Dichroa

Bio-Activity Analysis
Potency vs. Safety Threshold (Alkaloid Concentration)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
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
Frequently Asked Questions
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*.