Paris Root (Zao Xiu)

Chinese: 蚤休
Pinyin: Zao Xiu
Latin: Rhizoma Paridis

Botanical plate by Kodi .

Known in TCM as Zao Xiu (蚤休), this bitter, slightly cold herb enters the Liver. Traditionally, it clears Heat and resolves toxicity; disperses swelling and relieves pain for sores, abscesses, carbuncles, and snakebite, most often applied for carbuncle, snakebite, and epilepsy. Modern research has identified Steroidal among its active constituents.

Part used: Rhizome

Also Known As

Paris polyphylla Chong Lou (synonym) Qi Ye Yi Zhi Hua

Latin: Rhizoma Paridis | Pinyin: Zao Xiu | Chinese: 蚤休

TCM Properties

Taste: bitter
Temperature: slightly cold
Channels: Liver

Traditional Use

Primary Actions

Clears Heat and resolves toxicity; disperses swelling and relieves pain for sores, abscesses, carbuncles, and snakebite
Cools the Liver and settles fright for convulsions and seizure from Liver Wind

Secondary Actions

Trade name variant of Chong Lou; Zao Xiu and Chong Lou refer to the same Rhizoma Paridis and share identical properties and actions

Classical References

Documented across regional Chinese materia medica for centuries as a potent Heat-toxin resolving rhizome

Modern Research

Active Compounds

Steroidal saponins (polyphyllin family)

Studied Effects

Cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects demonstrated in cancer cell lines for botanical drug preparations derived from this species
Clinically combined with other agents in Chinese oncology practice for various cancers

PubMed References

Cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects of botanical drugs derived from the indigenous cultivated medicinal plant Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis

Safety & Interactions

Contraindications

Pregnancy
Absence of true Heat-toxin pattern
Weak or Deficient constitution

Cautions

Slightly toxic; excessive use may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and in severe cases pallor, cramps, or difficulty breathing
Use only under professional guidance with precise dosing

Conditions

Carbuncle Traditional ★★★☆☆ JSON
Snakebite Traditional ★★☆☆☆ JSON
Epilepsy Traditional ★☆☆☆☆ JSON

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paris Root (Zao Xiu) used for?

Paris Root (Zao Xiu) is traditionally used to Clears Heat and resolves toxicity; disperses swelling and relieves pain for sores, abscesses, carbuncles, and snakebite, Cools the Liver and settles fright for convulsions and seizure from Liver Wind. Research has investigated its effects on: Cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects demonstrated in cancer cell lines for botanical drug preparations derived from this species; Clinically combined with other agents in Chinese oncology practice for various cancers.

What are other names for Paris Root (Zao Xiu)?

Paris Root (Zao Xiu) is also known as Paris polyphylla, Chong Lou (synonym), Qi Ye Yi Zhi Hua. In TCM: 蚤休 (Zao Xiu); Rhizoma Paridis.

Is Paris Root (Zao Xiu) safe during pregnancy?

Paris Root (Zao Xiu) is not recommended during pregnancy.

What are the contraindications for Paris Root (Zao Xiu)?

Paris Root (Zao Xiu) should not be used in: Pregnancy; Absence of true Heat-toxin pattern; Weak or Deficient constitution. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.