Botanical Overview
Aralia elata (family Araliaceae), commonly known as Japanese Angelica Tree or Korean Angelica Tree, is a deciduous tree native to East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of Russia and Manchuria. The parts mainly used medicinally are the root bark, stem bark, young shoots, and leaves. It has traditional uses primarily in East Asian herbal medicine systems.
Energetics
The herb is considered warming and neutral in moisture with bitter and pungent tastes. Its energetic actions are ascending and outward, reflecting its tonifying effect on Qi energy.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Immunomodulatory
- Digestive tonic
Indications
Western
- Digestive discomfort
- Inflammation
- Fatigue
- Immune deficiency
- Cough
Syndromes
- Chronic inflammation
- Immune deficiency
- Digestive weakness
TCM
- Wind-cold invasion
- Joint pain
- Cough
- Poor appetite
Syndromes
- Wind-damp obstruction syndrome
- Qi deficiency
Ayurveda
Not well documented.
Unani
Not well documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Primary phytochemicals include saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of root bark: 3-6 g once daily
- Tincture standardized to saponins: 1-3 mL, 2-3 times daily
- Young shoots: cooked as food or consumed as infusion
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe when used appropriately. Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals are reported. Caution is advised with immunosuppressive therapies due to immunomodulatory effects.
Astrological Correspondences
No credible sources identified for planetary or elemental rulership; this information is currently unavailable.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies on Aralia elata: A Review
- Aralia elata – PFAF Plant Database
- Pharmacognosy of Aralia elata
- Immunomodulatory Effects of Aralia elata