Glehnia root (Glehnia littoralis)
Synopsis
Glehnia littoralis, commonly referred to as glehnia root or Bei Sha Shen in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a perennial herb native to coastal regions of China, Korea, and Japan. The dried root is the part used medicinally and is prized for its ability to nourish Yin, moisten dryness, and cool the lungs and stomach. Its main active constituents include polysaccharides, coumarins, flavonoids, and volatile oils, which contribute to its demulcent, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and antioxidant effects.
In modern herbal and integrative practices, glehnia root is used to treat conditions characterized by dryness, heat, or Yin deficiency, particularly in the lungs and stomach. It is often included in formulas for dry cough, sore throat, hoarseness, dry mouth, and stomach irritation. It helps to generate fluids, making it useful in cases of low-grade fever, thirst, and internal dryness, especially following illness, heat exposure, or chronic inflammation.
Unlike stimulating expectorants or astringents, glehnia is gentle and soothing, often combined with herbs like ophiopogon (Mai Men Dong), asparagus root (Tian Men Dong), or lily bulb (Bai He) in Yin-nourishing formulas. It is particularly suitable for weakened individuals, recovering patients, and chronic lung conditions.
Historical Use
Glehnia littoralis has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is categorized as a sweet, slightly bitter, and cool herb that enters the Lung and Stomach meridians. It is primarily used to nourish Lung Yin, which is essential in treating dry, non-productive coughs, hoarseness, and consumptive heat (a pattern linked to long-term illness or dehydration).
Classic TCM texts describe Bei Sha Shen as ideal for rebuilding fluids without being cloying, meaning it moisturizes and restores without overburdening the digestive system. It was often prescribed for post-fever recovery, chronic dry throat, and stomach Yin deficiency, especially when accompanied by burning sensations, dry stools, or mouth ulcers.
In Kampo (Japanese traditional medicine), glehnia root has similar applications and is used in formulas aimed at soothing the mucous membranes and replenishing fluids after extended illness, overexertion, or prolonged stress.
Today, glehnia root continues to be a valued herb in East Asian and integrative botanical medicine, particularly for its role in soothing inflammation, restoring fluids, and supporting respiratory and gastrointestinal mucosal health. Its gentle nature makes it a mainstay in formulas for chronic dryness, convalescence, and internal heat conditions, especially when the goal is to heal and moisten rather than purge or stimulate.
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Lungs (Science)
Mucus Membranes (Science)
Respiratory System (Science)