Clinical Applications of Bletilla Striata, July 16, 1997

Clinical Applications of Bletilla Striata, July 16, 1997

Bletilla striata is the underground tuber of a perennial herbaceous plant in the orchid family, found throughout provinces in the Yangtze River basin, as well as in southern Shaanxi and Wudu in Gansu. It is a traditional hemostatic and astringent medicine, also having the effects of resolving blood stasis and reducing swelling. This herb is considered a divine remedy for hemoptysis in the stomach and lungs. It can also effectively treat hemoptysis caused by tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, and lung cancer. It is particularly effective for bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Applying a paste made from Bletilla striata powder mixed with vinegar and liquor externally is effective in treating superficial hemangiomas. However, this product should not be used in combination with aconite.