Sparganium
Other names for Sparganium
burr reed extract
burr reed rhizome extract, dry
burr reed (sparganium emersum) dried rhizome liquid extract
rhizoma sparganii stoloniferi
san leng
san leng rhizome extract, dry
sparganii stoloniferi
sparganium
sparganium rhizome extract
sparganium stoloniferum
sparganium stoloniferum extract
wildcrafted san leng extract
wildcrafted san leng (scirpus fluviatilis) dried root liquid extract
wild harvested san leng extract
Synopsis of Sparganium
History
Sparganium, commonly known as bur-reed, is a perennial aquatic plant with a long history of medicinal use, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The rhizomes of Sparganium, often referred to as "San Leng" in Chinese, have been valued for centuries for their potent therapeutic properties. Traditionally, Sparganium has been employed to invigorate blood circulation, dissolve blood stasis, and alleviate pain. Ancient remedies often prescribed Sparganium for conditions such as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, abdominal masses, and trauma-related swelling or pain, recognizing its ability to mobilize stagnant blood and reduce inflammation.
In historical herbal texts, Sparganium is frequently mentioned as a remedy for gynecological disorders, particularly those involving menstrual irregularities and abdominal discomfort. Its use was also extended to treat masses or lumps, believed to be due to its dispersing and softening actions. The root was typically decocted or ground into a powder, sometimes combined with vinegar to enhance its effect in breaking down hard masses.
Sparganium is rarely used alone; it is most effective as part of synergistic herbal combinations. A classic pairing is with Curcuma zedoaria (E Zhu), forming a duo known for their powerful blood-invigorating and mass-resolving properties. This combination is widely included in traditional formulas addressing stagnation, pain, and reproductive health. Additionally, Sparganium may be blended with peony root, licorice, or angelica to create balanced formulas that address both stagnation and deficiency.
Overall, Sparganium's rich tradition in herbal medicine highlights its significant contributions to promoting circulatory health, resolving stagnation, and supporting women's wellness. Its enduring use in both historical and modern herbal combinations is a testament to its valued medicinal qualities.
Traditional and scientific validation
Sparganium, commonly known as bur-reed, is a genus of aquatic plants traditionally used in East Asian herbal medicine. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Sparganium rhizomes—often referred to as "San Leng"—have been valued for their purported abilities to promote blood circulation and alleviate menstrual disorders. Historical texts document its use alongside other botanicals to address conditions such as abdominal masses and dysmenorrhea.
Modern scientific research into Sparganium is still emerging, but initial studies have identified several bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides. Laboratory experiments have suggested that extracts from Sparganium may exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even antiproliferative properties. For example, some in vitro studies have demonstrated that Sparganium extracts can inhibit the growth of certain cancer cell lines and modulate inflammatory pathways.
Despite these promising findings, robust clinical trials in humans remain limited. Most current evidence is derived from animal models or cell-based assays, and there is a lack of standardized, large-scale human studies validating its efficacy and safety for specific health outcomes. Nevertheless, Sparganium continues to be included in nutritional supplements and herbal formulations, reflecting both its longstanding traditional use and its potential as a source of health-promoting phytochemicals.
In summary, while more research is necessary to conclusively determine the health benefits of Sparganium, its historical use in traditional medicine and preliminary scientific data underscore its promise as a valuable ingredient in nutritional products.
Sparganium is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)