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lei gong teng ,:雷公藤, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. for Rheumatoid Arthritis

April 17, 2014 10:01 am / 2 Comments on lei gong teng ,:雷公藤, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. for Rheumatoid Arthritis

A Chinese herb called thunder god vine works better than a widely-prescribed pharmaceutical drug at easing rheumatoid arthritis, a new study has found.

Tripterygium regelii, Aizu area, Fukushima pref, Japan

The herb has long been used in China to treat this potentially crippling autoimmune disease, which typically strikes hand and foot joints. It is known in Mandarin as ‘lei gong teng’ and to botanists as Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F.

Extracts of the herb have already fired the interest of drug laboratories as they contain hundreds of compounds, including intriguing molecules called diterpenoids which are believed to ease inflammation and immune response.

read at

http://lyranara.me/2014/04/16/chinese-herb-beats-drug-at-treating-rheumatoid-arthritis/

http://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health/article/1482780/chinese-herb-beats-drug-rheumatoid-arthritis-study

Researchers at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine have discovered that a natural constituent isolated from a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, Triptergium wilfordii Hook F. (雷公藤, Lei Gong Teng, Thunder God Vine), used for hundreds of years to treat many conditions, works well by blocking gene control machinery in the cell. Thunder God Vine (Lei Gong Teng) is regarded as toxic and used externally to treat rheumatoid arthritis and sciatica. This report, published as a cover story of the March issue of Nature Chemical Biology, suggests that the natural constituent could be a starting point for developing new anti-cancer drugs.

The extracts of Triptergium wilfordii have been used to treat a whole host of conditions and highly lauded for anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, contraceptive and anti-tumor activities. The researchers have known about the active compound, triptolide, which can stop cell growth, since 1972, but only now have they figured out what it does.

Triptolide, the active ingredient purified from Tripterygium wilfordii, has been shown in animal models to be effective against cancer, arthritis, and skin graft rejection. In fact, triptolide has been shown to block the growth of all 60 U.S. National Cancer Institute cell lines at very low doses, and even causes some of those cell lines to die. Other experiments have suggested that triptolide interferes with proteins known to activate genes, which gives the researchers an entry point into their research. Using information already known about these proteins and testing the rest to see if triptolide would alter their behaviors, the research team finally found that triptolide directly binds to and blocks the enzymatic activity of a protein.

Triptolide’s general ability to stop enzymatic activity explains its anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. And its behavior has important additional implications for circumventing the resistance that some cancer cells develop to certain anti-cancer drugs. The researchers are eager to study it further to see what it can do for future cancer therapy.

Source:

http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-03-traditional-chinese-medicine-mystery.html

Tripterygium wilfordii, or léi gōng téng (Mandarin) (Chinese:雷公藤, Japanese: raikōtō), sometimes called thunder god vine but more properly translated thunder duke vine, is a vine used in traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of fever, chills, edema and carbuncle.

Tripterygium wilfordii recently has been investigated as a treatment for a variety of disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, chronichepatitis, chronic nephritis, ankylosing spondylitis, polycystic kidney disease as well as several skin disorders. It is also under investigation for its apparent antifertility effects, which it is speculated, may provide a basis for a Male oral contraceptive.^[1]

Triptolide, a diterpene triepoxide, is a major active component of extracts derived from Tripterygium wilfordii. Triptolide has multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, immune modulation, antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity.^[2]

The Chinese herb, Lei Gong Teng, comes from the roots, leaves and flowers of the tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. It is collected during summer and autumn. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook is a deciduous climbing vine growing to 12 meters, with brown, angular, downy twigs. The leaves are light green, smooth on top, and pale gray with light hairs underneath. They have crenate margins and pointed apexes, and are ovate to elliptic, 5-15 cm long, 2.5 – 7 cm wide. The scented hermaphroditic (having male and female organs) flowers, which bloom in September, are small and whitish with five petals and are about 9 mm across, in terminal panicles in July. The fruit is 3-winged, and brownish red, about 1.5 cm long. The plant can grow in light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. It can survive in acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soil. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil.

Source: The whole plant of Triptergium wilfordil Hook. f., family Celastraceae.

Reduction of male fertility

The plant contains many active compounds, at least six of which have male anti-fertility effect (triptolide, tripdiolide, triptolidenol, tripchlorolide, 16-hydroxytriplide and a compound known as T7/19, whose structure is unpublished). The mechanism by which they affect fertility is not yet understood. What is known is that daily doses of these compounds reduce sperm counts and also severely affect the formation and maturation of sperm, causing them to be immotile.

Scientific research into medical effects

Contraception

Certain extracts from Tripterygium wilfordii, as well as from Tripterygium hypoglaucum (now considered identical to T. regelii) and Tripterygium regelii, were discovered in the 1980s to have temporary antifertility effects, which has led to research on its potential as a contraceptive.

“Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f., known as Leigongteng (Thunder God Vine) in traditional Chinese medicine, has attracted much attention for its applications in relievingautoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, and for treating cancer. Molecular analyses of the ITS and 5S rDNA sequences indicate that T. hypoglaucum and T. doianum are not distinct from T. wilfordii, while T. regelii should be recognized as a separate species. The results also demonstrate potential value of rDNA sequence data in forensic detection of adulterants derived from Celastrus angulatus in commercial samples of Leigongteng.”^[3]

Not enough is known about T. wilfordii to actually test it as a contraceptive. Research thus far has dealt with establishing the mechanism by which the plant affects fertility, and investigating toxicity and side effects. What has been learned is encouraging, however: in both animals and humans, low doses of various Tripterygium extractscan produce significantly lowered sperm density and motility indices without major side effects. When the treatment was ended in the various trials, all indices returned to normal within months.

T. wilfordii could be an effective pharmaceutical alternative to contraceptives based on hormonal manipulation.

Kidney function

As of 2012 The Nanjing University School of Medicine is conducting a clinical trial of Tripterygium wilfordii to determine its possible beneficial effects on kidney volume and kidney function for polycystic kidney disease (PKD) patients.^[4] It should report in late 2013.^{[dated info]}

Immunosuppression

A small molecule Triptolide derived from T. wilfordii has been shown to disrupt mitochondrial function in cells and is under investigation as an anti-tumor agent or to suppress auto-immune disorders.

Rheumatoid arthritis

In China Tripterygium wilfordii has an established history of use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The herb shows immunosuppressive, cartilage protective, and anti-inflammatory effects.^[5]^[6] The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has noted that one systematic review of the literature found that Tripterygium wilfordii may improve some RA symptoms, though another systematic review has stated that the serious side effects occur frequently enough to make the risks of taking this herbal supplement too high for the possible benefits.^[7]

Pancreatic cancer

Two compounds, the diterpenoid epoxide triptolide and the quinone triterpene celastrol found in the plant may have potential as antitumor drugs.^[8]

Drugs derived from the plant also show potential for reduction and elimination of pancreatic tumors in mice. Clinical trials may soon begin for the development of a drug for use in humans.^[9]

At medicinal doses, T. wilfordii extract does have significant side effects, including immunosuppression. However, this may not apply to contraceptive use. Many of the side effects are caused by the other active compounds found in the plant, and do not appear when a pure extraction of its compounds with anti-fertility effect is used. In addition, the dose required to lower fertility is significantly lower than the standard medicinal dose.

In August 2011, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) published a drug safety bulletin advising consumers not to use medicines containing Lei Gong Teng. This was due to concerns over potentially serious side effects.

Baidu Baike cautions do not take internally; China State Food and Drug Administration issued a warning in April 2012 about this medicine, urging caution.^[10]

However, a recent review stated that although Tripterygium wilfordii has toxic potential, careful extraction gives an acceptable frequency of adverse reactions, which are largely related to the gastrointestinal tract and amenorrhea. The review found that T. wilfordii extract is useful remedy for postmenopausal rheumatoid arthritis.^[11]

The Beijing TV series of China Medicine has shown people being treated successfully with the herb in a formula for rheumatoid arthritis. and outlined some practice to alleviate problems of using the herb. As often the case of TCM, formulations need to to be adjusted for individual’s physiology for best result.

Composition:

1. Saponins

(1). Wilforgine, wilforgine-B,wilfordine, wilfornine, wilfortrine, wilfortrine-D, wilforzine, wilformine, wilfordinic acid, hydroxywilfordii acid ,wilfornine , neowilforine.

(2). Celacinnine, celafurine, celabenzine, celallocinnine.

(3). Triptofordinine A-1, A-2, triptofordin D-1, D-2, E , triptofordin A, B, C-1 C-2 , triptofordin F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4.

2. Diterpene group

(1). Triptolide, tripdiolide, triptonide,tripterolide.

(2.). Triptolidenol, tripnolide, neotriptophenolide, triptophenolide methyl ether , isoneotrip-tophenolide, hypolide methyl ether.

(3). Triptonoterpene, triptonoterpene methyl ether, triptonoterpenol 12-ydroxy-abieta-8, 11, 13 -trien-3-one, 11-hydroxy-14-methoxy-abieta-8, 11-hydroxy-14-methoxy-abieta-8, 11, 13-trien-3-one.

3. Tetra-triterpene group

(1). Wilforlide A, wilforlide B.

(2). Tritotriterpenoid lactone, tretotriterpenic acid A, tritotriterpenic acid B, tritotriterpenic acid C, 3-epikatonic acid, polpunonic acid, triptodihydroxy acid methyl ester, tripterine.

(3). 3,24-dioxofridelan-29-oic acid, salaspermic acid.

4. Wilfornide

5. 1,8-dihydroxy-4-hydroxymethyl anthraquinone

6. Syringareisno

7 Other Chemicals: dulcitol, glucose, tannin.

8. Trace mineral: iron, manganese, zinc, copper, selenium etc.

Pharmacology

PG490-88 (14-succinyl triptolide sodium salt) is a semisynthetic compound derived from the diterpene triepoxide, triptolide (PG490). PG490 was first isolated and structurally characterized in 1972 when it was extracted from the Chinese medicinal herb, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TWHF), a member of the Celastraceae family. Historically, extracts of TWHF have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine but in the 1970s, they were identified as being effective in the treatment of inflammatory/autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Since then, more rigorous attempts were made to better identify biologically active constituents of TWHF responsible for its various clinical properties. We now know, for example, that diterpenoid components of TWHF, especially PG490, exert their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects by inhibition of cytokine production (e.g. , IL-2, IL-4, IFN) by T lymphocytes. These effects of PG490 have also been explored in mouse models where it was shown that PG490 prevents graft versus host disease (GVHD) and prolongs skin, heart, and kidney allograft survival.

The isolation of PG490 has also led to studies supporting its potential development as an antineoplastic agent. Shamon et al., for example, showed that PG490 inhibited growth of several human cancer-derived cell lines (including breast, prostate, and lung) grown in culture. PG490 was also shown to induce apoptosis of human promyelocytic leukemia, T-cell lymphoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines grown in culture. Interestingly, the inhibitory effects of PG490 on the growth of tumor cells in culture were enhanced in the presence of other inducers of apoptosis such as tumor necrosis factor- (TNF) and chemotherapeutic agents. When combined with chemotherapeutic drugs, PG490 enhanced apoptosis through signaling pathways involving both p53 and p21.

Data on the effects of PG490 on tumor cell growth in vivo , however, are limited. Previous reports have shown that PG490 inhibits tumor development in a hamster model of cholangiocarcinoma and in a murine breast cancer model. These beneficial effects of PG490, however, were counterbalanced by toxicity that was observed at high doses. In the present studies, we further examined the role of PG490 in inhibition of tumor cell growth both in vitroand in a tumor xenograft model. We show that PG490-88, a water-soluble prodrug of PG490, suppresses tumor cell growth in vivo without toxicity. We also show that PG490 acts in synergy with chemotherapy. Our results suggest a potential role of PG490-88 alone and in combination with chemotherapy as a novel antineoplastic regimen for the treatment of patients with solid tumors

The molecular target(s) for PG490 is currently unknown. Clues to the cellular target, however, are emerging from its effect on transcriptional activity. For example, we have shown along with Qiu et al. , that PG490 blocks transcriptional activation of NF- B by blocking transcriptional activation of p65 but without affecting DNA binding by p65. Additionally, we have found that PG490 blocks transcriptional activation by AP-1 and p53 without affecting DNA binding by Jun/Fos or p53. Recent studies show that the transcriptional activity of AP-1, NF-B, and p53 is regulated by a chromatin structure that is controlled, in part, by histone acetylation. In support of this, a recent study showed that p65 interacts with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) corepressors HDAC1 and HDAC2 to negatively regulate NF- B transcriptional activity. Also, silencing mediator of retinoic acid and thyroid hormone receptors (SMRT) was shown to inhibit transactivation of AP-1, NF-B, and serum response factor (SRF) by binding to their cognate transcription factors. Recent studies also show that p53-mediated transcriptional activity is regulated by histone acetylation. However, we have not observed an effect of PG490 on histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity or histone acetylation.

PG490 at doses of 5–10 ng/ml does not repress basal transcriptional activity mediated by AP-1, NF-B, and p53 but it does block induction of NF-B by TNF and p53 transcriptional activity induced by chemotherapy. Also, PG490 does not affect topoisomerase I or II activity or increase topoisomerase cleavage complexes. Therefore, its synergy with chemotherapy may in large part be due to its inhibition of p21 mediated growth arrest, which activates an apoptotic pathway.

The treatment of solid tumors is evolving to more targeted treatments that may be helped by genetic profiling of tumors and targeting tumor-specific angiogenic and growth factor pathways. Also, several recent studies have shown that disrupting checkpoints in tumors drives tumor cells into apoptosis by abrogating checkpoint arrest. Here we show that PG490-88, a water-soluble derivative of PG490, reduces tumor growth, induces marked regression, or completely eradicates human tumor xenografts. Moreover, PG490-88 is a potent and well-tolerated antitumor agent that acts in synergy with DNA damaging agents and is effective in a clinically relevant dosing schedule. PG490-88 is now in phase I clinical trials for patients with solid tumors. A recent study showing that PG490 inhibits metastasis of solid tumors coupled with our findings that PG490-88 markedly enhances the cytotoxicity of DNA damaging agents suggests that PG490 or PG490-88 alone or in combination with chemotherapy may become an effective therapy for patients with solid tumors. Also, our finding that PG490 sensitizes tumor cells to TNF by blocking NF-B suggests a role for the combination in treating patients with TNF sensitive tumors such as melanoma. Identification of the target of PG490 and its mechanism of action will complement the ongoing clinical trials, and will provide insight into potential mechanisms of toxicity and the design of compounds that may be more selective and more potent.

Zhen QS, Ye X, Wei ZJ (February 1995). “Recent progress in research on Tripterygium: a male antifertility plant”. Contraception 51 (2): 121–9. doi:10.1016/0010-7824(94)00018-R.PMID 7750290.
Liu Q. (2011). “Triptolide and its expanding multiple pharmacological functions”. International Immunopharmacology 11 (3): 377–383. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2011.01.012.PMID 21255694.
Law et al (2010), p. 21. Source undefined
Randomized Clinical Trial of Triptolide Woldifii for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Bao J., Dai S.-M. “A Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: mechanism, efficacy, and safety” Rheumatology International 2011 (1-7)
Moudgil K.D., Venkatesha S.H., Rajaiah R., Berman B.M. “Immunomodulation of autoimmune arthritis by herbal CAM” Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2011 2011 Article Number 986797
“Rheumatoid Arthritis and Complementary Health Approaches”. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Retrieved 21 April 2013.
Liu Z, Ma L, Zhou GB. (2011). “The main anticancer bullets of the Chinese medicinal herb, thunder god vine.”. Molecules 16 (6): 5283–97. doi:10.3390/molecules16065283.PMID 21701438.
Drug From Chinese ‘Thunder God Vine’ Slays Tumors in Mice. 17 Oct 2012
中医・我が愛しの上海へ／理想の中医学・漢方を求めて-
Bao J., Dai S.-M., (September 2011). “A Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: Mechanism, efficacy, and safety.”. Rheumatology International 31 (9): 1123–1129. doi:10.1007/s00296-011-1841-y. PMID 21365177.

References

Downloadable PDF – “Molecular analyses of the Chinese herb Leigongteng (Tripterygium wilfordii Hook.f.)” (2010). Sue Ka-Yee Law et al. Phytochemistry 72 (2011) 21–26, Elsevier.[1]
Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;599:139-46.
Journal of Andrology 1998; vol 19 no 4, pp 479–486.
Contraception 1995; vol 51, pp 121–129.
Contraception 1986; vol 36 no 3, pp 335–345.
MHRA safety bulletin

Drug From Chinese ‘Thunder God Vine’ Slays Tumors in Mice

Chinese medicine…Cordyceps ( dong chong xia cao ) 冬蟲草 དབྱར་རྩྭ་དགུན་འབུ་ ………..to treat many diseases related to lungs, kidney, and also used as a natural Viagra.

April 4, 2014 3:40 am / 1 Comment on Chinese medicine…Cordyceps ( dong chong xia cao ) 冬蟲草 དབྱར་རྩྭ་དགུན་འབུ་ ………..to treat many diseases related to lungs, kidney, and also used as a natural Viagra.

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (left) growing out of the head of a dead caterpillar

Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a fungus that parasitizes larvae of ghost moths and produces a fruiting body valued as an herbal remedy. The fungus germinates in the living larva, kills and mummifies it, and then the stalk-like fruiting body emerges from the corpse. It is known in English colloquially as caterpillar fungus, or by its more prominent foreign names (see below): yartsa gunbu or yatsa gunbu (Tibetan), or Dōng chóng xià cǎo (Chinese: 冬虫夏草; literally “winter worm, summer grass”). Of the various entomopathogenic fungi, Ophiocordyceps sinensis is one that has been used for at least 2000 years[2] to treat many diseases related to lungs, kidney, and also used as a natural Viagra. This fungus is not yet cultivated commercially,[3] despite the fact that several fermentable strains of Ophiocordyceps sinensis are isolated by Chinese Scientists.[4] Overharvesting and over exploitation have led to the classification of O. sinensis as an endangered species in China.[5] Additional research needs to be carried out in order to understand its morphology and growth habit for conservation and optimum utilization.

The moths in which O. sinensis grows are ambiguously referred to as “ghost moth”, which identifies either a single species or the genus Thitarodes, and the species parasitized by O. sinensis may be one of several Thitarodes that live on the Tibetan Plateau (Tibet, Qinghai, West-Sichuan, SW-Gansu & NW Yunnan), and the Himalayas (India, Nepal, Bhutan).

O. sinensis is known in the West as a medicinal mushroom, and its use has a long history in Traditional Chinese medicine as well as Traditional Tibetan medicine.[6] The hand-collected fungus-caterpillar combination is valued by herbalists and as a status symbol;[7] it is used as an aphrodisiac and treatment for ailments such as fatigue and cancer, although such use is mainly based on traditional Chinese medicine and anecdote. Recent research however seems to indicate a variety of beneficial effects in animal testing, including increased physical endurance through heightened ATP production in rats.[8]

Cordyceps Sinensis

Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. and the usually the larvae are the remains of Hepialus varians

tonifies lung yin and kidney yang. For impotence, chronic lower back pain, afraid of cold, over abundance of mucus and tears, chronic cough and wheezing from deficiency, blood in phlegm from consumption due tokidney yang deficiency (shenyangxu).

Cordyceps ( Dong Chong Cao ) 冬蟲草 Chinese Herbal Articles also known as chong cao, dong chong cao, yarsa gumba (Nepalese name of Tibetan origin), yartsa gunbu (dbyar rtswa dgun ‘bu) Tibetan name 蟲草, 冬蟲草. It belong to the “Ascomycetes or Clavicipitaceae” family.

Cordyceps ( Dong Chong Cao ) 冬蟲草 has a sweet, warm properties. It is use for treating the lung and kidney.

Cordyceps ( Dong Chong Cao ) Chinese Herbs Articles was created to help cleanse and rejuvenate your body enable you to stay younger and healthier 
with chinese herbal recipes.

Cordyceps polysaccharide	_{Cordyceps polysaccharide}
Vitamin B ₁₂	Vitamin B ₁₂
ergosterol	Ergosterol
cordycepic acid	Cordyceps acid
Amino Acid group:	Amino acids:
crude protein 27.52%	Crude protein 27.52%
amino acid: lysine	Lysine
aspartic acid	Aspartic acid
threonine	Threonine
taurine	Taurine

1. Improves auto-immune system.
2. Protects kidneys from toxins.
3. Protects kidneys from exhaustion.
4. Protects liver from toxins and treats and prevents cirrhosis of liver.
5. Protect the heart from the damaging effect of ouabain (C29H44O12.8H2O).
6. Anti-arrhythmia.
7. Anti-rejection effect in cornea transplant.
8. Antibiotic effect.
9. Inhibits contraction of smooth muscles.

improves auto-immune system function. It is an effective adjuvant therapy in hematopoietic dysfunction and in cancer. Cordyceps polysaccharide on peripheral blood lymphocytes possesses bidirectional immuno-modulatory effects.
It can enhance the macrophage immune activity.
Significant improvement of the condition of deformability of erythrocyte after strenuous exercise, and it is related to the degree of concentration of the extract of the herb. As the concentration increases, the effect of improvement increases.
It can significantly inhibit lipid peroxidation of membrane lipid peroxidation after exercise. There is a strong scavenging effect.
protects kidneys from toxins,
protects kidneys from exhaustion,
protects liver from toxins and treats and prevents cirrhosis of liver,
protect the heart from the damaging effect of ouabain(C₂₉H₄₄O₁₂.8H₂O),
anti-arrhythmia,
anti-rejection effect in cornea transplant,
antibiotic effect,
inhibits contraction of smooth muscles.
inhibits group A Streptococcus bacteria

Cordyceps ( Dong Chong Cao ) 冬蟲草 use in large dosages and/or long term usage can be toxic to kidneys.

According to the classics Medical Material, “Ben Cao Bei Yao” 本草備要, the best dong chong xia cao 冬蟲夏草, are produced in Sichuan. Today, most of them are produced in Xizang (Tibet) and Qinghai. Because the sizes the larvae are larger, they fetch higher prices.

According to the classics Medical Material, “Ben Cao Bei Yao” 本草備要, the best dong chong xia cao 冬蟲夏草, are produced in Sichuan. Today, most of them are produced in Xizang (Tibet) and Qinghai. Because the sizes the larvae are larger, they fetch higher prices.

Taxonomic History/ Systematics

Caterpillars with emergingOphiocordyceps sinensis

Morphological Features

Similar to other Cordyceps]] species, O. sinensis consists of two parts, a fungal endosclerotium (caterpillar) and stroma.^[2] The stroma is the upper fungal part and is dark brown or black, but can be a yellow color when fresh and, longer than the caterpillar itself, usually 4–10 cm. It grows singly from the larval head, and is clavate, sublanceolate or fusiform and distinct from the stipe.^[9] The stipe is slender, glabrous, and longitudinally furrowed or ridged. The fertile part of the stroma is the head. The head is granular due to the ostioles of the embedded perithecia.^[2] The perithecia are ordinally arranged and ovoid ^[9] The asci are cylindrical or slightly tapering at both ends, and may be straight or curved, with a capitate and hemispheroid apex and may be two to four spored.^[2] Similarly, ascospores are hyaline, filiform, multiseptate at a length of 5-12 um and subattenuated on both sides.^[9] Perithecial, ascus and ascospore characters in the fruiting bodies are the key identification characteristics of O. sinensis. Ophiocordyceps (Petch) Kobayasi species produce whole ascospores and do not separate into part spores which is different from other Cordyceps species, which produce either immersed or superficial perithecia perpendicular to stromal surface and the ascospores at maturity are disarticulated into part spores.^[10] Generally Cordyceps species possess brightly colored and fleshy stromata, but O. sinensis had dark pigments and tough to pliant stromata, a typical characteristic feature of most of the Ophiocordyceps species.^[3]

Important developments in Classification

The species was first described scientifically by Miles Berkeley in 1843 as Sphaeria sinensis;^[11] Pier Andrea Saccardo transferred the species to the genus Cordyceps in 1878.^[12]The scientific name‘s etymology is from the Latin cord “club”, ceps “head”, and sinensis “from China“. The fungus was known as Cordyceps sinensis until 2007, when molecularanalysis was used to emend the classification of the Cordycipitaceae and the Clavicipitaceae, resulting in the naming of a new family Ophiocordycipitaceae and the transfer of several Cordyceps species to Ophiocordyceps.^[10] Based on a molecular phylogenetic study, Sung et al. (2007) separated the megagenus Cordyceps into four genera as it was polyphyletic, viz. Cordyceps (40 spp.), Ophiocordyceps (146 spp.), Metacordyceps (6 spp.) and Elaphocordyceps (21 spp.), while the remaining 175 spp. were left in Cordyceps. As a result, C. sinensis was transferred to Ophiocordyceps, hence renamed as O. sinensis.^[2]

Common Names[edit]

In Tibetan it is known as དབྱར་རྩྭ་དགུན་འབུ་ (ZYPY: yartsa gunbu, Wylie: dbyar rtswa dgun ‘bu, “summer grass winter bug”), which is the source of the Nepali यार्शागुम्बा, yarshagumba,yarchagumba or yarsagumba. The transliteration in Bhutan is Yartsa Guenboob. It is known as keera jhar, keeda jadi, keeda ghas or ‘ghaas fafoond in Hindi. Its name in Chinese Dōng chóng xià cǎo (冬蟲夏草) means “winter worm, summer grass” (i.e., “worm in the winter, [turns to] plant in the summer”). The Chinese name is a literal translation of the original Tibetan name, which was first recorded in the 15th Century by the Tibetan doctor Zurkhar Namnyi Dorje. In colloquial Tibetan Yartsa gunbu is often shortened to simply “bu” or “yartsa”.

In traditional Chinese medicine, its name is often abbreviated as chong cao (蟲草 “insect plant”), a name that also applies to other Cordyceps species, such as C. militaris. InJapanese, it is known by the Japanese reading of the characters for the Chinese name, tōchūkasō (冬虫夏草).

Strangely, sometimes in Chinese English language texts Cordyceps sinensis is referred to as aweto [Hill H. Art. XXXVI: The Vegetable Caterpillar (Cordiceps robertsii). Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand 1868-1961. Vol 34, 1901;396-401], which is the Māori name for Cordyceps robertsii, a species from New Zealand.

The English term “vegetable caterpillar” is a misnomer, as no plant is involved. “Caterpillar fungus” is a preferable term.

Nomenclature of the anamorph

Since the 1980s, 22 species in 13 genera have been attributed to the anamorph of O. sinensis. Of the 22 species, Cephalosporium acreomonium is the zygomycetous species ofUmbelopsis, Chrysosporium sinense has very low similarity in RAPD polymorphism, hence it is not the anamorph. Likewise, Cephalosporium dongchongxiacae, C. sp. sensu,Hirsutella sinensis and H. hepiali and Synnematium sinnense are synonymous and only H. sinensis is only validly published in articles. Cephalosporium sinensis possibly might be synonymous to H. sinensis but there is lack of valid information. Isaria farinose is combined to Paecilomyces farinosus and is not the anamorph. Several species like Isaria sp. Verticella sp. Scydalium sp. Stachybotrys sp. were identified only up to generic level, and thus it is dubious that they are anamorph. Mortierella hepiali is discarded as anamorph as it belongs to Zygomycota. Paecilomyces sinensis and Sporothrix insectorum are discarded based on the molecular evidence. P. lingi appeared only in one article and thus is discarded due to incomplete information. Tolypocladium sinense, P. hepiali, and Scydalium hepiali, have no valid information and thus are not considered as anamorph toOphiocordyceps sinensis. V. sinensis is not considered anamorph as there is no valid published information. Similarly, Metarhizium anisopliae is not considered anamorph as it has widely distributed host range, and is not restricted only in high altitude.^[13] Thus Hirsutella sinensis is considered the validly published anamorph of O. sinensis. Cordyceps nepalensis and C. multiaxialis which had similar morphological characteristics to C. sinensis, also had almost identical or identical ITS sequences and its presumed anamorph, H. sinensis. This also confirms H. sinensis to be anamorph of O. sinensis and suggests C. nepalensis and C. multiaxialis are synonyms.^[14] Evidence based on microcyclic conidiation from ascospores and molecular studies ^[2] support H. sinensis as the anamorph of the caterpillar fungus, O. sinensis.

Ecology

The caterpillars prone to infection by O. sinensis generally live 6 inches underground ^[4] in alpine grass and shrub-lands on the Tibetan Plateau and the Himalayas at an altitude between 3,000 and 5,000 m (9,800 and 16,400 ft). The fungus is reported from the northern range of Nepal, Bhutan, and also from the northern states of India, apart from northern Yunnan, eastern Qinghai, eastern Tibet, western Sichuan, southwestern Gansu provinces.^[4] The fungus consumes its host from inside out as they hibernate in alpine meadows. Usually the larvae are more vulnerable after shedding their skin, during late summer. The fungal fruiting body disperses spores which infect the caterpillar. The infected larvae tend to remain vertical to the soil surface with their heads up. The fungus then germinates in the living larva, kills and mummifies it, and then the stalk-like fruiting body emerges from the head and the fungus finally emerges from the soil by early spring.^[15] Fifty-seven taxa from seven genera (1 Bipectilus, 1 Endoclita, 1 Gazoryctra, 12 Hepialus, 2Magnificus, 3 Pharmacis, and 37 Thitarodes ^[3]) are recognized as potential hosts of O. sinensis.

Reproduction Biology

Ophiocordyceps sinensis has both teleomorphic and anamorphic phases. Spending up to five years underground before pupating, the Thitarodes caterpillar is attacked while feeding on roots. It is not certain how the fungus infects the caterpillar; possibly by ingestion of a fungal spore or by the fungus mycelium invading the insect through one of the insect’s breathing pores. The dark brown to black fruiting body (or mushroom) emerges from the ground in spring or early summer, the long, usually columnar fruiting body reaches 5–15 cm above the surface and releases spores.

In late autumn, chemicals on the skin of the caterpillar interact with the fungal spores and release the fungal mycelia, which then infects the caterpillar.^[4] After invading a host larva, the fungus ramifies throughout the host and eventually kills it. Gradually the host larvae become rigid due to the production of fungal sclerotia. Fungal sclerotia are multihyphal structures that can remain dormant and then germinate to produce spores. After over-wintering, the fungus ruptures the host body, forming a sexual sporulating structure (a perithecial stroma) from the larval head in summer that is connected to the sclerotia (dead larva) below ground and grows upward to emerge from the soil.^[16] The slow growing O. sinensis grows at a comparatively low temperature, i.e., below 21^oC. Temperature requirements and growth rates are crucial factors that identify O. sinensis from other similar fungi.^[3]

Use in medicine

It is used as a curative to many diseases, anti- aging,^[17] hypoglycemic,^[18] aphrodisiac and also treatment against cancer. Ophiocordyceps sinensis serves against kidney and lung problems and stimulates the immune system; it is used for treatment of fatigue, night sweating, respiratory disease, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, asthenia after severe illness, arrhythmias and other heart diseases and liver disease.^[4]

Traditional Asian medicines

Weighing the precious Caterpillar fungus in Yushu, Southern Qinghai,China, imported from Nepal

Medicinal use of the caterpillar fungus apparently originated in Tibet and Nepal. So far the oldest known text documenting its use was written in the late fourteen hundreds by the Tibetan doctor Zurkhar Nyamnyi Dorje (Wylie: Zur mkhar mnyam nyid rdo rje)[1439-1475]) in his text: Man ngag bye ba ring bsrel (“Instructions on a Myriad of Medicines”). A translation is available at Winkler.^[19]

The first mention of Ophiocordyceps sinensis in traditional Chinese Medicine was in Wang Ang’s 1694 compendium of materia medica, Ben Cao Bei Yao.^[20] In the 18th Century it was listed in Wu Yiluo‘s Ben cao cong xin (“New compilation of materia medica”).^[21] No sources have been published to uphold widespread claims of “thousands of years of use in Chinese medicine” or use of “chong cao since the 7th Century Tang Dynasty in China”. The ethno-mycological knowledge on caterpillar fungus among the Nepalese people is documented byDevkota(2006) The entire fungus-caterpillar combination is hand-collected for medicinal use.

The fungus is a medicinal mushroom which is highly prized by practitioners of Tibetan medicine, Chinese medicine and traditional Folk medicines, in which it is used as an aphrodisiac and as a treatment for a variety of ailments from fatigue to cancer. In Chinese medicine it is regarded as having an excellent balance of yin and yang as it is apparently both animal and vegetable. Assays have found thatOphiocordyceps species produce many pharmacologically active substances. They are now cultivated on an industrial scale for their medicinal value. However, no one has succeeded so far in growing the larva cum mushroom artificially. The biological process that forms the Ophiocordyceps is still unknown and true cultivation has yet to be realized.^[3] All artificial products are derived from mycelia grown on grains or in liquids.

According to Bensky et al. (2004), laboratory-grown C. sinensis mycelia have similar clinical efficacy and less associated toxicity. He notes a toxicity case of constipation, abdominal distension, and decreased peristalsis, two cases of irregular menstruation, and one case report ofamenorrhea following ingestion of tablets or capsules containing C. sinensis. In Chinese medicine C. sinensis is considered sweet and warm, entering the lung and kidney channels; the typical dosage is 3–9 grams.^[22]

Research

Cordycepin, a compound isolated from the “Caterpillar fungus”.

Some work has been published in which Ophiocordyceps sinensis has been used to protect the bone marrow and digestive systems ofmice from whole body irradiation.^[23] An experiment noted Ophiocordyceps sinensis may protect the liver from damage.^[24] An experiment conducted with mice noted the mushroom may have an anti-depressant effect.^[25] Researchers have noted that the caterpillar fungus has ahypoglycemic effect and may be beneficial for people with insulin resistance.^[26]^[27]^[28]^[29]^[30] There is also experimental evidence of the supposed energizing effect of the fungus, as it has been shown to increase endurance through heightened ATP production in rats.^[8]

A March 2013 study on Cordyceps Sinensis documented the medicinal fungus’ anti-inflammatory properties.^[31] Scientists were able to show Cordyceps Sinensis’ ability to suppress interleukin-1b and interleukin-18 secretion by inhibiting both canonical and non-canonical inflammasomes. Inflammasomes have long been associated with auto-inflammatory diseases, such as gout. The study used a specific anamorphic mycelial form of Cordyceps Sinensis known as Hirsutella Sinensis.

Introduction to the Western world

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Ophiocordyceps sinensis

The Western world was largely unaware of Ophiocordyceps prior to 1993. The fungus dramatically caught the world’s eye due to the performance of three female Chinese athletes, Wang Junxia, Qu Yunxia, and Zhang Linli. These athletes broke five world records for 1,500, 3,000 and 10,000 meter dashes at the National Games in Beijing, China. The number of new world records set at a single track event attracted much attention and suspicion. Following the races, the women were expected by some to fail drug tests for anabolic steroids. However, the athletes’ tests revealed no illegal substances, and coach Ma Junren told the reporters that the runners were takingOphiocordyceps sinensis and turtle blood at his request. However for the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Ma Junren withdrew some of his athletes at the last minute. It was speculated that a new doping test would have revealed illegal substances, thus half a dozen Chinese field and track athletes were left at home.

Economics and impact

Many shops in downtown Lanzhouadvertise Dōng chóng xià cǎo (冬虫夏草) among other local specialties.

In rural Tibet, yartsa gunbu has become the most important source of cash income. The fungi contributed 40% of the annual cash income to local households and 8.5% to the GDP in 2004. Prices have increased continuously, especially since the late 1990s. In 2008, one kilogram traded for US$3,000 (lowest quality) to over US$18,000 (best quality, largest larvae). The annual production on the Tibetan Plateau was estimated in 2009 at 80–175 tons.^[32] The Himalayan Ophiocordyceps production might not exceed a few tons.

In 2004 the value of a kilogram of caterpillars was estimated at about 30,000 to 60,000 Nepali rupees in Nepal, and about Rs 100,000 in India.^[33] In 2011 the value of a kilogram of caterpillars was estimated at about 350,000 to 450,000 Nepali rupees in Nepal. A 2012 BBC article indicated that in north Indian villages a single fungus was worth Rs 150 (about £2 or $3), which is more than the daily wage of a manual laborer.^[34]

According to Daniel Winkler, the price of Ophiocordyceps sinensis has risen dramatically on the Tibetan Plateau, basically 900% between 1998 and 2008, an annual average of over 20% (after inflation). However, the value of big sized caterpillar fungus has increased more dramatically than smaller size Cordyceps, regarded as lower quality.^[20]

Year	% Price Increase	Price/kg (Yuan)
1980s		1,800
1997	467% (incl. inflation)	8,400
2004	429% (incl. inflation)	36,000
2005		10,000–60,000
2013		125,000–500,000

Because of its high value, inter-village conflicts over access to its grassland habitats has become a headache for the local governing bodies and in several cases people were killed. In November 2011, a court in Nepal convicted 19 villagers over the murder of a group of farmers during a fight over the prized aphrodisiac fungus. Seven farmers were killed in the remote northern district of Manang in June 2009 after going to forage for Yarchagumba. ^[35]

Its value gave it a role in the Nepalese Civil War, as the Nepalese Maoists and government forces fought for control of the lucrative export trade during the June–July harvest season.^[36] Collecting yarchagumba in Nepal had only been legalised in 2001, and now demand is highest in countries such as China, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea and Japan. By 2002, the herb was valued at R 105,000 ($1,435) per kilogram, allowing the government to charge a royalty of R 20,000 ($280) per kilogram.

The search for Ophiocordyceps sinensis is often perceived to pose a threat to the environment of the Tibetan Plateau where it grows. While it has been collected for centuries and is still common in such areas, current collection rates are much higher than in historical times.

Ophiocordyceps producers like to perpetuate the story that unscrupulous harvesters insert twigs into the ascocarps of wild C. sinensis to increase their weight and therefore the price paid. A tiny twig is only used when the ascocarp is broken from the caterpillar, and has nothing to do with artificially increasing weight. Supposedly, at some point in the past, someone inserted lead wires with which to increase weight; however, each year hundreds of millions of specimens are harvested and this appears to have been a one-time occurrence.

Cultivated C. sinensis mycelium is an alternative to wild-harvested C. sinensis, and producers claim it may offer improved consistency. Artificial culture of C. sinensis is typically by growth of pure mycelia in liquid culture (in China) or on grains (in the West). The first time in Vietnam, Prof. Aca. Dr. Dai Duy Ban together with scientists and DAIBIO Company and DAIBIO Great Traditional Medicine Family Clinic discovered the Cordyceps sinensis as Isaria cerambycidae N.SP. to develop Fermentation DAIBIO Cordyceps Sinensis.^[37]Ascocarps are not produced through in vitro cultivation.

References

“Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.) G.H. Sung, J.M. Sung, Hywel-Jones & Spatafora 2007″. MycoBank. International Mycological Association. Retrieved 2011-07-19.
Shrestha, B., Weimin, Z., Yongjie, Z., & Xingzhong, L. (2010). What is the Chinese caterpillar fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Ophiocordycipitaceae)?. Mycology: An International Journal On Fungal Biology, 1(4), 228-236. doi:10.1080/21501203.2010.536791.
Hsieh, C., et al., A Systematic Review of the Mysterious Caterpillar Fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis in Dong-ChongXiaCao and Related Bioactive Ingredients. Vol. 3. 2013. 16-32.
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Sung, G. H., et al. (2007). “A multi-gene phylogeny of Clavicipitaceae (Ascomycota, Fungi): identification of localized incongruence using a combinational bootstrap approach.” Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 44(3): 1204-1223.
Sung GH, Hywel-Jones NL, Sung JM, Luangsa-Ard JJ, Shrestha B, Spatafora JW. (2007). “Phylogenetic classification of Cordyceps and the clavicipitaceous fungi”.Studies in Mycology 57: 5–59. doi:10.3114/sim.2007.57.01. PMC 2104736.PMID 18490993.
Berkeley MJ. (1843). “On some entomogenous Sphaeriae”. London Journal of Botany 2: 205–11.
Saccardo PA. (1878). “Enumeratio Pyrenomycetum Hypocreaceorum hucusque cognitorum systemate carpologico dispositorum” (PDF). Michelia (in Latin) 1 (3): 277–325.
Jiang, Y. Y., & Yao, Y. J. (n.d). Names related to Cordyceps sinensis anamorph. Mycotaxon, 84245-254.
Liu, Z., Liang, Z., Liu, A., Yao, Y., Hyde, K. D., & Yu, Z. (n.d). Molecular evidence for teleomorph-anamorph connections in Cordyceps based on ITS-5.8S rDNA sequences. Mycological Research, 106(9), 1100-1108.
Stone, R. (2008). Last Stand for the Body Snatcher of the Himalayas?. Science, (5905), 1182. doi:10.2307/20145300
Xing, X. K., & Guo, S. X. (2008). The Structure and Histochemistry of Sclerotia of Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Mycologia, (4), 616. doi:10.2307/20444986.
Ji DB, Ye J, Li CL, Wang YH, Zhao J, Cai SQ (2009) Antiaging effect of Cordyceps sinensis extract. Phytotherapy Research 23 (1): 116-122. Doi: 10.1002/ptr.2576
Zhang GQ, Huang YD, Bian Y, Wong JH, Ng TB, Wang HX (2006) Hypoglycemic activity of the fungus Cordyceps militaris, Cordyceps sinensis, Tricholoma mongolicum and Omphalia lapidescens in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology 72 (6): 1152-1156. Doi: 10.1007/s00253-006-0411-9.
Winkler D. (2008). “The mushrooming fungi market in Tibet exemplified by Cordyceps sinensis and Tricholoma matsutake“. Journal of the International Association of Tibetan Studies. In: In the Shadow of the Leaping Dragon: Demography, Development, and the Environment in Tibetan Areas (4).
Winkler D. (2008). “Yartsa Gunbu (Cordyceps sinensis) and the fungal commodification of the rural economy in Tibet AR”. Economic Botany 62 (3): 291–305.doi:10.1007/s12231-008-9038-3.
Wu Y (1757). “Ben cao cong xin” – “New compilation of materia medica” (in Chinese).
Jump up^ Bensky D, Gamble A, Clavey S, Stöger E, Bensky L. Lai (2004). Materia Medica: Chinese Herbal Medicine (3rd ed.). Seattle, Washington: Eastland Press. ISBN 978-0-939616-42-8.
Liu W-C, Wang S-C, Tsai M-L, Chen, M-C, Wang Y-C, Hong J-H, McBride WH, Chiang C-S. (2006). “Protection against radiation-induced bone marrow and intestinal injuries byCordyceps sinensis, a Chinese herbal medicine”. Radiation Research 166 (6): 900–907.doi:10.1667/RR0670.1. PMID 17149981.
WS, Hsu SL, Chyau CC, Chen KC, Peng RY. (July 2009). “Compound Cordyceps TCM-700C exhibits potent hepatoprotective capability in animal model”. Fitoterapia 81(1): 1–7. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2009.06.018. PMID 19596425.
Nishizawa K, Torii K, Kawasaki A, et al. (2007). “Antidepressant-like effect ofCordyceps sinensis in the mouse tail suspension test”. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin 30 (9): 1758–62. doi:10.1248/bpb.30.1758. PMID 17827735.
Kiho T, Hui J, Yamane A, Ukai S. (1993). “Polysaccharides in fungi. XXXII. Hypoglycemic activity and chemical properties of a polysaccharide from the cultural mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis“. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin 16 (12): 1291–3. doi:10.1248/bpb.16.1291. PMID 8130781.
Kiho T, Yamane A, Hui J, Usui S, Ukai S. (1996). “Polysaccharides in fungi. XXXVI. Hypoglycemic activity of a polysaccharide (CS-F30) from the cultural mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis and its effect on glucose metabolism in mouse liver”. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin 19 (2): 294–6. doi:10.1248/bpb.19.294. PMID 8850325.
Zhao CS, Yin WT, Wang JY, et al. (2002). “CordyMax Cs-4 improves glucose metabolism and increases insulin sensitivity in normal rats”. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 8 (3): 309–14. doi:10.1089/10755530260127998.PMID 12165188.
Lo HC, Tu ST, Lin KC, Lin SC. (2004). “The anti-hyperglycemic activity of the fruiting body of Cordyceps in diabetic rats induced by nicotinamide and streptozotocin”. Life Sciences 74 (23): 2897–908. doi:10.1016/j.lfs.2003.11.003. PMID 15050427.
Li SP, Zhang GH, Zeng Q, et al. (2006). “Hypoglycemic activity of polysaccharide, with antioxidation, isolated from cultured Cordyceps mycelia”. Phytomedicine 13 (6): 428–33.doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2005.02.002. PMID 16716913.
Huang, T. et al. (March 2013). “Hirsutella sinensis mycelium suppresses interleukin-1b and interleukin-18 secretion by inhibiting both canonical and non-canonical inflammasomes.” (PDF). Scientific Report. 3, 1374;.
Winkler, D. (2009). “Caterpillar Fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) Production and Sustainability on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas”. Asian Medicine 5 (2): 291. doi:10.1163/157342109X568829. edit
Sharma S. (2004). “Trade of Cordyceps sinensis from high altitudes of the Indian Himalaya: Conservation and biotechnological priorities” (PDF). Current Science 86(12): 1614–9.
Jeffrey, Craig (2012-07-07). “The ‘Viagra’ transforming local economies in India”. BBC News. Retrieved July 9, 2012.
Staff (14 November 2011) ‘Himalayan viagra’: Six men get life for Nepal murders BBC News Asia, Retrieved 9 July 2012
Baral N, Heinen JT. (2005). “The Maoist people’s war and conservation in Nepal”.Politics and the Life Sciences 24 (1): 2–11. doi:10.2990/1471-5457(2005)24[2:TMPWAC]2.0.CO;2.
DAIBIO Cordyceps Sinensis in Vietnam

Winkler, D. 2005. Yartsa Gunbu – Cordyceps sinensis. Economy, Ecology & Ethno-mycology of a Fungus Endemic to the Tibetan Plateau. In: A.BOESI & F. CARDI (eds.). Wildlife and plants in traditional and modern Tibet: Conceptions, Exploitation and Conservation. Memorie della Società Italiana di Scienze Naturali e del Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano, Vol. 33.1:69–85.
Zhang Y., Zhang S., Wang M., Bai F. & Liu X. (2010). “High Diversity of the Fungal Community Structure in Naturally-Occurring Ophiocordyceps sinensis“. PLoS ONE 5(12): e15570. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0015570.

External links

Yartsa Gunbu (Cordyceps sinensis) in Tibet

Daniel Winkler’s Cordyceps blog
Nepal’s Nature – The Himalayan Viagra
Page at Everything2.com
Image gallery of Cordyceps sinensis
The first time in Vietnam, Prof.Aca.D.Sc Dai Duy Ban with his scientists discovered Cordyceps Sinensis as Isaria cerambycidae N.SP. and Fermentation Daibio Cordyceps Sinensis by Daibio Great Family Traditional Medicine Clinic Company
Daibio Cordyceps Sinensis in Vietnam
An Electronic Monograph of Cordyceps and Related Fungi
Cordyceps information from Drugs.com
Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. Medicinal Plant Images Database (School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University) (English) (traditional Chinese)
Chinese Caterpiller Fungus Chinese Medicine Specimen Database (School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University) (English) (traditional Chinese)
Tibet’s Golden “Worm” August 2012 National Geographic (magazine)

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

March 29, 2014 8:38 am / 4 Comments on Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

Xing Ren is the mature seed of Prunus armeniaca L. var. ansu Maxim, P. armeniaca L., P. mandshurica (Maxim.) Koehne or P. sibirica L., family Rosaceae.

Main ingredients
Xing Ren contains 50% of fatty oils (including oleic, linoleic. palmitic, stearic and linolenic acids), as well as amygdalin, amygdalase and prunase. Hydrolysing amygdalin generates benzaldehyde and hydrocyanic acid, which is toxic

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 , also known as xing ren 杏仁，ku xing ren 苦杏仁，kuang xing ren 光杏仁，ku he ren 杏核仁，炒杏仁，jian xing ren 尖杏仁，xing ren xiang 杏仁霜. It belong to the “Rosaceae” family.

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 has a warm, bitter and slightly toxic. It is use for treating the lung and large intestine.

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 Chinese Herbal Articles was created to help cleanse and rejuvenate your body enable you to stay younger and healthier with chinese herbal recipes.

Pharmaceutical Name: Semen Armeniacae.Botanical Name: 1. Prunus armeniaca L. var. ansu maxim.; 2. Prunus mandshurica(Maxim.) Koehne; 3. Prunus sibirica L.

Common Name: Apricot seed, Bitter apricot seed or kernel.Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing.Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical

Preparations: The seeds are collected after the apricot ripens in summer. They are then dried in the sun and pounded into pieces.Properties & Taste: Bitter, slightly warm and slightly toxic.Meridians: Lung and large intestine.

Functions: 1. To stop cough and relieve asthma; 2. To moisten the intestines and move stool.Indications & Combinations:1. Cough and asthma: a) cough due to invasion by exogenous pathogenic wind and heat Apricot seed (Xingren) is used with Mulberry leaf (Sangye) and Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua) in the formula Sang Ju Yin; b) cough due to dysfunction of the lungs caused by dryness and heatApricot seed (Xingren) is used with Mulberry leaf (Sangye), Tendrilled fritillary bulb (Chuanbeimu) and Glehnia root (Shashen) in the formula Sang Xing Tang; c) cough and asthma due to accumulated heat in the lungsApricot seed (Xingren) is used with Gypsum (Shigao) and Ephedra (Mahuang) in the formula Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang.2. Constipation due to dryness in the intestines: Apricot seed (Xingren) is used with Hemp seed (Huomaren) and Chinese angelica root (Danggui) in the formula Runchang Wan.Dosage: 3-10 g.Cautions & Contraindications: This herb is slightly toxic, so overdosing should be avoided. It should be used with caution in infants.

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

1. Arresting coughing and asthma.
2. Expelling phlegm.
3. Help bowel movements.

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 Toxicity & Cautions:

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 contain hydrogen cyanide which is a strong toxin. Eating 20 to 30 piece may cause toxic reaction even death. The toxin can be hydrolyzed in cooking and can render it non toxic. It is not recommended for small children.

Properties
Taste: bitter; nature: slightly warm; slightly toxic.

Channels entered
Lung and Large Intestine.

Functions and indications
Stops coughing and calms wheezing, moistens the Intestines and frees the bowels. It is indicated for coughing and wheezing, sore throat andconstipation.

Common dosage
3-10g, decocted for a short time only.

Precautions and contraindications

As Xing Ren is slightly toxic, large dosages should be avoided, especially when treating infants.
Contraindicated in cases of weak constitution and profuse sweating.

Remarks
Ku Xing Ren (Semen Pruni Armeniacae Amarum), or bitter apricot kernel, is normally used for this herb.

In China, people who can afford to buy apricot as a fresh fruit generally throw the stones away. Servants and the less fortunate children gatherthe stones and sell them to collectors who use cheap labor to crack the shells (endocarp) and free the seeds (kernel) with the brown seed coat tightly covering the embryo (two cotyledons with the small radical and plumule).

In Chinese prescriptions, an apricot seed with the brown seed coat intact is called bei-xing-ren (northern apricot seed). All Chinese apothecaries keep a supply of apricot seeds in this state.

Detoxificated apricot seed: The major portion of the annual production of apricot seed is detoxified, processed by being first subjected to boiling water to loosen the seed coat, which can then be rubbed off by hand, followed by soaking the white cotyledons in cold water with several changes to eliminate the bitter element and to detoxify them. Then the detoxified white cotyledons are dried for the market. In Chinese prescriptions, this decoated and detoxified material is called nan-xing-ren (southern apricot seed) or tian-xing-ren (sweet apricot seed), which is also available in apothecaries. However, a greater portion of the detoxified material is used in pastry and for food.

Toxicity
The LD for intravenous injection of amygdalin in mice or rats is 25g/kg; for intraperitoneal injection, it is 8g/kg; and for oraladministration, it is O.6g/kg. Oral administration of 55 pieces (the equivalem of about 60g) of Ku Xing Ren, containing 1.8g of amygdalin, can cause death in humans. The main symptoms oftoxic reaction include a bitter taste in the mouth, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen, diarrhoea, agitation, vexation and restlessness, palpitations, and weakness of the limbs, and in severe cases, oppression in the chest, difficulty in breathing, loss of consciousness, a reduction in blood pressure and even coma. Ku Xing Ren should therefore not be used raw and overdosage must be avoided.

Modern Research

Inhibits the respiratory centre to stop coughing and calmwheezing.
Affects digestion by inhibiting the activity of pepsins.
Reduces the level of blood fats.
Inhibits inflammation and alleviates pain.
Inhibits carcinoma

This Little Known Chinese Herb Kills 12,000 Cancer Cells For Every Healthy Cell

March 27, 2014 5:13 am / 5 Comments on This Little Known Chinese Herb Kills 12,000 Cancer Cells For Every Healthy Cell

WORMWOOD PLANT

This Little Known Chinese Herb Kills 12,000 Cancer Cells For Every Healthy Cell

collective-evolution.com

Today, odds are that you have had/have cancer, or know somebody who does. In Canada, approximately one million Canadians that were alive at…

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A little known Chinese herb might be eligible for the growing list of cancer killers via alternative methods of treatment. According to studies published in Life Sciences, Cancer Letters and Anticancer Drugs, artemesinin, a derivative of the wormwood plant commonly used in Chinese medicine, can kill off cancer cells, and do it at a rate of 12,000 cancer cells for every healthy cell.

Artemisinin is currently FDA approved for the treatment of malaria, it’s very safe and easy to use. It’s inexpensive and works on all cancers but has yet to find it’s way into the mainstream. It’s really time to move beyond just radiation, surgery and chemotherapy for the treatment of cancer.

artemisinin

“Artemisinin reacts with iron to form free radicals that kill cells. Since cancer cells uptake relatively larger amounts of iron than normal cells, they are more susceptible to the toxic effect of artemisinin. In previous research, we have shown that artemisinin is more drawn to cancer cells than to normal cells. In the present research, we covalently attached artemisinin to the iron-carying plasma glycoprotein transferrin.Transferrin is transported into the cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis and cancer cells express significantly more transferrin receptors on their cell surface and endocytose more transferrin than normal cells. Thus, we hypothesize that by tagging artemisinin to transferrin, both iron and artemisinin would be transported into cancer cells in one package. Once inside a cell, iron is released and can readily react with artemisinin close by tagged to the transferrin. This would enhance the toxicity and selectivity of artemisinin towards cancer cells. We found that holotransferrin-tagged artemisinin, when compared with artemisinin, was very potent and selective in killing cancer cells. Thus, this ‘tagged-compound’ could potentially be developed into an effective chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment.”

Wormwood

Other common name(s): absinthium, absinth wormwood

Scientific/medical name(s): Artemisia absinthium

Description

Wormwood is a shrubby perennial plant whose upper shoots, flowers, and leaves are used in herbal remedies and as a bitter flavoring for alcoholic drinks. It is native to Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia, and now also grows in North America.

Overview

Available scientific evidence does not support claims that wormwood is effective in treating cancer, the side effects of cancer treatment, or any other conditions. The plant contains a volatile oil with a high level of thujone (see Thuja). There are reports that taking large doses of wormwood internally can cause serious problems with the liver and kidneys. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, seizures, numbness of the legs and arms, delirium, and paralysis.

Wormwood, or Artemisia absinthium, should not be confused with sweet wormwood, or Artemisia annua. Although wormwood is related to sweet wormwood, they are used in different ways. Extracts of sweet wormwood have been used in traditional herbal medicine, and an active ingredient, artemisinin, is now used in conventional medical treatment of malaria.

How is it promoted for use?

Wormwood is promoted as a sedative and anti-inflammatory. There are also claims that it can treat loss of appetite, stomach disorders, and liver and gallbladder complaints. In folk medicine it is used for a wide range of stomach disorders, fever, and irregular menstruation. It is also used to fight intestinal worms. Externally, it is applied to poorly healing wounds, ulcers, skin blotches, and insect bites. It is used in Moxibustion treatments for cancer (seeMoxibustion). Available scientific evidence does not support these claims.

What does it involve?

Wormwood is taken in small doses for a short period of time, usually a maximum of 4 weeks. It is available as a capsule and as a liquid that can be added to water to make a tincture. The whole herb is sometimes brewed as a tea. Wormwood oil, washes, or poultices can also be used on the skin. Although pure wormwood is not available, “thujone-free” wormwood extract has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in foods and as a flavoring in alcoholic drinks such as vermouth.

What is the history behind it?

Artemisia absinthium was used by Hippocrates, and the earliest references to wormwood in Western civilization can be found in the Bible. Extract of wormwood was also used in ancient Egypt. The herb is mentioned often in first-century Greek and Roman writings and reportedly was placed in the sandals of Roman soldiers to help soothe their sore feet. It was taken as a treatment for tapeworms as far back as the Middle Ages.

In 1797, Henri Pernod developed absinthe, an alcoholic drink containing distilled spirits of wormwood, fennel, anise and sometimes other herbs. Absinthe became very popular in Europe and the United States in the nineteenth century. It was eventually banned in several countries in the early twentieth century due to its purported ill effects and addictive qualities. More recent analysis has suggested that, when properly prepared and distilled, the thujone content in these drinks was very low. It appears more likely that the addictiveness and other ill effects of absinthe were due to its alcohol content, which is around 60% to 85%. Varying additives or impurities from different distillers may have also produced some of these effects. Even though absinthe is illegal in some countries, various types can be found in some European countries. However, their thujone content is strictly limited. Wormwood is also an ingredient in vermouth and other drinks.

What is the evidence?

Available scientific studies do not support the use of wormwood for the treatment of cancer or the side effects of conventional cancer treatment. There is not enough evidence available to support its use for other conditions. Wormwood oil has been tested in laboratory studies and appears to inhibit the growth of some fungi. However, human tests have not been completed.

Some derivatives of Artemisia annua, or sweet wormwood, a relative of wormwood, have been shown to be effective in the treatment of malaria. In fact, the World Health Organization approved artemisinin for use against malaria in Africa in 2004. These extracts also show some promise in laboratory studies as cancer treatment drugs. Further studies are required to find out whether the anti-cancer results apply to people. It is important to remember that extracted compounds are not the same as the whole herb, and study results are not likely to show the same effects.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

This product is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. Unlike companies that produce drugs (which must be tested before being sold), the companies that make supplements are not required to prove to the Food and Drug Administration that their supplements are safe or effective, as long as they don’t claim the supplements can prevent, treat, or cure any specific disease.

Some such products may not contain the amount of the herb or substance that is on the label, and some may include other substances (contaminants). Actual amounts per dose may vary between brands or even between different batches of the same brand. In 2007, the FDA wrote new rules to improve the quality of manufacturing for dietary supplements and the proper listing of supplement ingredients. But these rules do not address the safety of the ingredients or their effects on health.

Most such supplements have not been tested to find out if they interact with medicines, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Even though some reports of interactions and harmful effects may be published, full studies of interactions and effects are not often available. Because of these limitations, any information on ill effects and interactions below should be considered incomplete.

Wormwood should be avoided, especially by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, by people who have had seizures, and by those with ulcers or stomach irritation. Thujone, a component of wormwood, is known to cause muscle spasms, seizures, and hallucinations if taken internally. In high doses it is known to damage the liver and the kidneys.

Because of its thujone content, large doses of wormwood taken internally can lead to vomiting, stomach and intestinal cramps, headaches, dizziness, nervous system problems, and seizures. Wormwood can also lead to liver failure. The New England Journal of Medicine reported that a man who ordered essential oil of wormwood over the Internet, thinking he had purchased absinthe, suffered liver failure shortly after drinking the oil. Wormwood may also make seizures more likely and may interfere with the anti-convulsant effects of medicines such as phenobarbital.

The plant is a relative of ragweed and daisies. Those with allergies to these types of plants may also be allergic to wormwood. Contact with wormwood can cause rash in some people.

Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.

Licorice मुलेठी, 甘草, شیرین بیان Inhibits 92% of Breast Cancer Cells & Slows Growth by 83% in Vivo:

March 27, 2014 3:34 am / 1 Comment on Licorice मुलेठी, 甘草, شیرین بیان Inhibits 92% of Breast Cancer Cells & Slows Growth by 83% in Vivo:

Licorice Inhibits 92% of Breast Cancer Cells & Slows Growth by 83% in Vivo:

Isoliquiritigenin

Isoliquiritigenin, a natural licorice compound, inhibited 92% of human breast cancer cells (both ER+ and triple-negative) in vitro after 48 hours of treatment in this new study. When given to mice, it resulted in breast tumors 83% smaller than untreated mice after 25 days.

Researchers discovered this licorice compound was not only cytotoxic to the breast cancer cells but also profoundly reduced the key angiogenesis factor VEGF by up to 85%, thus disabling the cancer from connecting new blood supplies to feed the tumors. Licorice is a powerful herb which has already shown strong activity against prostate cancer, colon cancer, cervical cancer, leukemia and others in lab studies.

Although used as a candy in the West, licorice root has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for treating asthma, allergies, stomach ache, insomnia, inflammation, viral infection and many other conditions. Licorice is also a proven adrenal booster, which makes it a great alternative to caffeine in fighting fatigue and boosting energy levels.

Bottom line: this super-herb could be a great addition to a healthy diet centered on organic vegetables, fruit and whole foods. And if you want to limit your sugar intake, it’s simple to make as a tea. read all this at

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23861918

Liquorice or licorice (/ˈlɪk(ə)rɪʃ/ lik-(ə-)rish or /ˈlɪk(ə)rɪs/ lik-(ə-)ris)^[2] is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra from which a somewhat sweet flavor can be extracted. The liquorice plant is a legume that is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. It is not botanically related to anise, star anise, or fennel, which are sources of similar flavouring compounds. The word ‘liquorice’/’licorice’ is derived (via the Old French licoresse), from the Greek γλυκύρριζα (glukurrhiza), meaning “sweet root”,^[3] from γλυκύς (glukus), “sweet”^[4] + ῥίζα (rhiza), “root”,^[5]^[6] the name provided by Dioscorides.^[7]

Description

It is a herbaceous perennial, growing to 1 m in height, with pinnate leaves about 7–15 cm (3–6 in) long, with 9–17 leaflets. The flowers are 0.8–1.2 cm (⅓–½ in) long, purple to pale whitish blue, produced in a loose inflorescence. The fruit is an oblong pod, 2–3 cm (1 in) long, containing several seeds.^[8]The roots are stoloniferous.^[9]

Chemistry

The scent of liquorice root comes from a complex and variable combination of compounds, of which anethole is the most minor component (0-3% of total volatiles). Much of the sweetness in liquorice comes from glycyrrhizin, which has a sweet taste, 30–50 times the sweetness of sugar. The sweetness is very different from sugar, being less instant and lasting longer.

The isoflavene glabrene and the isoflavane glabridin, found in the roots of liquorice, are xenoestrogens.^[10]^[11]

A, phase I metabolites of ILG formed during incubation with rat liver microsomes and NADPH. Based on accurate mass measurements, HPLC retention times, MS/MS analyses, and comparison with data reported by Guo et al. (18), the structures of metabolites M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, and M7 were assigned as liquiritigenin, 7,8,4′-trihydroxychalcone, sulfuretin, 7,3′,4′-trihydroxychalcone, davidigenin, trans-6,4′-dihydroxyaurone, and cis-6,4′-dihydroxyaurone, respectively. B, structures of ILG glucuronide conjugates formed by rat liver microsomes in the presence of UDPGA.

Cultivation and uses

Liquorice grows best in deep valleys, well-drained soils, with full sun, and is harvested in the autumn, two to three years after planting.^[8] Countries producing liquorice include Iran, Afghanistan, the People’s Republic of China, Pakistan, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Turkey.^[12]

The world’s leading manufacturer of liquorice products is M&F Worldwide, which manufactures more than 70% of the worldwide liquorice flavors sold to end-users.^[13]

Tobacco

Most liquorice is used as a flavoring agent for tobacco. For example, M&F Worldwide reported in 2011 that approximately 63% of its liquorice product sales are to the worldwide tobacco industry for use as tobacco flavor enhancing and moistening agents in the manufacture of American blend cigarettes, moist snuff, chewing tobacco and pipe tobacco.^[12] American blend cigarettes made up a larger portion of worldwide tobacco consumption in earlier years,^[14] and the percentage of liquorice products used by the tobacco industry was higher in the past. M&F Worldwide sold approximately 73% of its liquorice products to the tobacco industry in 2005,^[15] and a consultant to M&F Worldwide’s predecessor company stated in 1975 that it was believed that well over 90% of the total production of liquorice extract and its derivatives found its way into tobacco products.^[16]

Liquorice provides tobacco products with a natural sweetness and a distinctive flavor that blends readily with the natural and imitation flavoring components employed in the tobacco industry, represses harshness, and is not detectable as liquorice by the consumer.^[16] Tobacco flavorings such as liquorice also make it easier to inhale the smoke by creating bronchodilators, which open up the lungs.^[17] Chewing tobacco requires substantially higher levels of liquorice extract as emphasis on the sweet flavor appears highly desirable.^[16]

Food and candy

Medicine

Foliage

Glycyrrhiza glabra from Koehler’sMedicinal-Plants

References

“Glycyrrhiza glabra information from NPGS/GRIN”. http://www.ars-grin.gov. Retrieved 6 March 2008.
γλυκύρριζα, Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon, on Perseus
γλυκύς, Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon, on Perseus
ῥίζα, Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon, on Perseus<
liquorice, on Oxford Dictionaries
google books Maud Grieve, Manya Marshall – A modern herbal: the medicinal, culinary, cosmetic and economic properties, cultivation and folk-lore of herbs, grasses, fungi, shrubs, & trees with all their modern scientific uses, Volume 2 Dover Publications, 1982 & Pharmacist’s Guide to Medicinal Herbs Arthur M. Presser Smart Publications, 1 Apr 2001 2012-05-19
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Somjen, D.; Katzburg, S.; Vaya, J.; Kaye, A. M.; Hendel, D.; Posner, G. H.; Tamir, S. (2004). “Estrogenic activity of glabridin and glabrene from licorice roots on human osteoblasts and prepubertal rat skeletal tissues”. The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 91(4–5): 241–246. doi:10.1016/j.jsbmb.2004.04.008. PMID 15336701.
Tamir, S.; Eizenberg, M.; Somjen, D.; Izrael, S.; Vaya, J. (2001). “Estrogen-like activity of glabrene and other constituents isolated from licorice root”. The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology78 (3): 291–298. doi:10.1016/S0960-0760(01)00093-0.PMID 11595510.
M & F Worldwide Corp., Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended December 31, 2010.
M & F Worldwide Corp., Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended December 31, 2001.
Erik Assadourian, Cigarette Production Drops, Vital Signs 2005, at 70.
M & F Worldwide Corp., Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Year Ended December 31, 2005.
Marvin K. Cook, The Use of Licorice and Other Flavoring Material in Tobacco (Apr. 10, 1975).
Boeken v. Phillip Morris Inc., 127 Cal. App. 4th 1640, 1673, 26 Cal. Rptr. 3d 638, 664 (2005).
[1] the online Dutch food composition database]
“Right good food from the Ridings”. AboutFood.com. 25 October 2007.
“Where Liquorice Roots Go Deep”. Northern Echo. Retrieved 9 December 2008.
Licorice Calories
Liu Q, Garner P, Wang Y, Huang B, Smith H (2008). “Drugs and herbs given to prevent hepatotoxicity of tuberculosis therapy: systematic review of ingredients and evaluation studies”. BMC Public Health (Systematic review) 8: 365. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-8-365. PMC 2576232.PMID 18939987.
Sato, H; Goto, W; Yamamura, J; Kurokawa, M; Kageyama, S; Takahara, T; Watanabe, A; Shiraki, K (May 1996). “Therapeutic basis of glycyrrhizin on chronic hepatitis B.”. Antiviral Research 30 (2-3): 171–7.doi:10.1016/0166-3542(96)00942-4. PMID 8783808.
van Rossum, TG; Vulto, AG; de Man, RA; Brouwer, JT; Schalm, SW (March 1998). “Review article: glycyrrhizin as a potential treatment for chronic hepatitis C.” (PDF). Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics12 (3): 199–205. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2036.1998.00309.x.PMID 9570253.
Chien, CF; Wu, YT; Tsai, TH (January 2011). “Biological analysis of herbal medicines used for the treatment of liver diseases.”. Biomedical Chromatography 25 (1-2): 21–38. doi:10.1002/bmc.1568.PMID 21204110.
Yasui, S; Fujiwara, K; Tawada, A; Fukuda, Y; Nakano, M; Yokosuka, O (December 2011). “Efficacy of intravenous glycyrrhizin in the early stage of acute onset autoimmune hepatitis.”. Digestive Diseases and Sciences56 (12): 3638–47. doi:10.1007/s10620-011-1789-5.PMID 21681505.
Reuter, J; Merfort, I; Schempp, CM (2010). “Botanicals in dermatology: an evidence-based review.”. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology11 (4): 247–67. doi:10.2165/11533220-000000000-00000.PMID 20509719.
Hasani-Ranjbar, S; Nayebi, N; Moradi, L; Mehri, A; Larijani, B; Abdollahi, M (2010). “The efficacy and safety of herbal medicines used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia; a systematic review.”. Current pharmaceutical design 16 (26): 2935–47. PMID 20858178.
Callender, VD; St Surin-Lord, S; Davis, EC; Maclin, M (April 2011). “Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: etiologic and therapeutic considerations.”. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 12 (2): 87–99. doi:10.2165/11536930-000000000-00000. PMID 21348540.
Leyden, JJ; Shergill, B; Micali, G; Downie, J; Wallo, W (October 2011). “Natural options for the management of hyperpigmentation.”. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 25 (10): 1140–5. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2011.04130.x. PMID 21623927.
Kannappan, R; Gupta, SC; Kim, JH; Reuter, S; Aggarwal, BB (October 2011). “Neuroprotection by spice-derived nutraceuticals: you are what you eat!” (PDF). Molecular Neurobiology 44 (2): 142–59.doi:10.1007/s12035-011-8168-2. PMC 3183139.PMID 21360003.
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Messier, C; Epifano, F; Genovese, S; Grenier, D (January 2012). “Licorice and its potential beneficial effects in common oro-dental diseases.”. Oral Diseases 18 (1): 32–9. doi:10.1111/j.1601-0825.2011.01842.x. PMID 21851508.
Shibata, S (October 2000). “A drug over the millennia: pharmacognosy, chemistry, and pharmacology of licorice.”. Yakugaku Zasshi 120 (10): 849–62. PMID 11082698.
Fiore, C; Eisenhut, M; Ragazzi, E; Zanchin, G; Armanini, D (July 2005). “A history of the therapeutic use of liquorice in Europe.”. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 99 (3): 317–24. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2005.04.015.PMID 15978760.
Ming, LJ; Yin, AC (March 2013). “Therapeutic effects of glycyrrhizic acid.”. Natural Product Communications 8 (3): 415–8.PMID 23678825.
Bensky, Dan; et al. (2004). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, Third Edition. Eastland Press. ISBN 0-939616-42-4.
Das, S. K.; Das, V.; Gulati, A. K.; Singh, V. P. (1989). “Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice in aphthous ulcers”. The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India 37 (10): 647. PMID 2632514.
Krausse, R.; Bielenberg, J.; Blaschek, W.; Ullmann, U. (2004). “In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of Extractum liquiritiae, glycyrrhizin and its metabolites”. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy 54 (1): 243–246.doi:10.1093/jac/dkh287. PMID 15190039.
Olukoga, A; Donaldson, D (June 2000). “Liquorice and its health implications.”. The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health 120 (2): 83–9. doi:10.1177/146642400012000203.PMID 10944880.
Armanini, D; Fiore, C; Mattarello, MJ; Bielenberg, J; Palermo, M (September 2002). “History of the endocrine effects of licorice.”.Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & diabetes 110 (6): 257–61.doi:10.1055/s-2002-34587. PMID 12373628.

National Institute of Health – Medline
PDRhealth.com – Profile of Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Chemical & Engineering News article on Licorice
Non-profit site on the health aspects of licorice/liquorice
Medical use of irritation on chest

CHINESE HERBS……Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) can adjust gastrointestinal motility, fight ulcer, protect liver, improve immune system

March 26, 2014 7:38 am / Leave a comment

Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala)

Bai Zhu Atractylodes Macrocephala Awarded the title as The First Herb of Invigorating Qi and Strengthening Spleen, no doubt Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala) lives up to that reputation thanks for its consistent performance. As one of eight well-known medicinal specialties in Zhejiang province, this Chinese herb is produced mainly in Shao Xing.

Given its special effect in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is treated as an equal to Ren Shen (Ginseng). Thus an old saying goes: “Ren Shen in the north and Bai Zhu in the south.” Through the famous classic formula of Si Jun Zi Tang, Four Gentleman Decoction, a quick glance will be given to their significance. Just a quick footnote here, it is the fundamental formula for deficiency of spleen and stomach Qi, which is the inspiration source of numerous subsequent formulas aiming to tonify spleen and benefit vital energy.

What is Bai Zhu?

Also known as White Atractylodes Rhizome or Atractylodes Macrocephala Rhizome, it refers to the root of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., which is a perennial herb, 30 to 60 in height. Rhizome is fleshy and clenched like a fist. Stem is erect and branching in upper part. Leaves grow alternatively, 3-parted or undivided in upper stem, elliptic lobes, and margined with spinescents. This perennial flowering plant is with terminal capitulum, bell-shaped involucre, purple-red corolla, and slightly flattened ellipsoid achene. Flowering period is July to September and fruit-bearing stage is August to October.

The medicinal part is the root, which is collected in winter, dirt removed, dried over a fire or in the sun, and fibril removed. It clenches like a fist, 3 to 13cm long, and 1.5 to 7cm in diameter. The surface is grayish yellow or grayish brown in color, with tubercule and intermittent lengthwise wrinkles and fibril scars, and remnant stem base and bud scars on top. The texture is hard and difficult to break. Traverse cross section is uneven, yellowish white to light brown, and scattered with brownish yellow oil spots. It has a delicate fragrance and sweet but pungent taste. But it is sticky when chewing.

What is it used for?

Now modern researches show that it can adjust gastrointestinal motility, fight ulcer, protect liver, improve immune system, relieve stress, enhance hematopoietic function, induce diuresis, fight oxidation, slow down aging, regulate blood sugar level, and fight cancer. Compared with the traditional applications, above-mentioned findings is perfectly in line with them, which to some extent gives more scientific proof to this amazing herb.

Property and indications

From the TCM’s perspective, it is bitter, sweet, and warm in nature and goes to meridians of spleen and stomach. Main functions are to invigorate Qi and strengthen the spleen, eliminate dampness and promote diuresis, stop sweat, and prevent miscarriage. Main clinical usage and indications are lack of appetite due to spleen deficiency, abdominal distension and diarrhea, dizziness and palpitation caused by phlegm and retained fluid, edema, spontaneous sweating, and fetal irritability. Regular dosage is 6 to 12 grams.

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu )

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 Chinese Herbs Articles, also known as dong zhu 冬朮、xia zhu 夏朮，yun zhu 云朮，tai bai zhu 台白朮，wa zhu 蛙朮，ji yabn zhu 雞眼朮. It belong to the “” family.

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 has a aromatic, slightly acrid, non toxic and sweet and it is a little sticky when chewed. It is use for treating the spleen and stomach.

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 Chinese Herbal Articles was created to help cleanse and rejuvenate your body enable you to stay younger and healthier with chinese herbal recipes.

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 Medical Function:

1. Digestive System
• Protects Liver: Extraction of bai zhu (by boiling with water) was given to lab mice that had liver damage caused by carbon chloride. It lessened the necrosis and mutation of liver cells, and improved the new growth of the liver cells. It lowered the glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (GPT) that was increased.
• Improves gall secretion
• Prevents ulcer of stomach
• Improves movements of intestines and bowels
2. Diuretics
3. Improves immune system
4. Anti Cancer
Laboratory tests showed that neutral oil of the vaporizing oil bai zhu could inhibit esophagus cancer cells. 10mg/ml/hour could detach all the cancer cells. 5mg/ml/hour could detach most of the cancer cells and damaged the remaining cells. The nucleus became hazy and the cells became empty bubbles. 5. Affects heart and blood vessels
6. Lowers blood sugar
7. Anti coagulation of blood
8. Anti bacteria

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 Use Cautions:

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 should be use cautiously in cases of giddiness[ yinxu ] (yin deficient).

ACTIVE COMPONENTS

The investigation of the aromatic oils is a key to understanding the atractylodes herbal materials, particularly cangzhu. Atractylodes lancea is rich in a volatile oil, making up 3.5-7% of the dried rhizome, with atractylodin, β-eudesmol, hinesol, elemol, atractylone, and β-selinene; A. chinensis and other substitute species have less essential oil. The main constituents in the essential oils from the rhizome of A. chinensis are β-eudesmol and atractylone; A. lancea also has hinesol as a major constituent. β-eudesmol is a major component of the essential oil of magnolia bark, an herb in the same Materia Medica category as cangzhu. The fraction comprising the combination of hinesol and eudesmol in A. lancea is called atractylol, and this is the reddish substance appearing on the surface of the sliced rhizome, giving the name red atractylodes.

β-eudesmol

Atractylodin

Atractylodes macrocephala (baizhu) has less essential oil than the cangzhu varieties, with only 0.35-1.35% and with atractylone as the main component, along with smaller amounts of other lactones having similar structure. The differences in chemical composition help confirm that the two herbs (cangzhu and baizhu) may have differing properties, further justifying their separation in the Materia Medica.

Since white atractylodes has little essential oil, and even less of it after being fried (the heat drives off or destroys volatile components), other active ingredients may be present to explain its functions. A component called atractylenolide (a group of sesquiterpene lactones; three noted thus far) is found in baizhu; this component increases with frying of the herb (highest in lightly fried herb, which has turned yellowish, not brown). In terms of the atractylodes effects, it is thought that these components may serve as antispasmodic agents, thus reducing intestinal contractions associated with diarrhea. Diuretic action, measured in laboratory animal experiments, has been attributed to both volatile and non-volatile compounds of atractylodes, including ß-eudesmol, sesquiterpene lactones, and polyacetylenes

Atractylodes refers mainly to Atractylodes macrocephala (macro = big; cephala = head; so, big-headed atractylodes) known in Chinese as baizhu. Less frequently used is Atractylodes lancea (lancea = lance-like, so lance-leaved atractylodes) or its less-desirable (somewhat weaker) substitutes, such as A. chinensis, A. japonicum, and A. ovata, known in Chinese as cangzhu (see plant photos below). The basic term zhu was the only one used when atractylodes was first recorded in the ancient Shennong Bencao Jing (ca. 100 A.D.); the division between these two related herb materials first occurred in the Mingyi Bielu (ca. 500 A.D.). At that time, the tuber-like rhizomes of these plants were specified as either baizhu (bai = white) and chizhu (chi = red), referring to the color observed in the sliced rhizomes, the red being due to spots of accumulated oils. Later,chizhu was renamed cangzhu (cang = gray or black), which refers to the appearance of the outer skin of the rhizome, a dark gray-black color.

A. macrocephela

A. japonica

A. ovata

A. lancea

A. chinensis

Rhizomes with rootlets and stems, freshly pulled Atractylodes lancea.	Dried, whole rhizomes of Atractylodes macrocephala with rootlets and stems removed.

Related Chinese herbal formulas

This herb is widely used in TCM practice. Only in Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Febrile Diseases) and Jin Gui Yao Lue (Synopsis of Golden Chamber), it has been enlisted in 35 formulas. The list can be much longer if taking all later formulas into consideration. However, just a few of them are shared here just for your reference.

(1). Li Zhong Tang or Wan, from Shang Han Lun, has four ingredient herbs. The other three are Ren Shen (Ginseng), Gan Cao (Licorice), and Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger). It is mainly used for epigastric distention and pain and difficulty in urination.

(2). Si Jun Zi Tang, from Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Formulas of the Bureau of People’s Welfare Pharmacy), exchanges Fu Ling (Poria) for Gan Jiang on the basis of Li Zhong Tang or Wan. Its indications are pale complexion, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, fatigue, light-colored tongue with white coating, and weak pulse. This formula is derived from the famous Li Zhong Wan. It is well known that Gan Jiang rescues devastated yang for its warm nature while Fu Ling is much mild. Thus the whole formula has changed its nature and they turn into four gentleman.

(3). Shen Ling Bai Zhu San, from Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Formulas of the Bureau of People’s Welfare Pharmacy), is the formula that add Shan Yao (Chinese Yam), Lian Zi (Lotus Seed), Bai Bian Dou (Hyacinth Bean), Yi Yi Ren (Seeds of Job’s Tears), Sha Ren (Cardamon), and Jie Geng (Balloon Flower Rhizome) on the basis of Si Jun Zi Tang. It is typically used for excessive damp due to spleen deficiency. According to interpromotion of Five Elements, it is a typical application of reinforcing earth to generate metal. By the way, its other forms like Pian (tablet) and Wan (teapills) are popular over-the-counter drugs in China up to this day.

(4). Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, from Yi Xue Xin Wu (Medical Revelations), is mainly used for abnormal ascending of phlegm and retained fluid, palpitation caused by excessive phlegm, dizziness and headache. Besides the mentioned three herbs, others are Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel), Fu Ling (Poria), Gan Cao, Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger Rhizome), Da Zao (Chinese Date, Jujube), and Man Jing Zi (Vitex Fruit Seed).

REFERENCES

Yang Shouzhong (translator), The Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica, 1998 Blue Poppy Press, Boulder, CO.
Hsu HY and Peacher WG (editors), Shang Han Lun: The Great Classic of Chinese Medicine, 1981 Oriental Healing Arts Institute, Long Beach, CA.
Hsu HY and Wang SY (translators), Chin Kuei You Lueh, 1983 Oriental Healing Arts Institute, Long Beach, CA.
Mitchell C, et al. (translators), Ten Lectures on the Use of Medicinals from their Personal Experience of Jiao Shude, 2003 Paradigm Publications, Brookline, Mass.
State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Advanced Textbook on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology, (vol. 2) 1995-6 New World Press, Beijing.
Sionneau P, Pao Zhi: An Introduction to the Use of Processed Chinese Medicinals, 1995 Blue Poppy Press, Boulder, CO.
Yang Yifang, Chinese Herbal Medicines Comparisons and Characteristics, 2002 Churchill Livingstone, London.
Ding HY, Wu, YC, and Liu HC, Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Chinese cangzhu, Journal of the Chinese Chemical Society 2000; 47: 561-566.
Huang Bingshan and Wang Yuxia, Thousand Formulas and Thousand Herbs of Traditional Chinese Medicine, vol. 2, 1993 Heilongjiang Education Press, Harbin.
Sionneau P, Dui Yao: The Art of Combining Chinese Medicinals, 1997 Blue Poppy Press, Boulder, CO.
He Shanan and Sheng Ning, Utilization and conservation of medicinal plants in China with special reference to Atractylodes lancea, 1995 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

CHINESE HERBS…….ASTRAGALUS HUANG QI, an immune system booster, known to stimulate body´s natural production of interferon

March 26, 2014 7:22 am / Leave a comment

ASTRAGALUS HUANG QI

A Chinese herb; an immune system booster, known to stimulate body´s natural production of interferon. It also helps the immune system identify rogue cells. Work with the herb in both cancer and AIDS cases has been encouraging. The MD Anderson Cancer Centre in Texas conducted research showing that taking Astragalus when having Radiotherapy doubled survival times.

Astragalus is a large genus of about 3,000 species^[1] of herbs and small shrubs, belonging to the legume family Fabaceae and the subfamily Faboideae. The genus is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Common names include milkvetch (most species), locoweed (in North America, some species)^[2] and goat’s-thorn (A. gummifer, A. tragacanthus). Some pale-flowered vetches are similar in appearance, but vetches are more vine-like.

Astragalus species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including many case-bearing moths of the genus Coleophora: C. cartilaginella, C. colutella, C. euryaula, and C. onobrychiella feed exclusively on Astragalus, C. astragalella and C. gallipennella feed exclusively on the species Astragalus glycyphyllos, and C. hippodromica is limited to Astragalus gombo.

Traditional uses

The natural gum tragacanth is made from several species of Astragalus occurring in the Middle East, including A. adscendens, A. gummifer, A. brachycalyx,^[3]^[4] and A. tragacanthus. Also Astragalus propinquus (syn. A. membranaceus) has a history of use as a herbal medicine used in systems of traditional Chinese medicine.^[5] and Persian medicine ^[6]

popular qi tonic (especially the wei qi), these large roots of Astragalus are sweet and slightly warm in energy. Our roots are cut from long robust plants with a nice yellow colored pith, that possess a nice sweetness when chewed.

Research

Biotechnology firms are working on deriving a telomerase activator from Astragalus. The chemical constituent cycloastragenol (also called TAT2) is being studied to help combat HIV, as well as infections associated with chronic diseases or aging.^[7] However, the National Institutes of Health states: “The evidence for using astragalus for any health condition is limited. High-quality clinical trials (studies in people) are generally lacking. There is some preliminary evidence to suggest that astragalus, either alone or in combination with other herbs, may have potential benefits for the immune system, heart, and liver, and as an adjunctive therapy for cancer”.^[8]

Research at the UCLA AIDS Institute focused on the function of cycloastragenol in the aging process of immune cells, and its effects on the cells’ response to viral infections. It appears to increase the production of telomerase, an enzyme that mediates the replacement of short bits of DNA known as telomeres, which play a key role in cell replication, including in cancer processes.^[9]

Supplement use

Extracts of Astragalus propinquus ( syn. A. membranaceus) are marketed as life-prolonging extracts for human use. A proprietary extract of the dried root of A. membranaceus, called TA-65, “was associated with a significant age-reversal effect in the immune system, in that it led to declines in the percentage of senescent cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells after six to twelve months of use”.^[10] There are mixed data regarding Astragalus, its effects on telomerase, and cancer. For example while 80% of cancer cells utilize telomerase for their proliferation – a factor which might theoretically be exacerbated by Astragalus – the shortening of telomeres (resulting from such factors as stress and aging and possible contributors to malignancy), might also be mitigated by Astragalus. Thus, short telomeres result in chromosome instability, and the potential for telomere lengthening as a protection against cancer is possible.^[11] Additionally, scientists recently reported in Molecular and Cellular Biology that cancer cells may proliferate precisely because of the lack of differentiation occurring via damaged or shortened telomere length. They propose that “forced” elongation of telomeres promotes the differentiation of cancer cells, probably reducing malignancy, which is strongly associated with a loss of cell differentiation.

Side effects and toxicology

Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, such as cyclophosphamide.^[8] It may also affect blood sugar levels andblood pressure.^[8] Some Astragalus species can be toxic. For example, several species native to North America contain the neurotoxin swainsonine.^[8]The toxicity of Astragalus taxa varies.^[12]

Ornamental use

Several species, including A. alpinus (bluish-purple flowers), A. hypoglottis (purple flowers), and A. lotoides, are grown as ornamental plants in gardens.

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Chinese Herbs Articles

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Chinese Herbs Articles also written as 黃芪 also known as: Astragali, Beg Kei, Bei Qi, Buck Qi, Huang Qi, Hwanggi, Membranous Milk Vetch, Milk Vetch, Mongolian Milk, Ogi. Astragalus membranaceus; Astragalus mongholicus. It belong to the Leguminosae or Fabaceae family.

Astragalas ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 has a sweet taste and a warm properties and it is use for treating the spleen and lung.

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Chinese Herbal Articles was created to help cleanse and rejuvenate your body enable you to stay younger and healthier with chinese herbal recipes.

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Usage:

tonify spleen & lung Qi – raises Spleen & Stomach Qi (prolapse)
tonify Wei Qi – stabilize exterior
tonify Qi and blood due to loss of blood – postpartum fever
promotes urination – Edema – discharge of pus – generates flesh

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Other Use:

1. Orally, Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 is used for treating the common cold and upper respiratory infections; to strengthen and regulate the immune system; and to increase the production of blood cells particularly in individuals with chronic degenerative disease or in individuals with cancer undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It is also used orally for chronic nephritis and diabetes. Astragalus is also used orally as an antibacterial and antiviral; a tonic; liver protectant; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; and as a diuretic, vasodilator, or hypotensive agent.

2. Topically, Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 is used as a vasodilator and to speed healing.

3. In combination with Ligustrum lucidum (glossy privet), astragalus is used orally for treating breast, cervical, and lung cancers.

Astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆 Use Cautions:

There are many varieties of astragalus ( Huang Qi ) 黃耆. Some are toxic. The varieties used in Chinese herbal medicine is relatively safe but in rare cases it might cause rash.

Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus) Root

Astragalus membranaceus

Our freshly harvested root are completely chemical free and extremely high quality to preserve all of its benefits.

Traditional & Modern Use:
Huang Qi root is harvested white but becomes a pale yellow. The roots are a staple in Chinese medicine praised for its energizing effects. The root pieces can be simmered for long periods of time and served as a tea or soup but the root pieces are too tough to chew so they are not consumed unless powdered. The roots are a very powerful herb for aiding the kidneys as well as a preventative medicine for senility. Chinese holistic healers also believe strongly that the regular use of Astralagus rejuvinates debilitated patients and fights off serious disease. News studies in the West have now begun to show some amazing results in the treatment of cancer and that the root can restore normal immune function in cancer patients. Impressively, patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy recover much quicker and can live longer when using the root simultaneously to their treatments.

References

Frodin, D. G. (2004). “History and concepts of big plant genera”. Taxon 53 (3): 753–776. doi:10.2307/4135449.
“Astragalus (Locoweed) flowers”. Rootcellar.us. Retrieved 2013-07-05.
[1]
“Astragalus brachycalyx Fisch.”. Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN) online database. Retrieved 24 December 2010.
“Astragalus | University of Maryland Medical Center”. Umm.edu. 2013-05-07. Retrieved 2013-07-05.
Zargary, A. Medicinal plants. 5th Edition.Tehran: Tehran University Publications 1990; pp. 312-314
“Herbal chemical helps combat HIV”. United Press International. January 1, 2009. Retrieved January 28, 2011.
Astragalus, NCCAM
Fauce, S. R., et al. (2008). “Telomerase-Based Pharmacologic Enhancement of Antiviral Function of Human CD8+ T Lymphocytes”. Journal of Immunology 181 (10): 7400–7406. PMC 2682219. PMID 18981163. Retrieved 2012-08-18.
Harley, C. B., et al. (2011). “A natural product telomerase activator as part of a health maintenance program”.Rejuvenation Research 14 (1): 45–56.doi:10.1089/rej.2010.1085. PMC 3045570.PMID 20822369.
Hiyama, K., et al. (2009). “Role of telomeres and telomerase in cancer”. In K. Hiyama. Telomeres and Telomerase in Cancer. Cancer Drug Discovery and Development II. Humana Press. pp. 171–180.doi:10.1007/978-1-60327-879-9_7. ISBN 978-1-60327-879-9.
Rios, J. L.; P. G. Waterman (1998). “A review of the pharmacology and toxicology of Astragalus“. Phytotherapy Research 11 (6): 411–418. doi:10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(199709)11:6<411::AID-PTR132>3.0.CO;2-6.

Astragalus
Large list of species
Very large list of species (with synonyms).
Astragalus at a Glance This fact sheet from the U.S. National Institutes of Health provides basic information about Astragalus – common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.
Astragalus alpinus This Rare Species Guide profile from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources provides information about the basis for the species’ listing, habitat, biology and life history, conservation and management, and conservation efforts.
Chinese Milkvetch, Astragalus membranaceus, Kansas State University
Astragalus Root

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Reduction of male fertility

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Ophiocordyceps sinensis (left) growing out of the head of a dead caterpillar

According to the classics Medical Material, “Ben Cao Bei Yao” 本草備要, the best dong chong xia cao 冬蟲夏草, are produced in Sichuan. Today, most of them are produced in Xizang (Tibet) and Qinghai. Because the sizes the larvae are larger, they fetch higher prices.

Taxonomic History/ Systematics

Morphological Features

Important developments in Classification

Common Names[edit]

Nomenclature of the anamorph

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Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

Pharmaceutical Name: Semen Armeniacae.Botanical Name: 1. Prunus armeniaca L. var. ansu maxim.; 2. Prunus mandshurica(Maxim.) Koehne; 3. Prunus sibirica L.

Common Name: Apricot seed, Bitter apricot seed or kernel.Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing.Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical

Preparations: The seeds are collected after the apricot ripens in summer. They are then dried in the sun and pounded into pieces.Properties & Taste: Bitter, slightly warm and slightly toxic.Meridians: Lung and large intestine.

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁

Bitter Apricot Seed ( Xingren ) 杏仁 Toxicity & Cautions:

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Wormwood

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What is the evidence?

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Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala)

What is Bai Zhu?

What is it used for?

Property and indications

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu )

Atractylodes ( Bai Zhu ) 白朮 Medical Function: