Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine | Pinellia

Description

Pinellia (Araceae pinellia ternatae) is a member of the Aroid family. Originating from China and Japan, it is a small plant that is popular for ornamental use and known in Asia as "green dragon." Pinellia is a small plant, growing only to a height of 6–12 in (15–30 cm) high. It has black shiny stems, and glossy arrowhead-shaped leaves that are highlighted by a silver stripe along the veins. It produces purple tongue-like flowers in late summer.

General use

Athough not widely used in Western herbal medicine, pinellia is particularly useful for chest complaints. It relieves coughs and cuts through mucus, being especially good for sinus congestion and nasal discharge. It is also recommended for asthma, emphysema, and any form of wheezing, which makes it valuable as not many herbs are suited to the treatment of these...