This plant is commonly used in Chinese herbalism, where it is considered to be one of the 50 fundamental herbs.

The whole plant is antiphlogistic, depurative, diuretic and febrifuge. A decoction is used in the treatment of sores and abscesses, poisonous snakebites, tooth abscesses, ascites and traumatic injuries.

The fresh plant can also be crushed and used as a poultice. The root is antirheumatic, antisyphilitic, cathartic, depurative and diuretic.