Bupleurum

Scientific Name(S): Bupleurum chinense DC., related species include B. falcatum L., B. scorzoneraefolium , B. fruticosum L., B. ginghausenii, B. rotundifolium L., B. stewartianum. Family: Umbelliferae

Common Name(S): Thoroughwax, hare's ear root, chai hu (Chinese)

Bupleurum is also known as Hare's Ear. Bupleurum Root is one of the most important herbs used in Chinese herbalism. The Chinese name for Bupleurum, chai hu , means "kindling of the barbarians". The part of this plant used medicinally is the root, which is dug up in Spring or Autumn, dried in the sun, and then cut into short pieces. Bupleurum is not a tonic herb, but it is useful in the tonic system because of its ability to relieve liver tension and digestive disturbances, and because its actions are detoxifying & anti-microbial.

Bupleurum is a key ingredient in the formula known as sho-saiko-to. This is a Japanese kampo or traditional herbal medicine formula based on the traditional Chinese formula xiao-chai-hu-tang. In English, it has been called minor bupleurum formula.

History: Bupleurum is a traditional Chinese herb dating back to the first century B.C. It is one of China's "harmony" herbs purported to organs and energy in the body. Bupleurum has been used as a liver tonic, with spleen and stomach toning properties as well. The plant has also been said to clear fevers and flu, promote perspiration, and alleviate female problems.

Property: Flavour and channel tropism: bitter and pungent in flavour, slightly cold in property, acting on the liver and gall bladder channels.

Uses of Bupleurum

Bupleurum has been found beneficial as a liver protectant and possesses positive effects on the immune system, including treatment for cold and flu, inflammatory disorders, and certain cancers. It is also useful in GI ailments, certain brain disorders, and for gynecological problems.

Side Effects of Bupleurum

Bupleurum has caused sedative effects in some patients, along with increased flatulence and bowel movements in large doses. Some combinations with bupleurum may have certain undesirable effects such as induction of pneumonitis, or nausea and reflux in sensitive patients.

Dosage

Generally 500-2,000 mg bupleurum dry root are taken three times daily in capsules. Traditionally, and in some clinical studies, bupleurum was prepared as a tea in which the root is decocted or cooked for hours before use. Some people take 1-4 grams per cup of water, three times daily. Sho-saiko-to formula is typically given in capsules (1.8-2.5 grams) three times per day. The amount given to children should be proportionally reduced based on individual weight and height as compared to adults.

Summary: Bupleurum has been used in China for over 2000 years as a liver tonic. Research finds bupleurum beneficial as a liver protectant. It also has positive effects on the immune system, including treatment for cold and flu, inflammatory disorders, and certain cancers. Bupleurum is also useful in GI ailments, certain brain disorders, and gynecological problems. The toxicity profile is low, with no important adverse effects being reported in animals.

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