bupleurum

Bupleurum is a genus of perennial herbs in the Apiaceae family whose roots are widely used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. The most commonly used species for medicinal purposes are *Bupleurum falcatum* and *Bupleurum chinense*. The dried root is the primary part utilized. Traditionally known as "chai hu" in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), bupleurum has been employed for over 2,000 years to treat a variety of conditions including fevers (antipyretic), colds and respiratory infections (such as influenza and bronchitis), digestive disorders (indigestion and constipation), liver diseases (hepatitis and cirrhosis), depression symptoms related to PMS or menopause, inflammation-related conditions such as rheumatism or asthma. Modern research attributes its main pharmacological activities to saikosaponins—triterpene saponins found in the root—which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting arachidonic acid metabolism; immunomodulatory effects via modulation of T-lymphocyte function; hepatoprotective actions through regulation of cellular calcium levels; antiviral activity against certain enveloped viruses; antiproliferative/chemopreventive properties against tumor cells. Most clinical evidence comes from studies on multi-herb formulas containing bupleurum rather than isolated extracts. Excessive intake may cause adverse hepatic effects[1][3][4][5][6].

Other names

Bupleurum falcatumBupleurum chinenseBupleuri RadixBupleurum rootChai-huChaihuBei Chai HuBeichaihuHare's ear rootRadix BupleuriSaiko (Japanese)Thorow waxThorowaxChinese ThoroughwaxShrubby Hare's EarSickleleaf Hare's Ear