Single Herb Glossary
Bàn Zhī Lián 半枝蓮
| Pharmaceutical name | Scutellariae barbatae Herba bearded scutellaria, barbat skullcap “half-branch lotus” |
| Category | Clear Heat, Resolve Toxicity |
| Key Properties | Clears heat toxin and dampness Relieves stasis Promotes urination |
| Properties | Acrid Slightly Bitter Cool |
| Tropism | LU, LV, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Clears heat, resolves toxicity, invigorates blood, and reduces swelling (Toxic sores, including snake bite) 2) Recently used in treating various types of cancer and chronic hepatitis 3) Promotes urination and reduces edema 4) Mildly dispels blood stasis and stops bleeding |
| Dosages | 9-30g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution during Pregnancy |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Carthamidin, isocarthamidin, scutellarein, apigenin, luteolin, β-sitosterol, organic alkaloids |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antibiotic: inhibitory action against S. aureus, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and E. coli; furthermore, apigenin and luteolin are selectively toxic to S. aureus, including the MRSA and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus strains • Antispasmodic: carthamidin inhibits contraction of smooth muscle • Antineoplastic: mild to moderate effectiveness in treatment of acute leukemia |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.