jaw). These are all alternative names for 牛耳枫枝叶 (Niú ěr fēng zhī yè)， i.e., the dried twigs and leaves of Daphniphyllum calycinum Benth.
Niú ěr fēng zhī yè (Ox‑ear Daphniphyllum Twig and Leaf) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the dried twigs and leaves of Daphniphyllum calycinum Benth., a plant belonging to the family Daphniphyllaceae. It was first recorded in Luchuan Bencao (Luchuan Materia Medica).
Efficacy & Actions
Dispels wind, relieves pain, removes toxicity, and reduces swelling.
Indications
Rheumatic bone pain, sores, carbuncles and toxic swellings, fractures and traumatic injuries, and snake bites. In addition, it is also used in some regions for common cold with fever, tonsillitis, and other conditions.
Usage & Dosage
This product is mainly used externally. Usage: Take an appropriate amount, decoct in water, and wash the affected area; or mash and apply externally. Dosage: For external use, use an appropriate amount. There is also a clinical reference dosage for oral administration of 12–18 g, but this should be taken under medical supervision.
Contraindications
Contraindicated during pregnancy. This product is slightly toxic and should be used under the guidance of a physician.
Selected Formulas
For snake bites or fractures (empirical formula) Take fresh leaves of Niu Er Feng, crush them, and apply externally. For traumatic injuries, boils and toxic swellings, venomous snake bites, and burns and scalds (empirical formula) Take Niu Er Feng leaves, decoct in water and wash the affected area, or crush and apply externally.
Medicinal Parts
Dried twigs and leaves.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and insects.
