Botanical Overview
Commonly known as Sang-Pai-Pi, this species belongs to the Moraceae family. This well-documented medicinal plant appears in the pharmacopoeias of numerous traditional systems, valued for its broad therapeutic range. The fig family (Moraceae) includes trees, shrubs, and climbers with milky sap and alternate leaves. The flowers are small and clustered inside a fleshy receptacle (the fig). Many species produce latex containing proteolytic enzymes and have traditional uses for skin conditions and parasitic infections.
General Description
It is native to China and is widely cultivated and naturalized elsewhere. The species is widely cultivated to feed the silkworms employed in the commercial production of silk. It is also notable for the rapid release of its pollen, which is launched at greater than half the speed of sound.
Family Context
The Moraceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Streblus asper — 35 documented uses
- Fig — 30 documented uses
- Paper Mulberry — 22 documented uses
- Jackfruit — 15 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Sang-Pai-Pi has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Canada, China, Germany, Spain, France, and others.
Traditional Uses
Sang-Pai-Pi has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Laxative
- Purgative
- Vermifuge
- Dyspepsia
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Asthma
- Cold
- Cough
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Wound
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities