Glabrous greenbrier (tu fu ling)

Smilax glabra

Traditionally attributed effects: drains damp heat, especially via the skin and in joint complaints.

Safety notes

Not with yin deficiency of liver and kidney. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Chinese materia medica: Sexually transmitted infections and Lyme disease must be treated with antibiotics.

Preparation

Rhizome. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that cool heat and detoxify'. In the Ming period tu fu ling was widely used against syphilis and against mercury poisoning caused by its treatment. It is still used for skin conditions and joint pain with damp and heat. In southern China it is part of the turtle jelly guilinggao.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Chinese materia medica

Nature and taste: sweet, bland, neutral
Meridians: liver, stomach, kidney

Attributed effects

For damp heat with cystitis, boils and jaundice, and damp heat blocking the joints. Traditionally used for syphilis.

Preparation and amount

Traditional dosage: 15–60 g a day, usually in a decoction. Related to sarsaparilla. The book claims this herb crosses the blood-brain barrier and is usable in Lyme disease; there is no evidence for this.

Combinations

With honeysuckle flower, licorice and bai xian pi for stubborn skin conditions

Caution: Sexually transmitted infections and Lyme disease must be treated with antibiotics.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →