Common Name: Wauke

Broussonetia papyrifera L.; paper mulberry, Chu Shi Zi

Family

Moraceae- Fig family

Part Used

Fruit, leaves, bark, cortex, sap, stem; In China, fruit is used primarily as a medicine; But in Hawaii, the plant does not fruit!!!

Active constituents

Benzofurans, biphenylpropanoids, coumarins, flavonoids

Actions

Cool the Blood

Antidiarrhoeal, anti-swelling, astringent; diaphoretic; diuretic; galactoagogue; hemostatic; insecticidal; lactogogue, laxative; ophthalmic; stimulant; stomachic; tonic vulnerary;

TCM indications: Plant:1) clears heat and cools the blood; 2) drains dampness’ 3) clears damp heat in the middle and lower burner; 4) stops diarrhea; 5) nourishes the liver and Kidney; Fruit: 1) strengthens joints; 2) promotes absorption; 3) drains damp; 4) nourishing to the eyes

Indications

Blood deficiency, vertigo, skin eruptions: neurodermatitis, tinea infection, eczema; diarrhea, abdominal pain and distention, dysentery, enteritis, laxative, weak vision, removes pus, weakness of joints and muscles; thrush; impotence; increases milk production, ascites, edema;

Cloth can be made from it; leaves can be used as paper; juice can be used as glue

Cautions

None found

Contraindications

Prolonged use is reported to weaken the bones

Herb Drug Interactions

None found

Dosage (use animal doses where available, otherwise human doses can be included here but specify)

Humans: 9-15 grams