Use with caution. Review interactions and contraindications below.
TCM Properties
- Taste
- bitter, sour
- Temperature
- neutral
- Channels
- Liver, Kidney
Traditional Use
Primary Actions
- Invigorates Blood and dispels stasis
- Guides herbs and Blood downward
- Supplements the Liver and Kidneys
- Strengthens sinews and bones
- Promotes urination and relieves stranguria
Secondary Actions
- Leads Blood downward to treat Liver Yang rising with headache and hypertension
- Addresses Bi syndrome pain in knees and lower back
Classic Formulas
- Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang — descends Liver Yang and clears Wind for headache and hypertension
- Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan — addresses Bi syndrome and joint pain with underlying Kidney deficiency
Classical References
- Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing: 'Treats cold-damp atrophy and painful obstruction, expels stagnant Blood' — historically classified as top-grade medicine
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Achyranthes saponins A, B, C
- Beta-ecdysone (ecdysterone)
- Betaine
- Achyranthes polysaccharides
- Ferulic acid
Studied Effects
- Three novel compounds (achyranbidens A-C) isolated, two showing significant anti-alpha-glucosidase activity (PMID 36722288)
- Comprehensive review of phytochemistry and pharmacology confirms traditional uses; further clinical studies warranted (PMID 38600792)
- Systematic pharmacology identified key active compounds and multi-target mechanisms relevant to osteoarthritis (PMID 32925869)
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Pregnancy — explicitly contraindicated; saponins stimulate uterine contractions with abortifacient effect
- Excessive menstrual bleeding — blood-invigorating properties worsen hemorrhage
- Spermatorrhea or premature ejaculation — downward-guiding nature worsens leakage
- Middle Qi deficiency with sinking
Cautions
- Use cautiously in Spleen deficiency with loose stools
- Downward-guiding action contraindicated in conditions requiring upward movement of Qi