Generally speaking, the old woman refers to dandelion, also known as Viola yedoensis and Huahualang. It is a plant with dual functions of medicine and food. Its roots, stems, leaves and flowers are edible and have different functions.

Compendium of Materia Medica, Compendium of Yilin, Diet Spectrum of Interesting Life and Annals of Lingnan Materia Medica are all recorded. Studies have shown that the old lady has the functions of clearing away heat and toxic materials, diminishing inflammation, invigorating the stomach, inducing diuresis and resolving hard mass, and can treat women's breast swelling, pain and edema, pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis and other toxic heat symptoms. It has a good curative effect on dermatoses caused by common cold, gonorrhea, jaundice and liver insufficiency. Its decoction has a strong bactericidal effect on Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic streptococcus.