Ku Shen (Sophora Flavescens)

Chinese Herb: Ku Shen (Sophora Flavescens) Sophora flavescens Ait.; Radix Sophorae Flavescentis; 苦参 Properties Bitter, Cold Channels Entered Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine, Urinary Bladder Chinese Therapeutic Actions Clears Heat, dries Dampness, dispels Wind, kills parasites, relieves itching, promotes urination Cautions/Contraindications Contraindicated in those who have deficiency and cold of the Spleen and Stomach; Ku Shen Gen is incompatible with Li Lu adn should not be used concurrently; Ku Shen Gen antagonizes Tu Si Zi and Bei Mu according to some traditional texts. Overdosage Overdose is associated with adverse reactions such as irritability, muscle spasms and cramps, excitation, dyspnea, and in severe cases of gross overdose, respiratory failure. Pharmacological Effects Antiarrythmic, Cardiovascular, Immunostimulant, Respiratory, Antibiotic, Antiparasitic, Antineoplastic