Chinese Herb: Ku Shen (Sophora Flavescens)
Sophora flavescens Ait.; Radix Sophorae Flavescentis; 苦参
Properties
Bitter, Cold
Channels Entered
Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine, Urinary Bladder
Chinese Therapeutic Actions
Clears Heat, dries Dampness, dispels Wind, kills parasites, relieves itching, promotes urination
Cautions/Contraindications
Contraindicated in those who have deficiency and cold of the Spleen and Stomach; Ku Shen Gen is incompatible with Li Lu adn should not be used concurrently; Ku Shen Gen antagonizes Tu Si Zi and Bei Mu according to some traditional texts.
Overdosage
Overdose is associated with adverse reactions such as irritability, muscle spasms and cramps, excitation, dyspnea, and in severe cases of gross overdose, respiratory failure.
Pharmacological Effects
Antiarrythmic, Cardiovascular, Immunostimulant, Respiratory, Antibiotic, Antiparasitic, Antineoplastic
