Synonyms: Chai Hu, Chinese Thoroughwax, Hare's Ear
Family: Umbelliferae
Genus species: Bupleurum chinense, Bupleurum falcatum, Bupleurum longiradiatum, Bupleurum scorzoneraefolium
Type: Perennial herb
Part Used: Root
Location: northern China, northern Europe
Actions: Analgesic, antibacterial, anticancer, antidepressant, antihepatotoxic, antihistaminic, antihypercholesterolemic, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antipyretic, antiseptic, antitumor, antitussive, antiulcer, antiviral (oil), cardiotonic, choleretic, decreases fat production, diaphoretic, hepatic, immunoenhancer, liver alterative, sedative, tranquilizer
Indications: Amenorrhea, angina, cirrhosis, common cold, convulsion, depression, dermatitis, dizziness, epilepsy, excessive thirst, fever, headache, hepatitis, influenza, irregular menstruation, jaundice, liver congestion, liver disorders, lumbago, lung congestion, malaria, menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, painful menstruation, PMS, prolapsed uterus, rectal prolapse, skin disorders, tumor, vomiting
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Sodium, Zinc
Preparation & Dosages:
Decoction: General: 6-18 g, in two doses, Fever: 15-18 g, in 2-3 doses, Liver Disorders: 6-9 g, in 2-3 doses
Drug Interactions: Due to the cardioactive chemicals in this herb the following drug interactions are possible: interference and/or antagonism with antiarrhythmics; antagonism of beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs; potentiation of cardiac glycosides and increased risk of hypokalemia; when combined with depolarizing muscle relaxants there is a risk of arrhythmia; interference with nitrates and calcium-channel blockers; may increase the potential terfenadine has to cause arrhythmias. Due to the antihypertensive (hypotensive) action of this herb the following interactions are possible: when taken with anesthetics an increased hypotensive effect; potentiation of antihypertensives; when taken with diuretics difficulty with diuresis and hypertension may result; antagonism of sympathomimetics.
Safety: Safe when used appropriately.