Daphniphyllum calycinum Benth.
Aliases：Tǔ Yā Dǎn Zǐ (literally "Earth Brucea Fruit" — named for its similar appearance to Yādǎnzǐ, Brucea javanica, but with different properties; "tǔ" indicates a local substitute), Yáng Shǐ Zǐ (literally "Sheep Droppings Fruit" — named for its fruit shape and color resembling sheep droppings), Jiǎ Yā Dǎn Zǐ (literally "False Brucea Fruit" — another name indicating its resemblance to Yādǎnzǐ but belonging to a different genus), Zhū Dù (literally "Pig Belly" — named for its fruit shape resembling a pig's belly), and Zhū Lù Zǐ (literally "Pearl‑Spindle Fruit" — a local name, possibly referring to its round, bead‑like shape). These are all alternative names for 牛耳枫子 (Niú ěr fēng zǐ)， i.e., the dried mature fruit of Daphniphyllum calycinum Benth.
Niú ěr fēng zǐ (Fruit of Daphniphyllum calycinum) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the dried mature fruit of Daphniphyllum calycinum Benth., a plant belonging to the family Daphniphyllaceae.
Efficacy & Actions
Arrests dysentery.
Indications
It is used for chronic dysentery (prolonged dysentery).
Modern Pharmacology
Antibacterial effects. Antitumor effects. Other effects: such as analgesic, anti-shock, and antitussive effects, etc.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: decoct in water, the usual dosage is 3–4.5 g.
Contraindications
Contraindicated during pregnancy.
Selected Formulas
For chronic dysentery (empirical formula) Take 4g of Niu Er Feng zi (the fruit of a local herb), decoct in water and drink. For rheumatic bone pain and post-traumatic muscle contracture (empirical formula) Take an appropriate amount of Niu Er Feng root, decoct in water, and wash the affected area. For cold with fever, tonsillitis, and splenomegaly (empirical formula) Take 15g of Niu Er Feng root, decoct in water and drink.
Medicinal Parts
Dried mature fruit.
Selection & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and insects.
