Botanical Overview
Codonopsis pilosula belongs to the family Campanulaceae and is native to China and East Asia. Commonly known as Dang Shen or Poor Man’s Ginseng, this plant’s root is primarily used medicinally. It is widely valued in traditional Chinese medicine for its tonic properties.
Energetics
The root is considered neutral in temperature and moistening in character, with sweet and bitter tastes. Its action is both ascending and descending. It is classified as tonifying with a primary influence on Qi.
Primary Actions
- Adaptogen
- Immunostimulant
- Tonic
- Expectorant
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Weak immune system
- Poor appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough
Syndromes
- Immunodeficiency
- Chronic fatigue
- Anorexia
- Chronic bronchitis
TCM
- Weak pulse
- Pale tongue
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Spontaneous sweating
Syndromes
- Qi deficiency syndrome
- Spleen and Lung Qi deficiency
Ayurveda
Syndromes
Unani
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Codonopsis pilosula contains polysaccharides, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, and phenanthrene derivatives. These contribute to its immunomodulating, adaptogenic, and tonic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 6-12 g daily of dried root
- Powder: 3-9 g daily
- Tincture: standardized extract dosages vary
Safety & Contraindications
Generally regarded as safe with appropriate use. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Use should be avoided in excess heat syndromes according to traditional Chinese medicinal principles. Potential interaction with immunosuppressant drugs should be considered.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers documented for Codonopsis pilosula.
Selected References
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica (3rd Edition) by Dan Bensky et al.
- PFAF Database entry for Codonopsis pilosula
- NCCIH Herbs at a glance: Codonopsis
- Phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Codonopsis pilosula (Zhu X et al., 2019)