Synonyms: Box Thorn, Chinese Matrimony Vine, Chinese Wolfberry, Di Gu Pi, Lycium Radicis Cortex, Matrimony Vine, Ti Ku Pi, Wolfberry Bark
Family: Solanaceae
Genus species: Lycium chinense (Chinese Wolfberry, Chinese Matrimony Vine), Lycium barbarum (Box Thorn, Matrimony Vine)
Type: Deciduous shrub
Part Used: Root bark
Location: Chinese Wolfberry: China, Europe, Japan, U.S., Box Thorn: Iraq, North Africa
Actions: Antibacterial, antihypercholesterolemic, antihyperglycemic, antihypertensive, antipyretic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antitussive, astringent, bitter, peripheral vasodilator, refrigerant
Indications: Asthma, cough, debility, diabetes mellitus, dizziness, excessive thirst, fever, hematemesis, hematuria, hemoptysis, hepatitis, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, hyperhidrosis, hypertension, impotence, indigestion, lumbago, nephritis, night sweats, pneumonia, respiratory allergies, rheumatism, sore throat
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium
Preparation & Dosages:
Decoction: 10-15 g, in 2-3 doses
Contraindications: Pregnancy.
Drug Interactions: May potentiate antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs. 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.