Pinyin: ku shen

ENGLISH NAME: Shrubby Sophora (Root)

LATIN NAME: Sophorae Flavescentis Radix

Properties: bitter, cold
Channels Entered: Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine, Urinary Bladder

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
1. Clears Heat and Dries Dampness

2. Dispels Wind, KiIIs Parasites, andRelieves Itching

3. Promotes Urination

DOSAGE
3 to 10 grams in decoction.

CAUTIONS I CONTRAINDICATIONS
• Ku Shen Gen is contraindicated in patients who have deficiency and cold of the Spleen and Stomach.
• Ku Shen Gen is incompatible with Li Lu (Radix et Rhizoma Veratri) and should not be used concurrently. • Ku Shen Gen antagonizes Tu SiZi (Semen Cuscutae),Lou Lu (Radix Rhapontici) and Bei Mu (Bulbus Fritillaria), according to some traditional texts. The validity of this antagonism, however, has since been challenged.