The Dianthus genus comprises about 340 flowering species across the globe, including the well-known carnation varieties sold in flower shops. Dianthus chinensis is a source of the traditional Chinese medicine drug qu-mai. Used to treat UT infections and malfunctions, gonorrhea, edema, suppressed menstrual flow, carbuncles with swelling, eye inflammations, boils, and eczema.
References:
Bown. D. Encyclopaedia of Herbs and their Uses. Dorling Kindersley, London. 1995 ISBN 0-7513-020-31
Duke. J. A. and Ayensu. E. S. Medicinal Plants of China Reference Publications, Inc. 1985 ISBN 0-917256-20-4
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