Nerium incidum (Jiazhutao)

Distribution:
Originally from Iran. Cultivated in most parts of China.

Properties (characteristics):
Bitter, cold 

Channels (meridians) entered:
Heart, lung, kidney.

Medical functions:
Its saponins may be a good potential for use as cardiac stimulant.
S.A.A. Jassim and M.A. Naji: exhibited considerable antiviral activities against influenza virus (RNA) and HSV (DNA) (Rajbhandari et al. 2001).
 
Actions & Indications:
Being used in cardiac exhaustion, asthmatic cough, Epilepsy, swelling and pain from impact injuries, Amenorrhea; Arrhythmia, hypotension, and coma.

In Ayurvedic medicine, the roots are being used as aphrodisiac, tonic and for chronic pain in abdomen and in joints. The flowers are also being used as aphrodisiac and for lumbago, inflammations, headache and scabies. (Do not use if you are not trained in this herb)

Dosage:
In decoction for oral consumption: 0.3 to 0.9 g.
In powder form: 0.15 g to 0.3 g.

Cautions:
Not to use during pregnancy.