Bupleurum
Other names for Bupleurum
bupleurum
bupleurum chinense root extract
bupleurum chinense root extract concentrate
bupleurum chinense root extract, dry
bupleurum extract
bupleurum, fermented
bupleurum marginatum
bupleurum marginatum root extract
bupleurum powder
bupleurum, powder
bupleurum root extract
bupleurum root extract concentrate
bupleurum root extract, dry
bupleurum root glycerite liquid extract
organic bupleurum
Bupleurum (unspecified)
bupleurum falcatum
Synopsis of Bupleurum
History
Bupleurum, a traditional herb native to East Asia, has played a significant role in herbal medicine for over two millennia. Known as Chai Hu in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bupleurum root is revered for its remarkable ability to harmonize and regulate the body’s internal balance. Historically, Bupleurum has been used to address a wide range of ailments, most notably liver-related disorders, fever, and respiratory conditions. Ancient texts document its use in remedies to alleviate symptoms of the common cold, flu, and stress-induced imbalances, thanks to its purported anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.
Bupleurum is rarely used alone; instead, it is celebrated for its effectiveness as part of herbal combinations. One of the most renowned formulas is Xiao Yao San ("Free and Easy Wanderer Powder"), where Bupleurum is combined with other botanicals such as peony root, licorice, and angelica to support liver health, emotional well-being, and digestive harmony. Such synergistic blends amplify Bupleurum’s benefits, making it a cornerstone for formulations aimed at managing emotional stress, PMS, and fatigue. In Japanese Kampo medicine, Bupleurum-based formulas like Saiko-keishi-to are also highly valued for similar indications.
Modern herbalists continue to appreciate Bupleurum for its gentle yet effective support of the liver and its adaptogenic qualities, which help the body cope with physical and emotional stress. Its long-standing use in traditional remedies and its key role in multi-herb formulas underscore Bupleurum’s invaluable contributions to holistic health and wellness traditions worldwide.
Traditional and scientific validation
Bupleurum, a traditional herb prominent in Chinese medicine, has a long history of use for supporting liver health, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall vitality. Its roots, primarily from the species Bupleurum chinense and Bupleurum falcatum, are key ingredients in classic formulations such as Xiao Chai Hu Tang, which has been used for centuries to support immune function and address symptoms of fever, digestive disturbances, and liver imbalances.
Modern scientific research has begun to explore the pharmacological properties of Bupleurum. Studies have identified saikosaponins, the herb's principal biologically active compounds, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory effects in animal and cell models. Some clinical trials suggest that Bupleurum-containing formulas may help in the management of chronic hepatitis and certain inflammatory conditions, though these studies often involve combinations with other herbs, making it challenging to attribute effects solely to Bupleurum.
A review published in the journal Phytotherapy Research highlights Bupleurum's potential liver-protective and anti-inflammatory actions, supporting its traditional uses. However, while preclinical evidence is promising, large-scale, well-controlled human clinical trials are limited. As such, definitive conclusions about its efficacy and safety for specific health conditions await further research.
Despite these limitations, Bupleurum remains a valued component in nutritional and herbal products, celebrated for its historical significance and emerging scientific interest. Continued investigation is likely to clarify and expand upon its beneficial contributions to human health.
Bupleurum is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Convalescence (Traditional)
Dizziness (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed) (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Influenza (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Bupleurum is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Hepatic System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Parotids (Salivary Glands) (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)