AKA Chinese goldthread or golden thread, is commonly used to treat digestive issues, diabetes, Lyme disease, insomnia, acne, psoriasis and respiratory issues

Also used to prevent parasitic infections and establish a healthy gut microbiome

Contains berberine, which is antimicrobial and helps boost immunity

In TCM, the root’s bright yellow color shows its affinity for the spleen and stomach

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic (pain-relieving), and fever-reducing properties

TCM applications

• Targets spleen, stomach, heart, liver and large intestine meridians

• Clears heat and toxins

• Dries dampness 

• Harmonizes the stomach and drains liver heat

Often used in formulas to boost the medicinal effects of other herbs 

Contains powerful antimicrobial properties that help the body fight colds, allergies and lung congestion

Antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, anticancer, expectorant, emmanogogue (stimulate blood flow to the pelvis and uterus), hepatic (liver-supporting) and laxative properties 

TCM applications

• Targets lung, spleen and liver meridians

• Moves blood

• Dries dampness

• Clears heat

• Reduces inflammation

• Stimulates the uterus 

Most commonly used and known for treating infections and supporting the liver

Able to treat infections that become resistant to antibiotics

Antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antipyretic (fever-reducing), anticancer, cholagogue (promotes the flow of bile from the gallbladder), hepatic (liver-supporting), detoxing and laxative properties

TCM applications

• Targets liver, lung, stomach, small and large intestine meridians

• Clears heat and dampness

• Calms heart fire

• Tonifies yin

Considered one of the top 50 healing herbs in TCM

Has been used for centuries to repair tissues and bones and as a natural painkiller

Athletes and bodybuilders have used phellodendron to help improve sleep and recovery between workouts 

Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties

TCM applications

• Targets liver, kidney and bladder meridians

• Clears heat and toxicity 

• Eliminates damp-heat from the kidneys and bladder

Skullcap is widely used for its mood-boosting and anxiety-reducing benefits, which also makes it a wonderful sleep aid 

Anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune building properties

In TCM, herbs that are used to clear heat also help calm the spirit

TCM applications

• Targets liver, lung, large intestine and stomach meridians

• Used to clear the “superficial evils”: cold, heat, wind, damp and damp Heat

• Clear heat and toxins

• Promote blood circulation

• Reduce blood stasis and swelling (ie. edema)

Most commonly used to support liver detoxification and gallbladder health

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it helpful for cancer support, lowering high cholesterol, diabetes prevention and treatment

Also supports digestive health and bile production, reduces inflammation and soothes mucous membranes in the body

Known for boosting liver and adrenal function, but also helps with improving focus, concentration, memory and overall brain function and health; improves digestion, supports hormonal balance and healthy skin

Has been used alongside other ancient herbs, such as ginseng, goji berries and reishi mushrooms for thousands of years

In TCM, Shisandra’s properties include all five elements, meaning this fruit works on multiple meridians within the body to restore balance and health; it also impacts almost every organ system in the human body