Siegesbeckia is a shrub native to eastern Asia, which grows particularly well in hot climates. It usually consists of a large, greenish stem, from which shoot off green, oval- or triangular-shaped leaves; the top of the plant contains small, yellow flowers covered with sticky hairs. Its leaves exude a sap-like secretion, which contains a crystalline compound similar to aspirin. Both the aerial parts and the sap are used in herbal preparations. In traditional Chinese medicine, siegesbeckia is considered to have bitter and cold properties, and affects the Liver and Kidney meridians. Its main functions are to clear heat and release toxins, to strengthen the sinews, and to dispel wind and dampness. The sap is used externally to treat rheumatic pains and skin conditions such as boils and eczema. Internally, siegesbeckia is used as a sedative and (with other herbs) to treat hypertension.