Chinese Thoroughwax
Other names for Chinese Thoroughwax
bupleurem
bupleurem (bupleurum chinense) water-extracted root
bupleurum
bupleurum (bupleurum chinense) powder
bupleurum (bupleurum chinense) root
bupleurum (bupleurum chinense) root extract
bupleurum chinense
bupleurum chinense extract
bupleurum chinense root
bupleurum chinense root extract, dry
bupleurum chinensis
bupleurum chinensis 5:1 root extract
bupleurum chinensis root extract
bupleurum chinese
bupleurum chinese extract
bupleurum (chinese thoroughwax) fruit
bupleurum extract
bupleurum liquid extract
bupleurum root
bupleurum root concentrate
bupleurum root extract
certified organic bupleurum dried root liquid extract
certified organic bupleurum extract
chinese thoroughwax
radix bupleuri chinensis
thorowax
thorowax root extract
Synopsis of Chinese Thoroughwax
History
Chinese Thoroughwax (Bupleurum chinense), known as "Chai Hu" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), boasts a rich history of medicinal use spanning over two millennia. Revered as a harmonizing herb, it features prominently in classic Chinese medical texts, where it was believed to balance the flow of "qi" (vital energy) and promote the smooth functioning of the liver. Ancient practitioners commonly relied on Chinese Thoroughwax for its remarkable ability to reduce fever, alleviate stress, and support the body's natural resilience against various ailments.
Historically, Chinese Thoroughwax was widely used to address conditions such as colds, influenza, and digestive disturbances. It was often prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with emotional stress, including irritability and mood swings, reflecting its role in harmonizing the mind and body. In addition to its individual use, this versatile herb frequently appeared in intricate herbal formulas. Most notably, it is a principal ingredient in the renowned "Xiao Yao San" (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder), a celebrated herbal blend used to support liver health, digestive wellness, and emotional balance.
Modern research continues to highlight the herb's potential, attributing its positive effects to active compounds with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Its adaptability in herbal combinations enables practitioners to tailor remedies for a wide range of health concerns, enhancing the efficacy of traditional and contemporary health products. With its longstanding reputation for safety and effectiveness, Chinese Thoroughwax remains a valued contributor to holistic wellness, bridging ancient wisdom and modern nutritional science.
Traditional and scientific validation
Chinese Thoroughwax, known botanically as Bupleurum chinense, has been a cornerstone in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. It is commonly used in herbal formulations, such as the well-known "Xiao Chai Hu Tang," to support liver health, manage inflammation, and promote overall vitality. Traditional uses include harmonizing the body's energy, relieving fever, and aiding in the treatment of respiratory and digestive disorders.
Modern scientific interest in Chinese Thoroughwax has led to a growing body of research on its active compounds, particularly saikosaponins. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that extracts from Bupleurum chinense possess anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective (liver-protecting), and immunomodulatory properties. For example, certain saikosaponins have demonstrated protective effects against liver damage in animal models, supporting their traditional use in liver health.
Human clinical studies, however, remain limited. Some small-scale trials suggest potential benefits in supporting liver function and reducing symptoms in hepatitis patients, but results are preliminary and not yet conclusive. The safety profile appears favorable in traditional doses, though high doses or prolonged use may pose risks.
Overall, while historical use and early scientific findings highlight the promise of Chinese Thoroughwax as a nutritional and therapeutic ingredient, rigorous clinical validation in larger, well-controlled human studies is still needed. Nonetheless, its longstanding role in traditional medicine and emerging scientific support underscore its potential contributions to wellness, particularly in formulations aimed at liver health and immune support.
Chinese Thoroughwax is used for these health conditions
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Injuries (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Chinese Thoroughwax is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Hepatic System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)