Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Luffae Fructus Retinervus |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 絲瓜絡 · Si Gua Luo |
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| Medicinal Part | Fruits and seeds |
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| Efficacy Category | Blood-activating |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried vascular bundles from the dried mature fruit of Luffa cylindrical (L.) Roem.(Cucurbitaceae) |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sweet; Neutral |
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| Channels Entered | Lung, Stomach, Liver |
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What Is Si Gua Luo?
Si Gua Luo (Loofah, Towel Gourd Vegetable Sponge) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Produced all around China, the best quality is produced in the Cixi region of Zhejiang and Jiangsu.
Nature & Flavour: Sweet; Neutral
Channels Entered: Lung, Stomach, Liver
Si Gua Luo: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Luffae Fructus Retinervus
Botanical Origin
The dried vascular bundles from the dried mature fruit of Luffa cylindrical (L.) Roem.(Cucurbitaceae)
Production Regions
Produced all around China, the best quality is produced in the Cixi region of Zhejiang and Jiangsu.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material has long large strips, when the outer skin is removed, there are yellowish-white net-like vascular bundles.
Macroscopic Features
Composed of thread-like interconnected vascular bundles, often long ridged or long cylindrical shape, slightly curved, 30~70cm long, 7~10cm diameter. Externally pale yellowish-white. Light in weight, pliable texture, flexible, cannot be broken. Cross-section has 3 chambers of ovary, creating a hollow appearance. faint odor, tasteless.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sweet; NeutralLungStomachLiver
Traditional Functions
Dispels wind and unblocks the collaterals, activates blood and promotes lactation.
How Si Gua Luo Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Si Gua Luo is classified among the Blood-activating herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
