Peking Euphorbia Root
- Chinese
- 京大戟
- Pinyin
- Jing Da Ji
- Latin
- Radix Euphorbiae Pekinensis
Known in TCM as Jing Da Ji (京大戟), this bitter and acrid, cold herb enters the Spleen, Kidney, and Large Intestine. Traditionally, it drastically purges water and expels Phlegm-fluid retention; used for severe edema, ascites, and pleural effusion, most often applied for edema and carbuncle. Modern research has identified Casbane-type among its active constituents.
Part used: Root
Also Known As
Latin: Radix Euphorbiae Pekinensis | Pinyin: Jing Da Ji | Chinese: 京大戟
TCM Properties
- Taste
- bitter, acrid
- Temperature
- cold
- Channels
- Spleen, Kidney, Large Intestine
Traditional Use
Primary Actions
- Drastically purges water and expels Phlegm-fluid retention; used for severe edema, ascites, and pleural effusion
- Reduces swelling and disperses nodules for carbuncles and toxic swellings when applied topically
Secondary Actions
- Historically classified among the 50 fundamental herbs for its potent purgative action
Classic Formulas
- Shi Zao Tang (Ten Jujube Decoction)
Classical References
- Shang Han Lun and Jin Gui Yao Lue (Zhang Zhongjing, c. 200 CE) include Da Ji in Shi Zao Tang for severe fluid retention
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Casbane-type diterpenoids (pekinenal, pekinenin C)
- Ingenol-type diterpenoids
Studied Effects
- Diterpenoid compounds induce apoptosis via mitochondrial and death-receptor pathways in intestinal epithelial cells, explaining the herb's intestinal toxicity
- Casbane diterpenoids are identified as the main toxic compounds, causing colonic edema and diarrhea
- Laxative effects are attributable to diterpenoid-induced alterations of aquaporins in the colon
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (traditionally recognized as an abortifacient)
- Breastfeeding
- Weak or frail patients
Cautions
- Extremely toxic; irritates the gastrointestinal tract and skin
- Vinegar processing reduces toxicity and is standard before use
- Do not combine with Gan Cao (Licorice); animal studies show this combination increases Da Ji's toxicity
- Not for prolonged use
Drug Interactions
- Contraindicated in combination with Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis / Licorice), per the classical "eighteen incompatible medicaments" tradition, confirmed by modern toxicity studies
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peking Euphorbia Root used for?
Peking Euphorbia Root is traditionally used to Drastically purges water and expels Phlegm-fluid retention; used for severe edema, ascites, and pleural effusion, Reduces swelling and disperses nodules for carbuncles and toxic swellings when applied topically. Research has investigated its effects on: Diterpenoid compounds induce apoptosis via mitochondrial and death-receptor pathways in intestinal epithelial cells, explaining the herb's intestinal toxicity; Casbane diterpenoids are identified as the main toxic compounds, causing colonic edema and diarrhea.
What are other names for Peking Euphorbia Root?
Peking Euphorbia Root is also known as Euphorbia pekinensis, Da Ji (synonym). In TCM: 京大戟 (Jing Da Ji); Radix Euphorbiae Pekinensis.
Is Peking Euphorbia Root safe during pregnancy?
Peking Euphorbia Root is not recommended during pregnancy.
What are the contraindications for Peking Euphorbia Root?
Peking Euphorbia Root should not be used in: Pregnancy (traditionally recognized as an abortifacient); Breastfeeding; Weak or frail patients. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.
Does Peking Euphorbia Root interact with any medications?
Peking Euphorbia Root may interact with: Contraindicated in combination with Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis / Licorice), per the classical "eighteen incompatible medicaments" tradition, confirmed by modern toxicity studies. Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.