Bupleurum

Botanical Name :   Bupleurum falcatum

Plant Family :  Apiaceae 

Common name :  Chai Hu, Hare's Ear Root

Origin : 

History :  It is used in Chinese Medicine

Tradition :

Medicinal Parts Used :  Root

Contains :

Tripenoid Saponins

• saikosaponin a
• saikosaponin b 1
• saikosaponin b 2
• saikosaponin b 3
• saikosaponin b 4
• saikosaponin c
• saikosaponin d
• saikosaponin e
• saikosaponin f

and

Polysaccharides

• Bupleurans

Action :

• anti-inflammatory [an agent to ease inflammation]
• antitussive [an agent that relieves coughing]
• bitter  [applied to bitter tasting drugs which act on the mucous membranes of the mouth and stomach to increase appetite and promote digestion] and cool
• diaphoretic [an agent that promotes perspiration]
• hepatoprotecive [protects the liver]

Bupleurum falcatum is used for:

Female Conditions

• irregular menstruation
• prolapse of the uterus

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• prolapse of the rectum
• regulates gastrointestinal function

Immune System Conditions

• acute infections
• autoimmune diseases involving the liver or kidneys

Inflammatory Conditions

• chronic inflammatory disorders

Liver Conditions

• acute and chronic liver disease
• chemical liver damage
• enlarged liver
• poor liver function
• restores liver function

Respiratory Tract Conditions

• chronic cough
• common cold with chills and fever

Other

• debility

Often combined with Astragalus for debility and prolapse

Caution :

It some people it can cause:

• increase in bowel movement and flatulence
• slight sedative effect