corydalis yanhusuo

Corydalis yanhusuo (Yan Hu Suo) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the tuber of the plant Corydalis yanhusuo. It has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) primarily for its analgesic and blood-invigorating properties. The main active compounds include alkaloids such as tetrahydropalmatine (THP), dehydrocorybulbine, leonticine, tetrahydroberberine, and corydalmine. These constituents are believed to exert their effects by modulating dopamine receptors and stimulating opiate receptors involved in pain management[5][6][7]. Yan Hu Suo is commonly prescribed for various types of pain including chest pain, abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), traumatic injuries, and chronic musculoskeletal discomfort[2][4][5]. Modern research suggests it may also have anti-inflammatory effects and could potentially reduce opioid tolerance or dependence by inhibiting dopamine receptor-mediated pathways[6][7]. In TCM practice it is categorized as an herb that invigorates blood flow and moves Qi to alleviate stagnation-related symptoms.

Other names

Yan Hu SuoCorydalis tuberCorydalis Rhizome延胡索