The efficacy and functions of Mai Dong include:
1. Drying dampness and resolving phlegm to treat cough and dizziness. Pinellia has a spicy taste and warm nature, and it enters the spleen, stomach, and lung meridians. It has the function of drying dampness and resolving phlegm, which can dispel dampness and phlegm and stop coughing. It can be used for the treatment of common diseases such as cough with excessive phlegm, phlegm-dampness reversal, and dizziness. However, patients have different constitutions and causes of illness, so when using pinellia for treatment, different Chinese medicinal materials need to be matched. Commonly used combinations for treating cough with excessive phlegm include Fritillaria, loofah, and Arisaema. Specific usage needs to be consulted with a professional doctor.
2. Descending rebellious Qi and stopping vomiting to treat gastrointestinal diseases. Pinellia is a medicinal material that can enter the stomach meridian. It can transform phlegm-dampness in the middle burner and increase the digestive capacity of the spleen and stomach. It plays an important role in regulating the spleen and stomach, descending rebellious Qi, and stopping vomiting. It can be used for conditions such as upward reversal of stomach Qi, nausea and vomiting, and pharyngitis.
3. Dissipating lumps and treating cysts and masses. It is used for chest and epigastric fullness, chest obstruction, and lump formation. Pinellia has the functions of dispersing, warming, promoting circulation, resolving phlegm, and drying dampness, so it can be used for diseases caused by phlegm obstruction and chest and epigastric fullness. Pinellia should not be used together with aconite-like medicinal materials. Raw pinellia should not be taken internally. Those with yin deficiency and dry cough, or those with damage to body fluids and thirst, should avoid taking pinellia. Pregnant women should use pinellia with caution.
It should be noted that when using Mai Dong, it is necessary to use it in a reasonable dosage according to the specific condition and the advice of herbal medicine practitioners.