Schizonepeta

Schizonopeta, also known as jing jie or catnip, is a plant that is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has a warm and acrid taste, and is slightly warm in temperature. It is believed to have a variety of medicinal properties, and is commonly used to release the exterior, expel wind, and stop bleeding.

One of the primary functions of Schizonopeta is to release the exterior, which refers to the body's surface layer of defense. This plant is believed to be effective in treating exterior wind heat or cold, fever, sore throat, and headache. It is also thought to be useful in expelling wind-cold-damp and relieving pain, making it a popular choice for treating skin eruptions that are accompanied by itching, particularly in cases of measles.

In addition to its ability to release the exterior and expel wind, Schizonopeta is also known for its ability to stop bleeding. When charred and taken internally, it is believed to be effective in stopping bleeding in the stool, urine, uterus, and vomit.

Despite its numerous potential benefits, there are some contraindications to be aware of when using Schizonopeta. It should not be used in cases of deficiency of the exterior or erupted sores, and it is not effective in the absence of pathogenic wind.

In terms of pharmacology, Schizonopeta has been found to have analgesic, antiallergic, antiastmatic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, bronchodilator, and expectorator properties. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory issues, skin problems, and febrile illnesses.