Respiratory: Common cold, flu, and other upper respiratory infections; allergies/hay fever; asthma

Cardiovascular: May help regulate blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: May decrease the hepatitis B virus

Genitourinary: Kidney disease

Musculoskeletal: Fibromyalgia. Antiinflammatory properties - by decreasing some cytokines,

Neurological: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Skin: May decrease herpes simplex I (oral herpes); allergic dermatitis

Glucose: Helps regulate blood sugar (type II)

Cholesterol: Helps to lower cholesterol, especially triglycerides

Immunity: Promotes immunity and may decrease cytokines in autoimmune disease

Cancer: As an adjunct in treating breast, cervical, and lung cancer, chemo side effects (like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, bone marrow suppression)

Infectious Disease: Possibly helps decrease HIV replication

Other: Anemia, anti-aging: Decreases collagen degradation, mild diuretic, possibly helps with kidney disease.

                                                          *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Rash, stomach problems

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Autoimmune disease, certain medications (lithium, immunosuppressants, diabetic medications (may cause hypoglycemia if taken with these)

FORMS: Tincture, Capsules, tablets, Injectible (for use in hospital or clinical settings in Asian countries), topically for the skin, tea

Recommended Brands

No recommended brands currently available.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

According to NIH publications, amounts used in studies have ranged from 9–30 mg daily. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to Epocrates.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

This herb has been used traditionally in various forms, including capsules, powders, and extracts. Traditional uses vary widely and are based on historical practices rather than modern clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.