Drynaria (Gu Sui Bu)
What is drynaria? What is it used for?
Drynaria is a hardy plant, which grows to a height of approximately four
feet. It consists of a thin wooden stem, with several branches containing
green fern-like leaves, or fronds. The rhizome, or root, is used in herbal
remedies.
In traditional Chinese medicine, drynaria is considered one of the most
important herbs that can be used to heal damaged bones and ligaments;
in fact, the literal name of drynaria in Chinese is "mender of shattered
bones." It has bitter and warm properties, and is associated with
the Kidney and Liver meridians. In addition to its use on ligaments and
bones, drynaria can treat toothaches, tinnitus and bleeding gums. It also
stimulates the growth of hair, and can be applied topically to treat conditions
like alopecia.
How much drynaria should I take?
The typical dosage of drynaria is between 6-18 grams, taken up to three
times daily. Some health care providers may also recommend 10-20 grams
of drynaria rhizome taken with water as a decoction.
What forms of drynaria are available?
Drynaria rhizome is available whole and dried, or in pill, powder and
decoction forms. Drynaria can be found at most health food stores and
herbal shops.
What can happen if I take too much drynaria?
Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should
I take?
Drynaria should not be taken by patients with severe yin deficiency.
Large quantities or overdoses of drynaria can lead to upset stomach and
toxicity. As of this writing, there are no known drug interactions with
drynaria. As always, however, make sure to consult with a licensed health
care provider before taking drynaria or any other herbal remedy or dietary
supplement.
References
- Editorial Committee of Chinese Materia Medica. State
Drug Administration of China. Chinese Materia Medica. Shanghai:
Science and Technology Press, 1998.
- Li Liu Z, et al. Journal of Traditional Chinese
Medicine 1997;38(9):554-556.
- Shu Ma Z, et al. China Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 1999;34(2):82-85.
- Shui ZT, et al. Journal of Chinese Materia Medica
1994;25(4):175-178.
- Zhen Y, et al. China Journal of Sports Medicine
1998;17(1):34-37.
