Xuan Shen (Scrophularia Root) – Scrophularia ningpoensis
Xuan Shen (Scrophularia ningpoensis), also known as Scrophularia Root, Ningpo Figwort Root, or Chinese Figwort, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been valued for its ability to nourish yin, clear heat, cool the blood, and moisten dryness, helping restore balance when patterns of deficiency heat and dryness arise in the body.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Xuan Shen is commonly included in formulas designed to nourish fluids, support the throat in traditional contexts, cool heat, and soften hardness.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Xuan Shen bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Learn More About This Herb
Want to explore the traditional classification, channels, and historical use of this herb in greater depth?
Traditional Uses of Xuan Shen in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xuan Shen is classified as a Heat-Clearing and Yin-Nourishing Herb. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Nourish yin
• Clear heat
• Cool the blood
• Moisten dryness
• Support the throat and soften hardness in traditional contexts
In classical herbal theory, Xuan Shen enters the Lung, Stomach, Kidney, and Liver channels, where it helps restore balance when heat, dryness, and yin deficiency disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Xuan Shen is widely used in traditional formulas focused on cooling and nourishing.
Herbs Often Used With Xuan Shen
Xuan Shen is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Sheng Di Huang – nourishes yin and cools heat
• Mai Men Dong – moistens the Lung and nourishes fluids
• Jie Geng – supports the throat and guides formulas upward
• Jin Yin Hua – clears heat in traditional formulas
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced formulas supporting moisture, cooling, and internal harmony.
Modern Research on Scrophularia ningpoensis
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds in Scrophularia species, including iridoids and phenylpropanoids, which have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Scientific interest in this herb has explored potential roles in supporting:
• Healthy inflammatory response
• Throat and respiratory wellness
• Circulatory wellness
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Xuan Shen
High-quality Xuan Shen should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Dark brown to black root pieces
• Dense texture
• Slight natural sweetness with earthy aroma
• Clean appearance with minimal debris
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly dried to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Scrophularia ningpoensis is commonly cultivated in China, especially in Zhejiang and Sichuan provinces. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the root.
Traditionally:
• Roots are harvested after the aerial plant dies back
• Cleaned thoroughly
• Dried or further processed
• Prepared for herbal use
How Xuan Shen is Traditionally Used
Xuan Shen may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Decoction
Simmer 6–15 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Xuan Shen is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas.
Herbal Tea
Steep smaller amounts in hot water for a lighter preparation.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking prescription medications
• Experiencing loose stools or digestive weakness
• Taking blood sugar medications
• Using without professional guidance
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Scrophularia ningpoensis
Common Names: Xuan Shen, Scrophularia Root, Ningpo Figwort Root, Chinese Figwort, Radix Scrophulariae
Flavor: Bitter, sweet, salty
Temperature: Cold
Channels Entered:
• Lung
• Stomach
• Kidney
• Liver
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of weak digestion, loose stools, or deficiency cold. Traditional use should be guided by constitution and formula context.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, herbalists, martial artists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
