Scrophularia root

Ingredient Profile

Chinese Name玄参
PinyinXuan Shen
Latin NameScrophulariae Radix

Modern Research Perspective

Scrophularia Root contains iridoid glycosides, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, and other constituents. Cell and animal studies have explored anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune, cardiovascular, and tissue-related mechanisms. These findings are preliminary and sensitive to species and extraction differences.

High-quality human studies of the root as a standardized single material are scarce. Dose, interactions, reproductive safety, quality control, and long-term outcomes remain insufficiently defined, so clinical claims should remain cautious.

Traditional Function

In traditional Chinese medicine, Scrophularia Root is sweet, bitter, salty, and cold. It is used to cool the blood, nourish yin, detoxify, and soften hardness or disperse nodules. Its use is interpreted according to heat in the blood, yin deficiency, sore throat, or heat-related masses.