STUDENT RESEARCH
Sheng Jiang , Huang Lian and Dan Shen :
A Review
Anna Merenda | Student of Endeavour College of Natural Health
Introduction
This paper discusses the major clinical applications of Traditional Chinese Medicine ( TCM ) herbs Sheng Jiang , Huang Lian and Dan Shen . Sheng jiang , also known as ginger , has received enormous attention in Western Medicine ( WM ), resulting in many studies assessing its medicinal uses , not only for its traditional wellknown ability to alleviate nausea but also in speculation as to its ability to alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting , as well as an antiinflammatory . Huang Lian is frequently used in TCM due to its having various medicinal properties , mainly antitoxic . More recent studies have evaluated its actions for cardiovascular and anti-diabetic properties , despite its mechanism of action not being entirely understood . Dan Shen , used in TCM to invigorate , move and cool blood , has recently become an important herb in Chinese clinical practice , treating and preventing cardio-vascular disease ( CVD ) and hyperlipidaemia , despite controversy and known side effects . This paper highlights the wide spectrum of uses for TCM herbs , with a focus on more recent research into their medicinal uses . Next , the controversy and support of the herbs as a standalone therapy or complement to WM is discussed .
Identifications and review of herbs
Sheng Jiang Table 1 shows Sheng Jiang ' s reported important medicinal effects on vomiting , nausea , coughing and phlegm by dispersing cold , warming the middle Jiao , and supporting Qi . It shows toxicity at high doses , and is contraindicated in spontaneous sweating and heat conditions . It has been deemed safe and free from restrictions and warnings .( 1 )
Huang Lian Table 2 highlights that Huang Lia is considered a bitter and cold herb with multiple applications . It is useful against heat conditions such as fevers , inflammation such as sore throat , GIT conditions such as diarrhoea , mental conditions such as delirium and insomnia , and bleeding . It is considered safe , with no restrictions or warnings . Berberine is the only identified toxin of note .( 1 )
Dan Shen As Table 3 shows , Dan Shen is considered bitter and cold , with applications for the circulatory system and for relieving inflammation , and is calming . It is contraindicated in both pregnancy and warfarin use . It contains numerous biochemicals of significance , especially alkaloids , that require further analysis .
90 | vol28 | no2 | JATMS