Coscinium fenestratum is recognized as a large climbing shrub, which grows among the trees of the forest. The posture is that of a robust woody climber. The leaves are leathery and shiny, with bright yellow sap.

Botanical Descriptions:

Creeping and climbing vine of 25-30 m length, diameter 6-7 cm. Shoots curved, noded stem. Outer bark grey with small scales, inner bark yellow with bitter taste. Wood bright yellow when cut, vertical sections showing radial lines, yellow sap. Leaf, single, alternate, obovate, lower blade white-green, leaf base rounded or truncate, apex acute, margin entire, 9-15 cm long, 6-8cm wide, twisted petiole 4-7 cm. Inflorescence flat, round topped rising from nodes, green-yellow flowers. Fruits, drupes 3 cm in diameter, brown to orange or yellow-grey in clusters of 10-20.

Some main medicinal uses:

1. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects

• The main active ingredient is berberine, which inhibits bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

• Effective in treating enteritis, diarrhea, dysentery, and gastrointestinal infections.

2. Lowering blood sugar and supporting diabetes treatment

• Able to reduce blood sugar levels.

• Used in combination in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

3. Protecting the liver and promoting bile

• Helps enhance liver function, protecting liver cells from damage caused by toxins.

• Has a bile-promoting effect, supporting the treatment of hepatitis and jaundice.

4. Antioxidant, cancer prevention

• Contains compounds that can fight free radicals.

• Some studies show the potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

5. Pain relief, fever reduction

• In traditional medicine, bitter gold is also used to treat aches and pains, fever due to colds, malaria.

• Boil water to drink: use dried stems or roots, thinly sliced, boil to get water.

• Soak in alcohol: use stems/roots soaked in alcohol, drink 1-2 small glasses per day.

• Powder form: grind into small pieces and use in appropriate doses, usually under the guidance of a physician.

Notes when using

• Do not use for pregnant women or children.

• Do not overdose as it can cause liver toxicity and digestive disorders.

• Consult a physician before long-term use or combining with Western medicine.