Shrubby Cinquefoil: Benefits, Uses, and Traditional Applications

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Also Known As: Boluo.

Energetic Properties: Sweet in taste, cool in nature.

Meridian Tropism: Traditionally associated with the Lung and Kidney meridians.

Medicinal Parts: The leaves and flowers of the Rosaceae family plant, Dasiphora parvifolia (Fisch) Juz (Shrubby Cinquefoil).

Botanical Description: Flowers are often wrinkled into clusters; both sepals and epicalyx segments are typically five; petals are five, obovate, about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) in diameter, slightly notched at the apex, and yellow; stamens are numerous. It has a light, fresh fragrance and a sweet taste.

How to Use Shrubby Cinquefoil (Xiao Ye Jin Lao Mei)

Internal Use: Prepare as a decoction (boiled tea), 2-5 Qian (approximately 6-15 grams).

External Use: Pounded and applied as a poultice.

Preparation: Harvested in August-September, then sun-dried or used fresh.

Key Actions and Main Indications of Shrubby Cinquefoil

Key Actions: Promotes diuresis (urination) and helps reduce water retention.

Main Indications: Traditionally used for symptoms associated with damp-cold related beriberi (athlete's foot), itchy skin rashes, and mastitis.

Research has indicated that extracts from Dasiphora parvifolia possess notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential in soothing skin irritations (PMID: 35008581). Furthermore, studies on the genus Dasiphora, which includes Shrubby Cinquefoil, have explored its rich phytochemistry and various bioactivities, supporting its use in traditional medicine (PMID: 36676999). Specific compounds like polysaccharides from Dasiphora parvifolia have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting key cellular pathways, which may contribute to its traditional use in managing inflammatory conditions like mastitis (PMID: 34185121).

Important Safety Note: While Shrubby Cinquefoil is traditionally used for various conditions, it's essential to consult with a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or a healthcare professional before incorporating any new herbal remedy into your regimen, especially for internal use or severe conditions. They can provide personalized advice on appropriate dosage and potential interactions.

Shrubby Cinquefoil Formulations

1. For Itchy Skin Rashes: Combine Shrubby Cinquefoil (Xiao Ye Jin Lao Mei), Saxifrage (Hu Er Cao), and Sophora Root (Ku Shen), then prepare as a decoction for internal consumption.

2. For Mastitis: Use fresh Shrubby Cinquefoil leaves and flowers, pounded into a poultice for external application. (Formulations 1 and 2 are sourced from the 'Dictionary of Chinese Materia Medica')

Related Discussions on Shrubby Cinquefoil

From the 'Plateau Chinese Herbal Medicine Treatment Handbook': "Promotes diuresis and reduces water retention. Treats damp-cold related beriberi (athlete's foot), itchy skin rashes, and mastitis."

3-Second Self-Test + 30-Second Self-Rescue

If... you're experiencing persistent itchy skin rashes or minor localized swelling, you might benefit from understanding traditional herbal support.

Then Immediately... consider discussing natural remedies with a qualified TCM practitioner. A simple herbal poultice or tea might offer comfort and support your body's natural healing process.

For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.