shancigu

Shancigu is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the pseudobulb of plants in the genus Cremastra (notably Cremastra appendiculata) and sometimes Pleione or Iphigenia species. It is classified as an herb that clears heat and resolves toxicity. Traditionally, it has been used to treat toxic lesions such as sores, abscesses, carbuncles, scrofula (lymph node tuberculosis), phlegm nodules, abdominal masses including tumors (especially adenocarcinoma), inflammation-related conditions like urticaria and malignant sores, as well as snake and dog bites. The main active chemical constituents include organic acids, glycosides, phenanthrenes (such as colchicine), and bibenzyl compounds[2][4]. Colchicine is known for its high toxicity; therefore shancigu should be used with caution due to potential adverse effects[4]. The herb can be administered internally or topically but should not be consumed in large doses or over long periods due to its toxicity[5]. There are two commercial specifications of shancigu—"Maocigu" and "Bingqiuzi"—which differ in appearance and chemical composition[6].

Other names

Shan Ci GuCremastra PseudobulbIphigenia Shansigu TuberCremastrae seu Pleiones PseudobulbusPseudobulbus Cremastrae/Pleiones Rhizoma Iphigeniae Indicae