Nan Gua Zi南瓜子
Semen Cucurbitae MoschataePumpkin Seeds and Husks
Also known asRed Squash Seed · Cushaw Seeds
- Category
- Herbs that expel parasites
- Nature
- neutral
- Taste
- sweet
- Channels entered
- Large Intestine, Stomach
- Secondary channels
- Spleen, Liver
- Dosage
- 30–60 g
Usual doses
- Dosage
- 30–60 g
- Tapeworm
- 60–120 g
- Schistosomiasis
- 120–200 g
Actions & indications
- Expels parasites and alleviates pain
- Tapeworms, roundworms, threadworms, Blood flukes and schistosomiasis (used as a stand-alone herb)
- Benefits postpartum fluid metabolism
- Insufficient lactation
- Postpartum swelling of the hands and feet
Contraindications
Overconsumption can clog the Qi and obstruct the diaphragm.
Notes
- This is a modern addition to the pharmacopoeia.
- The plant's pedicle is used for sores and burns.
- For schistosomiasis, 120-200g of Nan Gua Zi may be used alone.
- The typical protocol is 60-120g of powdered Nan Gua Zi taken with water, followed two hours later by a 60-120g decoction of Sm. Arecae Bing Lang, and then, thirty minutes after that, 15g of Natrii Sulfas Mang Xiao taken with water.
- Some sources say it harmonizes the Stomach and Spleen, promotes Qi flow, kills intestinal parasites, nourishes and moistens, clears Heat, and promotes urination, treating diabetes, cestodiasis, ascariasis, and postpartum edema of the hands and feet.
- One source cautions against confusing Red Squash seed with Pumpkin seed, which is used for prostatic hypertrophy.