蒌叶 / 荖叶 / 蒟酱 — Piper betle L.

Pinyin: Lóuyè / Lǎoyè · Malay: Sirih / Daun Sirih · Family: Piperaceae (胡椒科)

Energetics

Warm (温)

Flavor

Pungent, slightly bitter, aromatic (辛、微苦、芳香)

Meridians

Lung (肺), Spleen (脾), Stomach (胃), Liver (肝)

Traditional Edict

Dispels wind-cold, clears toxic heat, stops itching, kills parasites, and arrests bleeding. The sacred ceremonial and medicinal leaf of Malay Jamu for intimate washes and wound recovery.

Cautions & Contraindications

CRITICAL DISTINCTION: Pure leaf extracts are non-carcinogenic; chewing betel quid (leaf + Areca nut + slaked lime) is a Group 1 oral carcinogen. Contraindicated internally in severe gastrointestinal hyperacidity.

Clinical Applications

Oral and vaginal dysbiosis (Candida albicans), halitosis, chronic periodontitis, superficial infected wounds, acute thermal burns, and hemorrhoids.

Quality Markers

Hydroxychavicol & Eugenol >= 1.50% (HPLC MHM standard)

Mechanism & Phytochemistry

1. Hydroxychavicol compromises microbial cell membranes, destroying pathogenic biofilms of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. 2. Suppresses COX-2 and TXB2, providing localized anti-inflammatory analgesia. 3. Eugenol accelerates collagen synthesis and wound contraction.

Preparation & Dosage

100-Day Topical Antiseptic Spray or Zero-Water Intimate & Hemorrhoid Balm (infused into coconut oil with 15% beeswax). Fresh leaves for external wash/gargle: 5-10 leaves steeped in boiling water.

Appended Prescriptions

1. Nanyang Classical Intimate Cleansing Wash with Quercus infectoria (Manjakani) and Uncaria gambir. 2. Topical Anti-Microbial & Ulcer Recovery Liniment with Basella rubra and Clinacanthus nutans.

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Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only