Mole Cricket
- Chinese
- 蝼蛄
- Pinyin
- Lou Gu
- Latin
- Gryllotalpa
Known in TCM as Lou Gu (蝼蛄), this salty, cold herb enters the Bladder, Small Intestine, and Large Intestine. Traditionally, it promotes urination and reduces edema; a strong diuretic used for severe edema and ascites, most often applied for edema, frequent urination, and toothache. Modern research has identified Proteins among its active constituents.
Also Known As
Latin: Gryllotalpa | Pinyin: Lou Gu | Chinese: 蝼蛄
TCM Properties
- Taste
- salty
- Temperature
- cold
- Channels
- Bladder, Small Intestine, Large Intestine
Traditional Use
Primary Actions
- Promotes urination and reduces edema; a strong diuretic used for severe edema and ascites
- Resolves toxicity and reduces swelling; applied for sores and toxic swellings
- Traditionally used for urinary retention and toothache
Classical References
- Documented since early Chinese materia medica as an animal-derived diuretic used for severe fluid accumulation resistant to gentler herbs
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Proteins and free amino acids
- Fatty acids
- Alkaloids (berberine, palmatine, and unique Gryllotalpa-derived Buxus-type alkaloids)
Studied Effects
- Water extracts show a diuretic effect comparable to hydrochlorothiazide in saline-loaded animal models, though with different potassium-excretion mechanics
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity demonstrated in extract studies
- Isolated alkaloid components show antimicrobial activity
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Spleen-Stomach Deficiency without Excess fluid accumulation
Cautions
- Strongly draining; not for prolonged use or Deficiency-pattern edema
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mole Cricket used for?
Mole Cricket is traditionally used to Promotes urination and reduces edema; a strong diuretic used for severe edema and ascites, Resolves toxicity and reduces swelling; applied for sores and toxic swellings, Traditionally used for urinary retention and toothache. Research has investigated its effects on: Water extracts show a diuretic effect comparable to hydrochlorothiazide in saline-loaded animal models, though with different potassium-excretion mechanics; Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity demonstrated in extract studies.
What are other names for Mole Cricket?
Mole Cricket is also known as Gryllotalpa orientalis, Gryllotalpa unispina. In TCM: 蝼蛄 (Lou Gu); Gryllotalpa.
Is Mole Cricket safe during pregnancy?
Mole Cricket is not recommended during pregnancy.
What are the contraindications for Mole Cricket?
Mole Cricket should not be used in: Pregnancy; Spleen-Stomach Deficiency without Excess fluid accumulation. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.