CHINA ROOT TINCTURE
Family: Smilacaceae
Genus: Smilax
Species: Smilax china
Synonyms: Smilax pseudochina, Smilax ornata
Common Names: China root, Chinese sarsaparilla, rough bindweed
Parts Used: Rhizome
Main Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective
Other Actions: Immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, alterative, anti-scrophulatic, carminative, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic and tonic
Description: Smilax china is a perennial climbing vine with prickly stems and heart-shaped leaves. It produces small greenish flowers and red berries.
Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses: Used traditionally in Chinese medicine for treating skin conditions, joint pain, and promoting detoxification.
Plant Chemicals: Saponins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds
Biological Activities and Clinical Research: Studies suggest anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects, with potential for use in liver diseases and arthritis.
Current Practical Uses: Utilized in herbal supplements for joint health and liver support.
Main Preparation Method: Decoction or tincture
Main Uses: Joint pain relief, skin health, liver support
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: Anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: Detoxification, immune support. Antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating cramps and muscular pain, as well as the symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis. Diuretic effects helpful for urinary tract conditions, digestive disorders including gallbladder inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),and diverticulitis. Ailments related to the lungs, kidneys, spleen and stomach and as a treatment to temporarily lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Traditional use by women to support the health of their reproductive systems; often prescribed to relieve menstrual cramps, as well as chronic pelvic pain.
Cautions: May interact with certain medications, potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Traditional Preparation: Decoction of dried rhizome
Contraindications: Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions: May interact with anticoagulant medications.
Recommended dosage: 2.5ml taken in a small glass of water or juice 2 x daily on an empty stomach for better absorption.