|
Fagopyrum esculentum
(Polygonaceae)
BUCKWHEAT, BLE NOIR, SARACEN CORN
The leaves are used in herbalism
for conditions ranging from high blood pressure to frostbite. Chinese
doctors give buckwheat for bites, stings, trauma, and period pains.
Buckwheat is not related to bread wheat but is used as a flour in central Asia and China,
where it is native, as a grain in Russia, and to make pancakes in North America. An annual with erect stems, soft arrow-shaped leaves,
and small pinkish flowers in summer, it also produces small seeds shaped like three-sided pyramids.
PARTS USED
Leaves.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Flavonoid glycosides, rutin and
quercetin.
ACTIONS
Prevents haemorrhage; dilates the blood vessels; repairs blood vessel walls.
MEDICINAL USE
Used to treat high blood pressure associated with fragile capillaries,
and for frostbite, chilblains, retinal haemorrhages, and radiation damage. In Chinese medicine, it is prescribed for traumatic injuries,
lumbago, period pains, bites, and stings.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, tablets.
|
