Botanical Overview
Latin Name: Sophora flavescens (Family: Fabaceae)
Common Names: Ku Shen, Shrubby Sophora Root, Lightyellow Sophora Root, Sophora root
Parts Used: Root
Energetics
It is traditionally regarded as cooling with drying moisture. Its taste profile includes bitter and pungent flavors, and it is considered to have a relaxing tonicity affecting primarily the qi.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antipruritic
- Antiviral
- Cholagogue
- Diuretic
Indications
Western
- Skin inflammation
- Eczema
- Pruritus
- Diarrhea
- Viral infections
- Bacterial infections
Syndromes
- Infectious diseases
- Skin disorders
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
TCM
- Itching
- Damp-heat
- Dysentery
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Damp sores
Syndromes
- Damp-heat in the lower burner
- Skin wind-heat
- Damp-toxin
Ayurveda
Not traditionally used or insufficient data.
Unani
Not traditionally used or insufficient data.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains alkaloids such as matrine and oxymatrine, flavonoids including chalcones and prenylated flavonoids, which contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 6-15 g of root daily
- Extracts standardized to matrine/oxymatrine alkaloids
- Topical preparations for skin conditions
Safety & Contraindications
Caution advised during pregnancy and lactation; contraindicated in pregnancy. Potential hepatotoxicity has been reported; avoid use in liver disease without medical supervision. May increase effects of central nervous system depressants; monitor for interactions.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers found for Sophora flavescens.
Selected References
- Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China, Vol. I
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Sophora flavescens, Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Wang Z, et al., 2013)
- Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals (Blumenthal, 2000)
- American Herbal Pharmacopoeia: Sophora flavescens Root (2010)