Fructus Wikstroemiae Indicae
Aliases：Tongpizi; Gou Xinyao Zi; Gou Xin Cao Zi; Xiao Shanyao Zi; Que Zai Ma Zi; Jiu Xin Cao Zi.
Le Ge Wang Zi is the name of a traditional Chinese medicine. It is the fruit of Wikstroemia indica (Linn.) C. A. Mey., a plant in the family Thymelaeaceae. It grows in hillside thickets, roadsides, and village edges.
Efficacy & Actions
Removes toxin and dissipates nodules.
Indications
Carbuncles and deep-rooted abscesses; scrofula; warts.
Modern Pharmacology
Dedicated pharmacological research on Le Ge Wang Zi (the fruit) remains insufficient. The following findings are primarily derived from studies on the related species Liao Ge Wang (root, stem, and leaf) of the same genus, and are provided for reference: Antibacterial effect: The water decoction of the root bark and stem bark of Liao Ge Wang inhibits Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic Streptococcus, and Pneumococcus in vitro. The leaf water decoction is highly sensitive to Diplococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, and moderately sensitive to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi. Anti-inflammatory effect: Liao Ge Wang inhibits both early and proliferative stages of inflammation and inhibits acetic acid-induced writhing in mice, demonstrating analgesic activity. Antiviral and antitumor effects: Extracts of Liao Ge Wang possess anti-hepatitis B virus, anti-HIV, anti-influenza virus, anti-colorectal cancer, anti-adipogenic, and myocardial oxygen consumption-improving pharmacological effects. Improving myocardial nutritional blood flow: Daphnoretin has the effect of improving nutritional blood flow to the myocardium in mice. Note: The above pharmacological findings are largely derived from studies on the root, stem, and leaf of Liao Ge Wang. Dedicated systematic pharmacological research on Le Ge Wang Zi (the fruit) is extremely limited, and the modern scientific basis for its traditional effects remains to be further explored. Traditional actions and indications should remain the primary basis for use.
Ingredients
The fruit of Le Ge Wang Zi (Fruit of Indian Stringbush) mainly contains the following constituents: Saponins: The seeds contain saponins. Flavonoids: The seeds contain flavonoids. Oils: The seeds contain a large amount of oil.
Usage & Dosage
External use: Appropriate amount. Pound and apply topically; or steep in alcohol and apply.
Contraindications
Oral use should be approached with caution. Contraindicated in debilitated individuals and during pregnancy.
Selected Formulas
Essential Materia Medica for Raw Herbs: “Applied topically for scrofula, carbuncles, and deep-rooted abscesses.”
Medicinal Parts
Fruit.
Selection & Storage
Dried material should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry place. Protect from moisture and insect damage. Airtight storage is recommended. Avoid direct sunlight. Special note: Le Ge Wang Zi (Fruit of Indian Stringbush) is toxic. It should be stored separately from other medicinal materials and clearly labeled with a prominent toxicity warning to prevent accidental misuse.
