geranium wilfordii

Geranium wilfordii is a perennial herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), known as Herba Geranii or lao-guan-cao. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and various infectious diseases. The plant exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties attributed to its inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and other inflammatory mediators. Extracts from Geranium wilfordii have demonstrated efficacy in reducing inflammation and joint pain in both preclinical models and clinical use. Additionally, polyphenolic compounds such as quercetin, corilagin, and geraniin isolated from the plant show antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) by inhibiting viral replication and blocking viral attachment[1][2][3][8]. The herb also possesses antibacterial effects and has been used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, enteritis[5][7], as well as for improving circulation and strengthening bones/tendons[5]. Its main modalities are herbal extract or decoction.

Other names

Geranium wilfordii maximHerba Geraniilao-guan-caoGWM