Sophora flavescens is an interesting substance, and is translated to mean bitter ginseng. It is quite a bit different in medicinal action though. It is helpful in clearing heat and dampness according to Chinese medicine, and is good at removing intestinal parasites, good for edema and eczema, constipation, and has some MAO-I effects as well. It's anti-swelling action is quite potent because of a compound called aloprene. Sophora is also well known for being a hair growth treatment, and has potent inhibitory effects on the type II 5alpha-reductase enzyme. (1,2) Oxymatrine appears to have good effects on hepatitis B and C, and has a very protective effect on the liver. Sophora also seems to exhibit some pain relieving effects, although that may vary based on the type of pain.
Sophora may also have a regulatory effect on the heartbeat, it may be helpful for asthma, and can improve the immune system while undergoing chemotherapy. Sophora is great for many female reproductive type issues such as including salpingitis, chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, chronic cervicitis, urinary tract infections, and vaginitis. Some of these studies were done using injections, but it can likely help improve these issues over time to at least some degree when taken internally. (3) Other research shows that sophora appears to help insomnia, diarrhea, fever, reduce inflammation, prevent allergies, relieve asthma, help heal sores and ulcers, eliminate phlegm, and may help to fight mycobacterium tuberculosis, shigella, staphylococcus aureus, and escherichia coli. (4) Sophora also has some research showing that it helps prevent or decrease LDL oxidation. (5)
Suggested use: 200mgs 2 times per day.
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