Health Guide
Scrophularia ningpoensis
Meet Scrophularia ningpoensis, a powerhouse root vegetable known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Xuánshēn. Often called the Ningpo Figwort, this herb is not your average salad topping, but a staple in herbal wellness for over 2,000 years. While it has a bitter taste that limits its use in daily cooking, its dried root is packed with powerful compounds like iridoid glycosides and saponins. Think of it as nature's 'cooling' agent—traditionally used to clear internal 'heat,' nourish fluids, and soothe inflammation. Whether you are exploring herbal remedies for skin health or immune support, this ancient root offers a science-backed bridge between food and medicine.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
VERIFIED SOURCE
Bio-Activity Analysis
Traditional Uses of Scrophularia (TCM Indications)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Y-Axis
Frequency of Use (Scale)
Health Area →
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Skin Health & Relief: Traditionally used to treat red, itchy skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce swelling and heat in the body.
- Immune Support: Contains compounds that may modulate immune responses.
- Throat & Lung Support: Used to moisten dryness and relieve coughs.
Deep Dive
Scrophularia ningpoensis works by targeting the 'Yin' (fluids) of the body. In modern science, we see that its active constituents, particularly harpagoside and aucubin, exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Unlike harsh pharmaceuticals, it works to restore balance. It is particularly famous for its ability to help the body manage 'Tox-Heat'—manifesting as boils, sore throats, or red rashes. Recent studies suggest it may also support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, but its primary fame remains in dermatology and immune defense.
Natural Food Sources
Unlike Vitamin C found in oranges, Scrophularia ningpoensis is a specific medicinal herb. It is not found in standard fruits or vegetables in the Western diet. It is the dried root of the plant.
| Food Source | Part Used | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ningpo Figwort | Dried Root | Decoction (Tea) or Tincture |
| Scrophularia | Fresh Root | Rarely used fresh due to toxicity risks |
Supplementation
- Who should take it? Individuals dealing with chronic skin inflammation, dry throat, or post-viral fatigue (under guidance).
- Dosage: In TCM, the standard dried root dosage is typically 9g to 15g per day when boiled in water.
- Usage: It is almost always used in a formula with other herbs (like Radix Rehmanniae) rather than alone.
Top Food Sources
Ningpo Figwort (Dried Root)
The primary medicinal source.
Rehmannia Root
Often paired with Scrophularia for cooling effects.
Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
European variety, used similarly but Ningpo is preferred.
Lophatherum Gracile
Used with Scrophularia to clear heat.
Ophiopogon Tuber
Used to nourish fluids alongside Scrophularia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not really. While the root is technically edible, it is extremely bitter and potentially toxic if not processed correctly. It is strictly used as a medicinal herb, usually dried and boiled into a tea (decoction).
Yes, it grows well in temperate climates. However, harvesting and processing the root for medicinal use requires expert knowledge to ensure safety and potency.
Generally, it is used for acute issues (like a breakout or sore throat) or short cycles. Long-term use should be monitored by a TCM practitioner due to its potency.
Xuánshēn is the Pinyin name. 'Xuán' implies the root is dark/blackish, and 'Shēn' means ginseng/human root, referring to its shape and high value in the herbal materia medica.
Safety & Side Effects
Safety Profile & Interactions
WARNING: This herb is classified as a 'Herb with Toxicity' in some traditional texts. It must be handled with care.
- Contraindications: Do NOT use if you have loose stools, diarrhea, or a weak spleen/stomach (脾胃虚寒). It has a 'cold' nature which can worsen these conditions.
- Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Plantaginaceae family may react.
- Drug Interactions: It may interact with immunosuppressants or blood thinners.
- Preparation: Never eat the raw root. It must be processed (often steamed with soybean juice to reduce toxicity) and boiled.
Scientific References
- [1]Wang, C. et al. (2019). 'Anti-inflammatory effects of Scrophularia ningpoensis.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
- [2]Liu, Y. et al. (2020). 'Iridoid glycosides from Scrophularia ningpoensis and their immunomodulatory activity.' *Phytochemistry Letters*.
- [3]Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (2020). Official Monograph for Radix Scrophulariae.