Botanical Overview
Scrophularia ningpoensis, commonly known as Ningpo figwort or Chinese figwort (Xuán Shēn), belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. Traditionally, the root is used medicinally, mainly harvested from plants native to East Asia, primarily China.
Energetics
The root is considered cooling and moistening in energetic quality, with a bitter and sweet taste. It has a descending directionality and tonifying properties, primarily influencing qi and blood.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Detoxifying
- Lymphatic tonic
- Clearing heat
Indications
Western
- Skin infections
- Swelling
- Sore throat
- Tonsillitis
- Lymphadenitis
- Fever
Syndromes
- Inflammatory conditions
- Lymphatic congestion
- Infectious diseases
TCM
- Sore throat
- Pharyngitis
- Tonsillitis
- Skin ulcers
- Toxic swellings
- Fever
Syndromes
- Heat toxicity
- Wind-heat affecting throat
- Fire toxin
- Toxic heat in blood
Ayurveda
Not traditionally used.
Unani
Not traditionally used.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains iridoids, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, organic acids, and saponins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 6-12 g daily as per traditional Chinese medicine usage
- Tincture: standardized tinctures not commonly available
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe within traditional dosage ranges. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. No major known drug interactions; however, consultation with healthcare providers is recommended when combined with pharmaceuticals.
Astrological Correspondences
No clear or authoritative sources found to assign planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica by Daniel Reid, 1996
- Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Scrophularia ningpoensis by Zhang et al., 2016
- Chinese Pharmacopoeia, 2020 Edition