Radix sophorae flavescens (sophora flavescens), also known as “Ku Shen 苦参”, is a kind of root used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is the root of leguminous plant (Fabaceae)Sophora flavescens. The plant grows in Asia, including China, Japan, North Korea and South Korea. The roots are harvested and dried, and then used to make medicines.
What is Radix sophorae flavescentis?
Radix sophorae flavescentis is the dried root of Sophora flavescens Ait. (Fabaceae) and is commonly known as Kushen in Chinese. It has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to treat abscess, edema, dysentery, eczema, ulcers, skin burns, skin itch and atopic dermatitis.
The root is collected in spring or autumn, removed the top parts, rootlets and soil, washed with water, then dried to yield the intact form. Alternatively, the root is sliced while fresh and dried immediately to obtain the sliced form of Sophorae Flavescentis Radix. It contains flavonoids and alkaloids such as matrine and oxymatrine.
Medicinal value
The roots of Sophora flavescens are considered to have many medicinal properties. It is considered to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor and antioxidant effects.
It has been used to treat various diseases, including cold, fever, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, edema, hypertension, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease and cancer.
According to a large number of research literature summary, modern medicine has found that bitter ginseng has the following effects:
- Anti-tumor effect
- Enhance the number of white blood cells
- Protecting cardiovascular system
- Reduces coughing and breathing problems
- Sedation
- Anti-allergic
- Immunosuppression
How is it used in traditional medicine?
Radix sophorae flavescentis is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties.
It is also used to treat skin diseases such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. The root can be prepared in different ways, such as decoction, powder, or ointment. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is often combined with other herbs to create a formula that targets specific health issues.
However, it is important to note that while traditional medicine can be effective for some conditions, it should not be used as a substitute for modern medical treatments.
What are the other herbs that it is often combined with?
Radix sophorae flavescentis is often combined with other herbs to create a formula that targets specific health issues. Some of the herbs that it is commonly combined with include:
- Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese liquorice)
- Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese skullcap)
- Coptis chinensis (Chinese goldthread)
- Phellodendron amurense (Amur cork tree)
- Rehmannia glutinosa (Chinese foxglove)
- Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony)
Side effect
The root of Sophora flavescens is usually used safely, but it is important to consult a doctor before taking it, especially if you are taking other drugs or have any medical condition. It may have side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and headache.
The root of Sophora flavescens is a popular herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is considered to have many medicinal properties and is generally safe to use. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking it, especially if you are taking other drugs or have any medical condition.
Reference source:
- https://ourcamwell.com/library/radix-sophorae-flavescentis/
- https://www.cmro.gov.hk/files/hkcmms/vol4/Vol4_pdf_English/D_Monographs/27-Sophorae%20Flavescentis%20Radix.pdf
- https://www.cochrane.org/es/CD013089/LIVER_radix-sophorae-flavescentis-para-la-hepatitis-b-cronica
- http://www.a-hospital.com/w/%E8%8B%A6%E5%8F%82
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/a48c/73af4ab750ee196c8965072db354634f5567.pdf
