The flowers are white, with a five-lobed corolla 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) across, with an inflated basal calyx which matures into the papery orange fruit covering, 4–5 cm (1.6–2.0 in) long and broad.

It was used to heal fever, induce mental serenity, and assist in childbirth, according to ancient Chinese books including the Erya and Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing.

Its usage in reducing heat, boosting energy, and aiding in diuresis was also mentioned in Li Shizhen's Ming dynasty Compendium of Materia Medica.

[10] The dried fruit is called the golden flower in the Unani system of medicine, and used as a diuretic, antiseptic, liver corrective, and sedative.

Its many potential therapeutic qualities, including those that are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, analgesic, anti-tumor, and immune-regulating, are attributed to these well-researched constituents.

[10] In Japan, its bright and lantern-like fruiting calyces form a traditional part of the Bon Festival as offerings intended to help guide the souls of the dead.