Health Guide

Dichroa

Dichroa (often referring to Dichroa febrifuga) is a flowering plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine. While often confused with the mineral 'Dichroite' (a synonym for Cordierite), in the context of dietary supplements, it refers to the plant root. Rich in febrifugine and isofebrifugine alkaloids, it is famous for its potent antipyretic (fever-reducing) and antimalarial properties. It acts as a natural cooling agent for the body, helping to clear 'heat' and toxins, making it a powerful, traditional remedy for fevers and inflammation.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Dichroa
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Potency vs. Safety Threshold (Alkaloid Concentration)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Therapeutic Effectiveness
Dosage Level

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Fever & Malaria Support: Historically known as 'Chang Shan,' it is highly effective at reducing high fevers associated with malaria and other infections.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce systemic inflammation and swelling.
  • Immune Defense: Contains compounds that inhibit the growth of certain pathogens.

Deep Dive

Dichroa works primarily through its active alkaloids, febrifugine and isofebrifugine. These compounds intervene in the lifecycle of parasites and modulate the body's temperature regulation centers. For the everyday person, it serves as a potent herbal extract used to combat stubborn fevers and support the immune system during acute infection. However, it is a strong botanical and should be respected for its potency.

Natural Food Sources

Important Note: Dichroa is not a nutrient found in common fruits or vegetables (like Vitamin C). It is a specific herbal botanical extract derived from the Dichroa febrifuga shrub. You cannot eat it in a salad; it is processed into supplements or teas.

Supplementation

  • Form: Usually found as a liquid extract, powder, or in herbal tea blends.
  • Dosage: There is no standard RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance). Standard traditional doses range from 3-5g of dried root, but this varies wildly based on the concentration of alkaloids.
  • Usage: Strictly for short-term use during illness (fever/infection).

Who Should Take It? Only under the guidance of a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or a doctor for specific parasitic infections.

Top Food Sources

Dichroa Febrifuga Root
The only natural source; not edible raw.
Mugwort
Sometimes used in herbal blends with Dichroa for synergy.
Ginger
Commonly paired to reduce nausea side effects.
Green Tea
Used as a carrier liquid for the extract.
Licorice Root
Often added to TCM formulas to harmonize ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Cordierite is a mineral also called 'Dichroite' due to its color-changing properties. In dietary supplements, 'Dichroa' refers to the herb Dichroa febrifuga.
It is generally too potent for a standard cold. It is reserved for high fevers and specific parasitic infections. Try Elderberry or Zinc first.
Because it was used historically in China to treat fevers and malaria, similar to how Quinine (from Cinchona bark) was used in the West.
No. Due to the risk of toxicity and the lack of standardized dosing, it should not be given to children.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Side Effects

WARNING: Dichroa is toxic if used incorrectly.

  • Toxicity: The alkaloids are toxic to the liver and stomach in high doses. Overdose can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage.
  • Pregnancy: STRICTLY AVOID. It is a known abortifacient (can induce miscarriage).
  • Interactions: May interact with antimalarial drugs and liver-metabolized medications.
  • Expert Advice: Do not self-prescribe Dichroa. It is a potent medicinal herb, not a daily wellness vitamin.

Scientific References

  • [1]Zhang, J. et al. (2019). 'Antimalarial activity of febrifugine derivatives.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
  • [2]Jiang, S. et al. (2018). 'Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of Dichroa febrifuga.' *Chinese Medicine*.
  • [3]Li, Y. et al. (2020). 'Febrifugine: A potent alkaloid for malaria treatment.' *Phytomedicine*.