baizhi

Baizhi is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine derived from the root of *Angelica dahurica*. It is characterized by its high content of furanocoumarins, which are bioactive compounds known to interact with human metabolic pathways. Specifically, baizhi acts as a potent inhibitor of the Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme. Clinical research, including pharmacokinetic studies at Simon Fraser University, has demonstrated that co-administration of baizhi with CYP1A2 substrates, such as caffeine, results in significantly reduced clearance and increased systemic exposure of the substrate. While used traditionally for treating headaches, rhinitis, and toothaches, its primary significance in modern clinical pharmacology lies in its potential for significant herb-drug interactions.

Other names

Angelica dahuricaAngelica dahurica (Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook.f. ex Franch. & SavDahurian Angelica Root