☯ TCM Properties
Stops bleeding and promotes tissue regeneration; Absorbs Dampness and Heals Sores; Invigorates Blood and Alleviates Pain; Clears Lung Heat and Transforms Phlegm
Traditional Chinese Uses
Er Cha (black catechu, cutch extract) is a cool, bitter-astringent substance derived from acacia heartwood extract. In Chinese medicine, it clears Lung Heat, resolves Phlegm, stops bleeding, and relieves pain. Applied topically, it treats aphthous ulcers, eczema, bleeding gums, and chronic non-healing wounds. Internally, it is used for cough with yellow phlegm and diarrhea from Damp-Heat. Its strong astringent and antimicrobial properties make it effective for damp, inflamed conditions of both skin and mucous membranes.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Acacia catechu (L.f.) Willd. (Fabaceae), known as khadira or cutch, is a small to medium deciduous tree 9-15 m tall native to South and Southeast Asia, with feathery bipinnate leaves, paired stipular thorns, and pale yellow cylindrical flower spikes followed by flat brown pods. The medicinal Er Cha (catechu, cutch) is a dark brown to black, brittle extract prepared by boiling chips of the dark red heartwood in water and evaporating the decoction to dryness. The extract is exceptionally rich in catechin and epicatechin tannins (50-60%), giving it strong astringent and antioxidant properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, Er Cha is bitter, astringent, and cool, entering the heart and lung channels; it clears heat, transforms phlegm, generates flesh, and stops bleeding, applied topically for non-healing wounds, mouth sores, and skin ulcers, and internally for chronic cough with phlegm. It is also a foundational Ayurvedic remedy for skin and oral diseases.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| poultice | As needed | Daily | — | — | — |
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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