Also known as the Chinese figwort, scrophularia grows in the Zhejiang and Sichuan provinces of China. (Other species of scrophularia grow in Europe and parts of North America.) The plant consists of one long branch, with large, tear-shaped leaves and flowers that range from reddish-brown to greenish-yellow.
The root is used medicinally, and is harvested in the winter, when the above-ground parts of the plant have withered. The roots are dried in sunlight until they turn black on the inside, then are sliced for use.Scrophularia has a bitter taste and cold properties, according to the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine. It works on the Lung, Stomach and Kidney meridians, and has three main functions:
Scrophularia root is used for various types of sore throats and swollen lymph glands. It is often used with other herbs as part of larger formulas.
The recommended dosage of scrophularia is 10-15 grams, decocted in water for an oral dose.
Dried scrophularia root is available at most Chinese markets. Scrophularia extracts and powders are also available.
Scrophularia should not be used in cases with weakness of the spleen and stomach, especially when the patient has a poor appetite or diarrhea is present. It also should not be combined with the herb black hellebore (li lu). As always, make sure to consult with a qualified health care provider before taking scrophularia or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
References
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