Single Herb Glossary
Kǔ Liàn Pí 苦楝皮
| Pharmaceutical name | Meliae Cortex chinaberry (root) bark, melia (root) bark “bitter Chinaberry tree bark” |
| Category | Parasites |
| Key Properties | Toxic Kills parasites Clears damp-heat |
| Properties | Bitter Cold Toxic |
| Tropism | LV, SP, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Kills Parasites 2) Also used Topically for tinea infections |
| Dosages | 4.5-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Toxic, should not be taken long term or in large doses. Caution with Def or Cold of Sp/St; CI: LV or HT disease, peptic ulcers, and during pregnancy. |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Toosendanin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antiparasitic: toosendanin has marked antiparasitic effect; at high concentrations, effectively paralyzes muscles of intestinal parasites, leading to their expulsion • Respiratory: toosendanin has inhibiting influence on respiratory system in animal studies; following intramuscular injection, respiration slowed down in 60 minutes and stopped in 120 minutes; following intravenous injection, respiration slowed down in 10 minutes and stopped in 30 minutes; respiratory depression attributed to action of toosendanin on the CNS in the brain • Gastrointestinal: administration of toosendanin associated with increase in intestinal peristalsis and contraction; in large doses, may lead to spasms and cramps |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.