Botanical Overview
Rehmannia glutinosa (prepared root), commonly known as Chinese foxglove or Shu Di Huang, belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. The part used medicinally is the prepared root, traditionally processed by steaming and drying. It is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and moistening in nature, with a sweet taste. Its directional qualities include descending and inward movement, and it is primarily tonifying in its effect. Energetically, it supports the blood, essence, and yin.
Primary Actions
- Blood tonic
- Kidney tonic
- Liver tonic
- Yin tonic
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Menstrual irregularities
- Night sweats
- Low back pain
- Dizziness
Syndromes
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Postmenopausal symptoms
- Diabetes-related nephropathy
TCM
- Dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Night sweats
- Dry mouth
- Lower back soreness
Syndromes
- Kidney Yin deficiency
- Blood deficiency
- Essence deficiency
Ayurveda
Not traditionally used.
Unani
No specific indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains iridoid glycosides such as catalpol, phenethyl alcohol glycosides, rehmanniosides, and cinnamic acid derivatives which contribute to its pharmacological activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of 9-15 g prepared root daily
- Powdered extract 3-6 g daily
- Traditional prepared slices (Shu Di Huang) used within formulae
Safety & Contraindications
The herb is generally safe within traditional dosing but caution is advised during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data and possible effects on blood sugar. Use cautiously in people with bleeding disorders and avoid or use under supervision if taking anticoagulants or antidiabetic medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Rehmannia glutinosa in Chinese Medicine – Dan Bensky, Andrew Gamble (1993)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Rehmannia glutinosa – Xu et al., 2006
- Rehmannia glutinosa (prepared root): Monograph – Australian Centre for Complementary Medicine, 2010
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 3, 2007