July 10, 2002

BUPLEURUM

Latin Name: Bupleurum falcatum

Alternate Names: Chinese Thoroughwax, Chai Hu, Chai Hu (Chinese), Hare's Ear Root

Family: APIACEAE

Parts Used: Root.

Properties: Alterative, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antiviral, Carminative, Chi Tonic, Choleretic, Diaphoretic, Febrifuge, Hepatoprotective, Muscle Relaxant, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Anger, Asthma, Bloating, Cancer, Capillary Weakness, Fatigue, Fever, Flatulence, Grief, Hemorrhoids, Hepatitis, Liver Stagnation, Malaria, Moodiness, Pain, Premenstrual Syndrome, Prolapse

Internal Applications: Tincture, Capsules (not very soluble in water).

Bupleurum strengthens the stomach and intestines and promotes blood circulation to the liver. It helps to clear emotions of anger and grief from the body and can improve moodiness. As it warms the torso, it draws fresh chi into the upper body parts and tonifies the leg muscles. Bupleurum improves adrenal function and benefits respiratory congestion and coughs. It stimulates the natural production of corticosteroids, thus relieving inflammation. It has long been used in Oriental Medicine to improve conditions that begin on the surface, yet linger for a long time.

Energetics: Pungent, Bitter, Cool.

Chemical Constituents: Furfurol, bupleurumol, triterpene glycosides (saikosides), saponins, flavonoids (rutin).

Contraindications: Avoid in cases of heat such as fever and headache, red irritated eyes, high blood pressure. Long term use may cause dizziness.

Comments: The common name Bupleurum includes the species Bupleurum longiradiatum, which is used interchangeably with Bupleurum falcatum. Bupleurum falcatum was previously called Bupleurum scoroneraefolium.

-- Phil in KS (cshomestead@planetkc.com), July 10, 2002

Answers

Here's a pic for ya:

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), July 10, 2002.