(Hong Lao) Xian Cai苋菜

• ·Contraindicated in loose stools due to Spleen Deficiency.
• ·Because spinach is high in purines, which the body converts to uric acid, patients with elevated blood uric acid or rheumatic gout should avoid eating it in excess.
• ·Contraindicated in splenomegaly.

Some practitioners advise against combining pepper with this herb medicinally, though no reason is given.

• ·The Chinese distinguish a green variety, called Qing Xian Cai, from a red variety, known as Hong Xian Cai.
• ·Overall, spinach benefits digestion and supports Kidney function.
• ·The roots of red amaranth are used to treat dysentery.
• ·Spinach can help ease bowel movements.
• ·High-fiber foods are strongly recommended for people with colon cancer, diabetes mellitus, or elevated blood cholesterol, as well as those trying to lose weight.
• ·Taken orally, a 30% infusion of red spinach leaves Hong Xian Cai can raise serum iron and hemoglobin levels.
• ·The leaves are applied for postpartum Blood cleansing, strengthening hair roots, low blood pressure, anemia, and Kidney failure.
• ·The roots serve to treat dysentery.
• ·As an external application, fresh leaves are minced to a smooth paste and applied to wounds from venomous animal bites.
• ·This herb is used for chyluria, rough urination, bronchitis, eczema, ulcers, and fever.
• ·It promotes lactation and tonifies the Blood.
• ·For respiratory disorders and bronchitis, grind the stems, leaves, thorns, flowers and roots finely, boil in one liter of water, then strain; drink the liquid morning and evening.
• ·To promote milk production, finely grind the stems, leaves, thorns, flowers, and roots and apply them around the breast.
• ·To tonify the Blood: finely grind two handfuls of the leaves, stems and thorns together with one chicken egg; strain the egg into a glass of water and stir until well combined.
• ·To tonify the Blood in infants, crush a handful of the leaves, thorns and stems, mix with water, add a tablespoon of honey, and give regularly.
• ·For eczema and ulcers, grind a spinach thorn finely and apply to the affected area.
• ·Medicinally it treats diarrhea, ulcers, and inflammation of the throat and mouth.
• ·It is even used for allergic reactions to paint: the stems and leaves are simmered in water, and once cooled to lukewarm, the liquid is used to wash the affected skin.
• ·Another use: the leaves are mixed with diced cuttlefish and simmered for an extended, unspecified time, then eaten over several consecutive days for jaundiced skin.
• ·For dysentery, only the red variety is said to be effective: simmer it briefly, sweeten with honey, and eat as a compote.
• ·It is also recommended for bee stings — the leaves are crushed and applied directly over the sting.
• ·The root is also used for nosebleeds: combine roughly two tablespoons of root with half that amount each of watermelon rind and Herba Ecliptae Mo Han Lian, mince, and apply to the nose; one source instead simmers the mixture briefly before applying it.
• ·Every part of the plant — root, stem and leaves — is used, both as food and as medicine, and this flavorful green carries no known health hazards when used correctly.