What are the benefits and effects of the yew (Taxus)?

1. Medicinal effects

A substance called paclitaxel can be extracted from the yew, and it can effectively inhibit cancer. This is its greatest medicinal value, and for this reason it is extremely popular on the market, with many people suffering from cancer rushing to buy it. And we all know very well that cancer is the most terrifying disease in the world today, because no medicine can truly cure it. But ever since the extract in the yew was discovered, cancer has had a treatment option; however, because the extraction process for its extract is too complicated and the content is extremely small, a great many yews are needed to supply it, and this has also become what makes the yew so precious. In addition, the leaves of the yew can also be made into medicine, which has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect.

In addition, it can also be used to make yew wine; when drunk, it not only tastes excellent, but can also provide health benefits such as anti-cancer and blood pressure-lowering effects, so yew wine is an excellent health product.

2. Used as timber

Because the trunk of the yew is relatively hard and has good color, it can be used as a material for making furniture. Its roots in particular are even more unique; we can carve root sculptures of various shapes according to the shape of its roots. In addition, furniture made from it generally has an extremely smooth and bright surface, with clear grain, possessing a kind of natural beauty. Combined with the fact that it is very corrosion-resistant and not easily deformed, it is highly favored by collectors, so its collectible value is also extremely high.

3. Landscaping effects

Its tree is beautiful and is relatively suitable for use as a bonsai. After its seeds mature, the whole tree is covered with bright red berries, and set off by the green leaves, it is truly beautiful. Therefore it is deeply loved by people, and keeping it as a bonsai in the courtyard gives an excellent ornamental effect.

4. Purifying effects

The yew can absorb harmful substances in the air, improve air conditions, and give us a better living environment.