Beside our daily walking paths, in the fields, and even in the corners of the backyard, there are some inconspicuous weeds that grow. These plants, which are regarded as weeds, often silently dot the earth, and we rush by, rarely noticing their presence. However, did you know? In these neglected greens, there is a miraculous plant that was hailed by the ancients as "the best Chinese medicinal material". It can not only prevent and treat dementia, but also strengthen the spleen and stomach, relax the mind, and is a rare treasure in our daily life.
In the traditional Chinese medicine codex, calamus is given the reputation of "clearing the heart and eyes, opening the mind and awakening the mind". This weed, which is often regarded as insignificant, is in fact a precious Chinese medicinal material with a long history of application and great health benefits for modern people. Stone calamus,The scientific name is Acorus calamus, which grows in the wetlands near streams, and is easily recognized by its distinctive aroma and sword-shaped leaves.
The aerial parts of the calamus are rich in volatile oils, the main components of which are -caryophyllene and -caryophyllene, which give the calamus its strong aroma and its medicinal value. In the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, calamus is warm in nature, pungent in taste, and returns to the heart, liver, and spleen meridiansIt has the effects of opening the body and awakening the mind, dissolving dampness and water, reducing inflammation and relieving pain, and is often used for symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, upset and spleen dampness.
Science revealed: Cutting-edge research on calamus and dementia prevention
In recent years, with the deepening of scientific research, the potential of calamus to prevent and treat dementia has been gradually revealed. Studies have shown that the volatile oil components in calamus have the effect of improving blood circulation in the brain, enhancing memory and cognitive function. This discovery was made for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (Alzheimer'S disease) and other neurodegenerative diseases.
A pivotal study found that calamus extract was able to increase the concentration of acetylcholine in the brain by inhibiting the activity of acetylcholinesterase, a key neurotransmitter that is essential for learning and memory processes. In addition, calamus can also reduce the deposition of amyloid in the brain, which is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.
Through these mechanisms of action, Acorus is not only expected to be a natural medicine for the prevention and adjunct of cognitive impairment and dementia, but also highlights the potential value of traditional Chinese medicine in modern medical research. While these findings are exciting, more clinical trials and scientific validation are needed to further confirm their safety and efficacy.
Calamus: A modern application of traditional Chinese medicine
The traditional effect of calamus: strengthen the spleen and stomach, and relax the mind
Calamus, a plant often seen as a simple roadside grass, is a precious herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Ancient medical books such as the "Compendium of Materia Medica" recorded that calamus has the effect of strengthening the spleen, appetizing and reassuring the spirit. Modern studies have also found that the volatile oil components in calamus have a significant effect on improving digestive system function and relieving nervous tension.
Strengthen the spleen and stomach: Acorus can promote gastric juice secretion, enhance appetite, and have a good improvement effect on symptoms such as loss of appetite and indigestion.
Mind Relief:Tradition has shown that calamus calms the nerves and has a certain alleviating effect on insomnia, dreaminess and neurasthenia. This is supported by modern research, which suggests that it promotes improved sleep quality.
How to use calamus
Drink tea:Take an appropriate amount of dried calamus and soak it in hot water 1-2 times a day to improve sleep and enhance appetite.
Decoction to take:Compatible with other herbs such as Poria cocos and Atractylodes macrocephalus, decoction is taken according to the traditional formula, which helps to strengthen the spleen and stomach and calm the mind.
Precautions for collection and use
While utilizing calamus, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that it is safe and effective:
Correct identification:The acorus is characterized by slender leaves and aromatic rhizomes, which should be properly identified when collected to avoid confusion with other poisonous plants.
Acquisition time: The best collection time is spring and autumn, when the content of active ingredients in Chinese herbal medicines is high.
Store dry:After collection, the calamus should be dried in a ventilated and dry environment to avoid mildew to maintain its medicinal effect.
Dose control:Although calamus is mild, excessive use of any herb may cause adverse effects. It is recommended to use under the guidance of a professional, especially when using it for the first time.
With this practical knowledge and precautions, we will not only be able to make proper use of the natural resources around us, but will also be able to enhance our health and well-being in our daily lives. The modern application of this traditional Chinese medicinal herb demonstrates the perfect combination of traditional knowledge and modern life, encouraging us to pay more attention to and use the precious resources in nature.