trichosanthes kirilowii

**Trichosanthes kirilowii** is a perennial flowering plant in the family Cucurbitaceae, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as one of the 50 fundamental herbs, particularly under the names *guālóu* (fruit) and *tiān huā fěn* (tuber). Medicinally, its root, fruit, and seeds are used for a variety of purposes, including as expectorants, antiasthmatics, anti-inflammatories, and anti-platelet agents. Biochemically, the plant contains several active components, notably trichosanthin (a type 1 ribosome-inactivating protein with antiviral—e.g., anti-HIV—effects) and cucurbitacins (with antitumor and anti-inflammatory activity). Modern studies suggest possible efficacy against respiratory disorders (cough, phlegm, asthma), cardiovascular conditions (angina, myocardial infarction), digestive disorders (gastric ulcers, Helicobacter pylori), immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, and as an adjunct in cancer therapy via inhibition of STAT3 signaling pathways. Mechanistically, it can inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation, reduce inflammatory cytokines, and induce cancer cell apoptosis.

Other names

trichosanthis fructusguālóuChinese cucumberChinese snake gourdtiān huā fěn