Apiaceae
Bupleurum
Bupleurum chinense
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: China, Japan, Korea
Also known as: Chai Hu, Chinese Thoroughwax, Hare Ear Root
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis — clinical trials in Asia), autoimmune conditions, depression, PMS with liver congestion, chronic inflammatory conditions, fever. Central herb in many classical Chinese medicine formulas (Xiao Chai Hu Tang).
Herbal Actions
Hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulator, adaptogen, antipyretic, antidepressant
Active Constituents
Saikosaponins (a, b, c, d — primary actives), phytosterols, fatty acids, flavonoids, polysaccharides
Preparation Methods
🍵 Decoction🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 6–12g dried root simmered 30 min in 500ml, 2x daily |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Central herb in Xiao Chai Hu Tang. Best in TCM formulas. Saikosaponins significant hepatoprotective effects. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. Caution with interferon. Avoid with immunosuppressants.
Side Effects: Rare nausea, sedation, hypersensitivity. Pneumonitis reported in Japan with long-term combination use.