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The Health Benefits of
Traditional Chinese
Plant Medicines:
Weighing the scientific
evidence
A report for the Rural Industries Research and
Development Corporation
by Graeme E. Thomson
February 2007
RIRDC Publication No 06/128
RIRDC Project No DAV-227A
© 2007 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.
All rights reserved.
ISBN 1 74151 391 X
ISSN 1440-6845
The Health Benefits of Traditional Chinese Plant Medicines: Weighing the scienfitic evidence
Publication No. 06/128
Project No.DAV-227A
The information contained in this publication is intended for general use to assist public knowledge and discussion
and to help improve the development of sustainable industries. The information should not be relied upon for the
purpose of a particular matter. Specialist and/or appropriate legal advice should be obtained before any action or
decision is taken on the basis of any material in this document. The Commonwealth of Australia, Rural Industries
Research and Development Corporation, the authors or contributors do not assume liability of any kind whatsoever
resulting from any person's use or reliance upon the content of this document.
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Researcher Contact Details
Graeme Thomson
Department of Primary Industries, Victoria
621 Burwood Highway, Knoxfield
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
03 9210 9222
03 9800 3521
[email protected]
In submitting this report, the researcher has agreed to RIRDC publishing this material in its edited form.
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Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
Level 2, 15 National Circuit
BARTON ACT 2600
PO Box 4776
KINGSTON ACT 2604
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Published in February 2007
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ii
Foreword
Over the past decade, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation has strongly
supported research focussed on ‘Asian foods’ and ‘new plant products’. Within these programs, Asian
vegetables and to a lesser extent, medicinal herbs, have been of major interest. It seems logical then that
this new report should amalgamate some of this existing knowledge and explore new opportunities in
Chinese medicinal plants.
Plants were originally the basis of all human health care and Chinese traditional medicine has used
hundreds of species for over 2,000 years. In addition to their potential to alleviate chronic disease in
Australia, medicinal herbs offer us more opportunities than most horticultural crops in their potential for
development as value-added products. This report explores options for new medicinal plants through an
examination of evidence-based medical efficacy.
RIRDC invests in new and emerging industries on behalf of government and industry stakeholders.
New industries provide opportunities to be captured by investors and rural producers, and provide
avenues for farmers to manage change and diversify. The establishment of new industries contributes to
regional development and community resilience.
This project was funded from RIRDC Core Funds (which are provided by the Australian Government)
and by the Department of Primary Industries, Victoria.
This report, an addition to RIRDC’s diverse range of over 1600 research publications, forms part of our
Asian Foods R&D program, which aims to foster new Australian industries producing innovative, high
quality foods and consumable products with Asian origins.
Most of our publications are available for viewing, downloading or purchasing online through our
website:
•
•
downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/fullreports/index.html
purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop
Peter O’Brien
Managing Director
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
iii
Acknowledgments
Jingye Zhang, Slobodan Vujovic, Murat Top, Jane Parker
iv
Contents
Foreword ............................................................................................................................................... iii
Acknowledgments................................................................................................................................. iv
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................. vi
1. Introduction & Objectives ................................................................................................................ 1
2. Methodology ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Species review - boundaries of the investigation .................................................................................4
The search ............................................................................................................................................4
What constitutes good evidence ? ........................................................................................................5
3. Results ................................................................................................................................................ 8
General observations ............................................................................................................................8
4. Species review .................................................................................................................................. 10
5. Discussion....................................................................................................................................... 134
v
Executive Summary
What the report is about
There is growing public utilisation of complementary medicines in Australia, of which herbal medicines
are a major component. The projected value of the global herbal medicine industry is expected to reach
$USD 5 trillion annually by the year 2050. As part of the process for Australian producers to benefit
from this developing industry, a clear picture of the current Australian industry is required so that a
strategic approach can be developed. This project provides an important source of information for
current and future industry investors and is designed to fill a knowledge gap on the current status of
research and make recommendations for future research. The aim has been to critically examine the all
the current science-based medical evidence supporting the use of Chinese medicinal plants. It has been
designed to present results from a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review. This review targeted
those Chinese medicinal plant species that have been documented to possess curative, preventive or
palliative functions relevant to important chronic ailments in Australia. The study predominantly
focussed on plants used in Chinese medicine and on plants with their genetic origins in Asia. Asian
plants used in non-Chinese folk medicine were sometimes included when relevant.
Who is the report targeted at?
This report is aimed at growers, researchers and investors as a reference of supporting science-based
medical evidence on a range of medicinal plants.
Background
Plants have always been a source of medicine and a major resource for human health care. Chinese
traditional medicine has documented the use of botanicals for over 2,000 years. Natural products and
mainly plants (greater than 80%) are the basis of traditional Chinese medicine. About 500 species are
commonly prescribed by Chinese medical practitioners but up to 2,000 plants have a history of recorded
use. The scientific study of substances used medicinally by different ethnic or cultural groups is viewed
by researchers as an increasingly relevant and important source of new medicinal products. Chinese
medicinal herbals make up a large proportion of the over US$15 billion annual worldwide sales of
natural medicines.
Chinese medicines have been developed to treat all important diseases including chronic ailments. In
Australia the most important of these include coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, arthritis,
dementia and respiratory disease (including asthma). Total health expenditure (around 10% of gross
domestic product) is an increasing burden on the Australian economy and one that continues to increase
with pressure from an ageing population.
Studies show that 60% of Australian consumers have spent some of their health dollars on supplements
and natural remedies. In 2004, Australians spent AU$1.8 billion on complementary medicines and
therapies. There is a willingness to believe that some of these ‘alternative remedies’ may be effective
options to mainstream Western treatments.
Methods used
All the screened literature pertaining to human health effects was science-based and published either in
recognised science and medical journals, or review text books. Scientific and medical data were
primarily sourced from the PubMed electronic database which also covers relevant Chinese journals.
Results from human trials were given most weight in evaluation.
The study considered around 500 Asian medicinal plant species and directly reviewed and documented
information on over 400 with links to some of Australia’s chronic diseases. Ninety-eight percent of
these were higher plants (ie. angiosperms and gymnosperms). Over 3,500 scientific reference items
were reviewed and over 1,000 of these were directly referenced in species summaries. There were more
species (around 165) associated with anticancer effects than any other chronic disease, suggesting that if
Asian and in particular Chinese medicinal species are to make new impacts on human health in
Australia, there is a strong chance that this will be as anticancer agents.
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Results
There is a general lack of human efficacy testing associated with the use of most Asian medicinal
plants. Conclusive positive human results from randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled
experiments were only available for a limited number of crops. Table 1. below lists existing Australian
commercial crops that are important Chinese medicinal plants with strong support from medical
efficacy trials. Many are relatively small, new crops in Australia. However, given the strength of their
efficacy data and the considerable recent Australian investment (research and economic) that most of
these plants have attracted, there are good opportunities to develop these into much more important
commercial crops.
Table 1: Existing Australian commercial crops with supporting medical efficacy trial data
Common name
Garlic
Scientific name
Allium sativum
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Tumeric
Curcuma longa
Green tea
Ginseng
Camellia sinensis
Panax ginseng
Flat stem milk vetch
Ginkgo
Astragalus membranaceus
Ginkgo biloba
Used for….
Cholesterol control, anti-cancer
properties
Pain & inflammation control,
nausea prevention
Anti-inflammatory & rheumatoid
arthritis control
Anti-cancer properties, antioxidant
Anti-fatigue properties, improve
mental reactions, anti-cancer, antihypertension
Reducing blood pressure
Disease prevention – Alzheimer’s,
hearing loss and strokes
Recommendations
1) There is a need to keep surveying the medical literature with the view of capturing the latest
research into a single easily accessible source for the benefit of the developing Australian
industry. The beneficiaries of this would be producers, researchers, and investors looking to
capture a sector of the growing herbal market that is expected to reach $USD 5 trillion in 2050.
2) One of the outputs of this project is a database, and it is recommended that this should be
maintained for public access. Beneficiaries of this information should be encouraged to
contribute financially towards the updating and maintenance of this database.
3) During the compilation of the database, a number of crops were identified that are
recommended for further research. These crops were considered to be close to commercial
exploitation in Australia but in need of some further research into health related data or
economic production systems. In the following tables (2,3,4,5), these crops are collated under
headings that indicate the level of available efficacy data and production taking place in
Australia.
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Table 2: Existing crops that require human trial testing
Common name
Fenugreek
Shiitake mushroom
Lotus
Scientific name
Trigonella foenumgraecum
Lentinus edodes
Nelumbo nucifera
Used for…..
Glucose tolerance properties
Peach
Litchi
Pointed pepper
Prunus persica
Litchi chinensis
Piper sarmentosum
Mangosteen
Indian pennywort
Houttuynia
Holy basil
Longan
Perilla
Garcinia mangostana
Centella asiatica
Houttuynia cordata
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Dimocarpus longan
Perilla frutescens
Anti-cancer properties
Antihypertensive with potential antiobesity
properties
Cough and asthma treatment
Anti-cancer and antioxidant properties
Anti malaria, hypoglycaemic effect, antioxidant
activity
Bactericide, anti-cancer properties
Wound healing properties
Anti viral, antiinflammatory properties
Antiinflammatory, bactericide, diabetes treatment
Antimutagens
Anti-cancer
Table 3. Current ornamentals grown in Australia that could be developed for medicinal properties
Common name
Madagascar
periwinkle
Gardenia
Scientific name
Catharanthus roseus
Used for…..
Antidiabetic, anti-cancer, anti-malaria properties
Gardenia jasmoides
Mondograss
Common garden
peony
Mountain peony
Ophiopogon japonicus
Paeonia lactiflora
Chinese foxglove
Rehmannia glutinosa
Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic,
hypotensive, laxative, sedative properties
Cardioprotective properties
Antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antihepatic,
immunoregulatory properties
Antioxidant, antimutagenic, antiproliferative
properties
Hypoglaecimic properties, neuroprotective actions
Paeonia suffruticosa
Table 4: Potential ‘new’ commercial crops for Australian producers that are supported by good
efficacy data
Common name
Dogbane
Bellflower
Chinese knotweed
Toothed club moss
Wolfberries
Scientific name
Apocynum venetum
Codonopsis pilosula
Fallopia multiflora
Huerzia serrata
Lycium barbarum
Chinese boxthorn
Stephania
Chinese cucumber
Lycium chinense
Stephania tetrandra
Trichosnathes kirilowii
Korean mistletoe
Chinese dodder
Red yeast
Viscum coloratum
Cuscuta chinensis
Monascus purpureus
viii
Used for…….
Antioxidant, antihypertension, anticholerssterol
Dementia
Anticholesterol, antidementia
Antidementia
Anticholesterol, antidiabetic, anti-cancer,
cardiovascular properties
Liver function properties
Antiarthritic, cardiovascular properties
Anti-cancer, antiinflammatory, osteoarthritis,
cardiovascular, HIV effective properties
Antihypertensive, anti-cancer properties
Antitumour, immune enhancement properties
Anticholesterol properties
Table 5: Australian indigenous species with potential medicinal properties
Common name
Bacopa
Java brucea
Noni
Scientific name
Bacopa monnieri
Brucea javanica
Morinda citrifolia
Chinese celery
Oenanthe javanica
Java tea
Orthosiphon aristatus
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Used for…….
Nootropic action
Anti-cancer properties
Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antitumour,
antihelmin, analgesic, hypotensive,
antiinflammatory, immune enhancing properties
Hypoglycaemic, hypotriglyceride, heart health
properties
Antibacterial, antihypertensive properties
1. Introduction & Objectives
Plants have been a source of medicine and a major resource for health care since ancient times, with
some traditional herbal medicines having been in use for more than 2,000 years. Currently, the modern
pharmaceutical industry is paying more and more attention to plants as scientists re-discover that plant
life is an almost infinite resource for medicine development. One fourth of the modern medicines that
are available on prescription today owe their origins of raw material to higher plants of tropical forests
(1). Out of these, 74% are derived from plants that have some related use in traditional herbal medicine
(1).
Phytochemicals that improve human health can be consumed as fresh plant products like fruits and
vegetables, or at the other extreme as highly value-added processed forms (eg. extracts/powders/pills).
Where plant materials are concerned, it may be difficult to draw a sharp distinction between
‘nutraceuticals’, ‘herbal medicines’, ‘functional foods’ and ‘drugs’, as they all can contain bioactive
ingredients. However, they have in common the potential to enhance human health beyond the simple
supply of fuel for metabolic processes. In the 1990s the sale of health-promoting chemical compounds
extracted from food and plants increased dramatically in many countries (1). This was because
pharmaceutical companies began to produce nutraceuticals and they were commonly sold in
pharmacies (1).
Many foods consumed in Asia have been traditionally used to cure specific human ailments and the
philosophy behind Chinese medicine often reflects these usages. However, in the West where the
potential value of functional foods (and herbal medicines) has only recently captured the imagination,
these links to traditional uses remain largely unexplored.
Natural products and mainly plants (greater than 80%) are the basis of traditional Chinese medicine
(2). Approximately 5,000 plant species used in traditional Chinese medicine are believed to have
therapeutic qualities (2). About 500 plants are commonly prescribed by doctors of Chinese medicine
as Chinese Materia Medica, or traditional drugs, and these can be available in raw and processed or
concentrated form (2). Hundreds of years of practical application and experience have gone into
classifying the therapeutic use of ‘herbs’ and their associated properties. Chinese medicine has over
2,000 years of written history. Chinese medicinal herbals make up a large proportion of the over
US$15 billion annual worldwide sales of natural medicines (2)
Medical practice has taught us to understand that ethnopharmacological data is an important source of
new drugs. About 140 new drugs have originated directly or indirectly from Chinese medicinal plants
by means of modern scientific methods, confirming that these plants are an important resource (3).
Increasing emphasis on the use of medicinal plants in searching for new drugs is undoubtedly a correct
strategy (3).
In 2002–03, Australian expenditure on pharmaceuticals was approximately AU$10 billion (14% of
total health spending) (4). There is a huge market for plant products, especially those that may be
effective in treating our chronic diseases. Chinese medicines have been developed to treat all important
diseases.
Chronic diseases now affect one in four Australians which is partly due to the fact that more people are
living to older ages (4). By their very definition, chronic diseases are those involving a long course in
their development or their symptoms. They are a major health problem in all developed countries,
accounting for a high proportion of deaths, disability and illness (4). Yet many of these diseases are
preventable, or their onset can be delayed, by relatively simple measures. Most chronic diseases do not
resolve spontaneously and are generally not cured completely. Some can be immediately lifethreatening, such as heart attack and stroke, others are often serious, including various cancers,
depression and diabetes. However, they all tend to persist in an individual through life but are not
always the cause of death.
1
In addition to illness, pain and disability, chronic diseases are also a significant economic burden, both
on those who suffer from them and for the wider community. In Australia, spending on health
represents a large component of the economy; around AU$70 billion or approximately 10% of gross
domestic product (2002-03) (4). Chronic diseases account for around 20% of the total allocated
expenditure (4). Approximately 20% of our national health budget is spent in the Department of
Health and Aging Portfolio (2004-05) (4).
The top ten causes of disease burden in Australia are chronic diseases (4). These include coronary
heart disease, stroke, cancer, dementia, diabetes, asthma and osteoarthritis. In 2003, the top underlying
causes of death in Australians were coronary heart disease followed by stroke (4). Cancer has now
become the leading cause of death in Victoria (5). Around one million Australians are estimated to
have diabetes with the number expecting to increase over the coming decade (4,6). Diabetes mellitus is
predicted to soon become the biggest global epidemic in human history.
The majority of plant materials used in traditional Chinese medicine have not yet been clinically
evaluated in randomised, double-blind studies, and consequently Western medicine has not generally
accepted the efficacy or safety of Chinese treatments (7). Also, up until the turn of this century, data
about the safety and efficacy of medicinal herbs tended to be limited in a number of ways with the best
data often years old, limited to in vitro or animal studies, and/or only available in non-English
language journals (8). However, many of the old ‘mysteries’ of Chinese medicine are now being
elucidated on a biochemical basis with high quality ‘evidence-based’ scientific trials on plant materials
being undertaken both in the East and West. Nonetheless, only a handful of Chinese herbal products
have been widely adopted by Australians without a Chinese background.
This project aimed to conduct a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review which critically examined
the evidence-based health benefits to consumers of plant products used in traditional Chinese
medicine, and where relevant, plants from other Asian folk medicines. The focus has been on plant
products with the potential to bring preventative, palliative and curative benefits to sufferers of chronic
diseases in Australia.
Practically all of the plant material used in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine in Australia is
imported from China. Since many of the imported Chinese medicinal plant species are produced in
environments similar to those found in Australia, there is potential for domestic production and
supply. Domestic production of these botanicals would help ensure the safety, freshness and quality of
the material. In addition, China only cultivates about 100 species of its medicinal plants (9), so there is
potential to develop environmentally sustainable industries that could export.
Outcomes of this research include recommendations for new plant products that could bring both
economic benefits to Australian industries, and improved human health. Up-to-date medical
verification has been summarised so that effective identification and development of new products
aimed at the Australian (and other Western markets) can confidently proceed.
The Australian horticultural sector has developed strong capabilities in Asian vegetable production in
the past ten years but this review has encompassed additional products including other plant derived
materials like fruit, grains and oils. As a consequence, introducing new plants as sources of
phytochemicals could have a broad impact over several agricultural sectors.
2
Introduction references
1. Samy, J., Sugumaran, M. & Lee, K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed. K.M. Wong, Pub. Times
Editions - Marshall Cavendish, 244 pp.
2. Huo-Hsiung Lee, Hideji Itokawa & Mutsuo Kozuka (2005) Asian Herbal Products: The basis for
development of high-quality dietary supplements and new medicines, pp 21-72. In, Shi, J., Ho, C.T. &
F. Shahidi (Eds.) ‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
3. Chang-Xiao
Liu & Yaniv, Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from
Chinese plants, pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv, Z. & Bachrach, U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.Food Products Press - Haworth Press, 500 pp.
4. Australian Government, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare website, www.aihw.gov.au/
5. The Victorian Burden of Disease Study 2005, www.dhs.vic.gov.au/health/healthstatus/
6. Causes of Death Australia 2002. ABS Cat. No. 3303.0. Canberra: ABS.
7. Craker, L.E. & Giblette, J. (2002) Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production.
pp. 491-496. In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS
Press, Alexandria, VA.
8. O’Hara, M., Kiefer, D., Farrell, K. & Kemper, K. (1998) A review of 12 commonly used medicinal
herbs. Arch Fam Med., 7: 523-536.
9. Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv, Z.
& Bachrach, U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press,
500 pp.
3
2. Methodology
Species review - boundaries of the investigation
This review has targeted those Chinese medicinal plant species (and their derived products) that have
been documented to possess curative, preventive or palliative functions relevant to important chronic
ailments in Australia, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, dementia and asthma.
In addition, because they are important and topical, some plant treatments relevant to human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), liver protection, ‘golden staph’ (Staphylococcus aureus) and malaria
were also included. There is growing importance in the search for antimalarial plants because malaria,
particularly cerebral malaria, is on the increase (1). Climate change and rising sea levels may promote
the spread of this disease in northern Australia in the future.
The study has predominantly focussed on plants used in Chinese medicine and on plants with their
genetic origins in Asia. However, because the aim was to find new health promoters for Australians,
Asian plants used in non-Chinese folk medicine were sometimes included when relevant. Often these
were from countries that are near neighbours to China but frequently these plant species range over the
geographic borders of the region. These additional species typically derived from Indian, Japanese,
Myanmar and Malaysian folk medicine. In particular ‘Ayurveda’, the ancient Indian medical science
has employed many phytochemical based treatments.
For each pertinent plant, a summary profile was developed that generally included:
• botanical and common/vernacular names
• traditional ailments addressed
• biochemical basis for efficacy - active compounds
• scientific verification of disease control and healing - evidence of the plant product’s effects.
For the species that were evaluated to have the best potential in Australia, additional information is
sometimes provided, such as • plant parts used
• preparation and administration (dosage - oral, topical etc.)
• growing regions and brief outline of agronomy.
It should be noted that while Chinese medicinal plants are often tagged ‘herbs’ or ‘herbals’ these
descriptions simply refer to the fact that the materials are plant-based in origin. These terms do not
necessarily mean that the species is a herbaceous ie. a non-woody, higher plant. In fact, many of the
plants used in Chinese (and Asian) folk medicines derive from shrub or tree species.
The search
Chinese medicinal plants are often used as ‘medicines’ that are mixtures of more than one plant (2)
and sometimes non-plant materials. The literature review focussed on research that investigated the
separate efficacy of each target species, and in so doing has generally avoided the issue of which
component(s) in a concocted medicine are responsible for effects, or if all the herbs in the formula are
essential. The focus was on data from trials of single plants and their derivatives (ie.
monopreparations). Only rarely was a medicinal mix of herbs reviewed and only when all the herbal
components carried efficacy weight and the literature featured human trials.
For this report, all the screened literature pertaining to human health effects was science-based and
published either in recognised science and medical journals, or review text books by experts in the
field. No website information for efficacy data was used unless it represented papers from on-line
scientific journals or was affiliated with Australian research institutions. Product efficacy claims made
by website promotors and purveyors were not considered, and leaflet literature popularly used to
promote retailed ‘health’ products was similarly ignored.
Particular care has been taken to verify the correct genus and species names for investigated plants.
These scientific names were verified for up-to-date accuracy on the Germplasm Resources Information
4
Network (GRIN). GRIN taxonomic data provide the structure and nomenclature for accessions of the
National Plant Germplasm System, part of the National Genetic Resources Program of the United
States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service. In GRIN Taxonomy all families and
genera of vascular plants and over 40,000 species from throughout the world are represented.
The GRIN website is http://www.ars-grin.gov
and has been cited as:
USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program.
Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN) [Online Database].
National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Only very rarely was an attempt made to classify below the species level to eg. subspecies or variety.
Nonetheless, anyone interested in pursuing business interests in this field should be well aware that
active breeding for varieties (cultivars) or simple selection of localised ecotypes can lead to large
variance in phytochemical yields, and thus the medical functionality of the material can vary. In the
majority of cases, relevant literature did not classify plants below species level.
The presence of plant species in Australia was verified when necessary with the Australian Plant Name
Index (APNI).
http://www.anbg.gov.au/cgi-bin/apninames
Scientific and medical data were primarily (but not exclusively) sourced from the PubMed electronic
database (which also covers relevant Chinese journals) from inception to May 2006. PubMed is a
service of the United States National Library of Medicine that includes over 16 million citations from
MEDLINE and other life science journals for biomedical articles back to the 1950s. PubMed includes
links to full text articles and other related resources.
Pubmed website- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi
PubMed searches were initiated with an up-to-date plant species name and the search further refined
when necessary by considering name synonyms, only the most recent publications (typically 2002 to
2005) and human trials. Chinese language electronic databases were also screened for results from
human trials.
Typically the extraction of data was based on abstracts alone. Given the vast bulk of material that
required evaluation, multiple assessments of summarised abstract material were considered a superior
yield of overview information than detailed focus on a lesser number of full papers.
What constitutes good evidence ?
In theory, the most trustworthy evidence for herbal efficacy/causality should come from trials on
humans. However, the unique structure and experimental design of particular human trials still dictates
the reliability of derived data.
Human trials can take various forms –
• observational studies (also called epidemiological or population studies)
• controlled studies using an untreated group
• single-blind study
• double-blind comparative trial
• randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled (RDBPC) experiments.
RDBPC experiments are the best in terms of scientific design and rigour, and guarantee the most
dependable results. Their drawback can be considerable expense in both establishment (eg. sourcing
appropriate numbers of human subjects that meet required profile) and on-going evaluation (eg.
logistics of maintaining trials during prolonged, sometimes years of experimental conditions) to meet
stringent requirements of experimental plans and statistical analysis. There are also considerable
5
investments, and sometimes complicated procedural methods, needed to keep participants ‘blind’,
thereby protecting the validity of findings.
The processs of identifying potential drugs is very long, and the US National Cancer Institute
estimates that for every 10,000 plant extracts screened, less than 10 will reach the stage of clinical
testing (3). The time taken for the entire process of drug development including human trials can be
from 7 to 12 years, at a cost ranging from US$350 to US$500 million (3).
While RDBPC trials with humans are considered the most appropriate to prove causality, many claims
are made on lesser research. Often ‘health’ products available commercially over-the-counter have not
undergone evaluation in RDBPC trials, and may not have been evaluated scientifically in any type of
human trial to substantiate effects.
Other than well planned trials with human subjects, some support for efficacy of botanical products
can be derived from animal (usually mammal) trials where the testing takes place in live (ie. ‘in vivo’),
anatomically complete individuals. But because animals may process herbal products differently from
humans, results are not completely reliable. Nevertheless, animal testing is a very commonly taken
approach. For example, relatively recent testing of tea tree oil for antiinflammatory effects was
examined using mice (4).
Less reliable again is ‘test-tube’ testing using human cell-lines (sometimes tissues) derived from
humans and grown under controlled conditions in culture (ie. ‘in vitro’). However, such studies are
often only regarded as spurs for further research, they do not prove that a treatment is effective in real
life. A herbal product taken by mouth must be absorbed into the bloodstream, survive processing by
the liver and still manage to be effective when diluted by body fluids. It is a long step from in vitro
results to a treatment for humans that actually works. Nonetheless, in vitro testing is a considerably
cheaper alternative to in vivo testing either in humans or animals.
In vitro trials based on animal cell-lines and tissues can provide data but are at the limit of what can be
regarded as medically useful.
It is not always essential for a particular plant species to be directly investigated for it to obtain support
for causality. Often the positive benefits of consumption of particular plant chemical compounds (eg.
carotenoids, cumarins) have been proven and prospecting for new medicinal plant species is often
systematically undertaken using knowledge of chemotaxonomy (3). Many of these compounds tend to
occur within distinct plant families, so that when a phytochemical is newly shown to occur in a
previously uninvestigated species, inferences are made as to possible efficacy. These are sometimes
termed ‘linked’ or ‘unsubstantiated’ claims.
There is one increasingly popular argument that suggests if a herb or herbal product has medical
efficacy data from human cell-line and animal studies and is safe to consume, it should be incorporated
into the diet, even without human testing. This thinking suggests that the expense involved in RDBPC
(and other human) testing and a lack of commercial incentive may prohibit human trials on many
species ever taking place. Medical ‘proof’ may well come too late for many sufferers of terminal
diseases for which there is currently no reliable ‘non-herbal’ cure in conventional medicine.
Increasingly, traditional and folk use of a species is viewed as positive evidence of non-experimental
efficacy. It is now understood that ethnopharmacological data is important in developing new drugs
(5). Since medicinal plants have been used for centuries and tested by billions of people, there has
been ample opportunity to find satisfactory medicinal agents and to solve problems of toxicity and
side-effects (5).
To some extent the evidence constituting efficacy is a matter of consumer opinion. This is well
demonstrated by the large proportion of the population that is prepared to invest in herbal medicines
(not just Chinese) and dietary supplements without positive evidence from human data; consider the
monetary value of sales for unverified medicines. At the extreme, some medicines/supplements still
have a considerable consumer base even after they have been tested and the best available analysis of
6
their efficacy suggests that they are ineffective. Compare the situation to consumption of fatty
processed foods; human testing has proven that they are detrimental to health but consumer
purchasing remains strong.
A recent published review points to modernisation and internationalisation as key issues in progression
of traditional Chinese medicine (6). Development of Chinese medicine needs to depend more on use of
international standardised scientific evaluation. This 2005 review found that less than 30% of papers in
traditional Chinese medicine journals had used randomised controlled trials (6).
Methodology references
1. Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and industrial products - the
potential for Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
2. Blumenthal, M. (1999) Medical Journals Report on Herbal and Alternative Medicine: Articles in
AMA Journals Contrast with NEJM. HerbalGram., 46: 29-35,51,52.
3. Samy, J., Sugumaran, M. & Lee, K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- Wong, K.M., Pub.- Times
Editions - Marshall Cavendish, 244 pp.
4. Finlay-Jones, J., Hart, P., Riley, T. & Carson, C. (2002) The anti-inflammatory and anti-itch
properties of tea tree oil- in vivo studies. RIRDC publication No. 02/053, 24 pp.
5. Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv, Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from
Chinese plants, pp 61-96. In, Yaniv, Z. & Bachrach, U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.Food Products Press - Haworth Press, 500 pp.
6. Li, T.Q., Wang, G., Wang, L. & Mao, B. (2005) Clinical trials of traditional Chinese medicine in
China: status and evaluation. Chinese J of Evidence-based Medicine, 5(6): 431-437.
7
3. Results
General observations
The following information pertaining to Chinese medicinal plants was established in the review
process •
Not all plant species used in Chinese medicine are indigenous to China
•
Traditional usage of a particular species may differ from the modern usage
•
Modern Chinese medicine may use plant species that were not traditionally utilised
•
Western medicine sometimes uses plants from traditional Chinese medicine but not necessarily for
a purpose in common with the Chinese use
•
Often Chinese traditional medicines are a combination of various herbs and while efficacy data
may exist for a particular concoction, the role of individual herbal components in contributing to
medical benefits will not be clear unless additional testing of the separate plant species has taken
place
•
Some Chinese medicinal plants are indigenous to Australia
•
It would be fair to suggest that the curative powers ascribed to particular plant species has
contracted in recent times as more evidence-based evaluation for efficacy reduces the incidence of
broad spectrum claims and panaceas. However, lists have also added more modern pandemic
ailments like heart disease, obesity, elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes
•
A vast array of plant types are used in Chinese medicine but overall numbers tend to be increased
by nomenclature duplicities surrounding the use of synonyms, varieties/cultivars/selections and
regional variants/genotypes. A large proportion of the species presented here had name synonyms
and there were also points of confusion regarding the appropriate spelling of names
•
It was established that species with efficacy credibility tend to have a very recent history of strong
scientific investigation. Those plant species that were investigated in the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s and
not more recently, tended not to have support from rigorous scientific trials.
8
Species review - Background
The following list of plant species is arranged alphabetically and based on binomial, scientific names.
The name that appears within round ( ) brackets is the typical Mandarin-Chinese ‘common’ or
‘vernacular’ name for the species. These Chinese common names tend to vary as do Western common
names, as opposed to scientific names. However, this issue is further complicated by the AnglifiedWesternised translation of the Chinese common names. Names that follow brackets are alternative
(often Western but sometimes non-Chinese Asian) common names. Not all common names have
necessarily been listed.
When the species is used in Asian medicine other than Chinese, the predominant common name
appears in square [ ] brackets with the linked country preceding the name. These species may be used
in multiple countries but no attempt has been made to document more than one common name from a
relevant source and region.
Sometimes the scientific name in referenced abstracts is different from that used in the species
summary. The summaries have used up-to-date GRIN (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources
Program, National Germplasm Resources Laboratory) names. Plant scientific name changes are
relatively common and many plants in the review list have been the subject of relatively recent change.
Although references may be recent, some persist in use of obsolete names.
The code ‘R’ in brace { } brackets refers to the number of references considered in reviewing the
species. Supporting references presented in each species summary tend to be key or representative
information pertaining to that plant.
An attempt has not been made to determine if each species is currently extant in Australia.
Nonetheless, some effort has been made to establish if the species with best efficacy data are grown in
Australia and whether they are current commercial crops, ‘fledgling’ crops or proposed options. Of
course, any favoured species not currently in Australia could be imported subject to quarantine
procedures and evaluation to eliminate potential disease/weed threats.
Where a species is a current commercial crop in Australia, the medical evidence has not always been
fully reviewed, and consequently the reference review number {R} is not presented. The focus was
generally on potential new crops.
NOTE: Not all precautions, toxicities and contraindications have been documented here. It is wise to
use herbs carefully and seek professional opinions before use.
9
4. Species review
Achyranthes bidentata (NIU XI) two tooth achyranthes or chaff flower {R14}
Studies on rodents have demonstrated antitumour activity (1), antiinflammatory action (2), antiasthma
(3) and cognition-enhancing/antiamnesic effects (4).
1.Yu S. & Zhang Y. (1995) Effect of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP) on antitumor activity and
immune function of S180-bearing mice. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi., 17(4): 275-278.
2.Lu T., Mao C., Zhang L. & Xu, W. (1997) The research on analgestic and anti-inflammatory action of different
processed products of Achyranthes bidentata. Zhong Yao Cai., 20(10): 507-509.
3.Li C.C., Hu X.G., Zhang W.X., Xie L.W., Zhang H.Y., Dong L., Cai X.H., Wu R.X., Zhang Z.X. & He Q.S.
(2003) Eosinophils apoptosis, fas mRNA and bcl-2 mRNA expressions in asthma model of young rat and effects
of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides. Zhonghua Er Ke Za Zhi., 41(9): 657-660.
4.Lin Y.C., Wu C.R., Lin C.J. & Hsieh M.T. (2003) The ameliorating effects of cognition-enhancing Chinese
herbs on scopolamine- and MK-801-induced amnesia in rats. Am J Chin Med., 31(4): 543-549.
Aconitum brachypodum (YI XHI GAO or YI ZHI HAU) {R3}
Traditionally used in Chinese folk medicine to relieve arthritic pain (1). No efficacy data could be
retrieved from the scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Aconitum carmichaeli (CHUAN WU) Japanese aconite or Sichuan aconite {R5}
The root/tuber of Aconitum carmichaeli is believed to possess antiinflammatory, analgesic and
cardiotonic effects and has been used in Chinese materia medica mainly for the treatment of
musculoskeletal disorders including joint pain in rheumatic and rheumatoid arthritis (1,2). However, it
contains highly toxic diterpenoid alkaloids (3). After ingestion, patients may present with signs and
symptoms that are typical of aconitine poisoning (4). Death may occur from ventricular arrhythmias.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Chang, J.G., Shih P.P., Chang C.P., Chang J.M., Wang F.Y. & Tseng J.(1994) The stimulating effect of Radix
aconiti extract on cytokines secretion by human mononuclear cells. Planta Medica., 60: 576-578.
3.Chan T.Y., Tomlinson B., Tse L.K., Chan J.C., Chan W.W. & Critchley J.A. (1994) Aconitine poisoning due to
Chinese herbal medicines: a review. Vet Hum Toxicol., 36(5): 452-455.
4.Chan T.Y., Chan J.C., Tomlinson B., Critchley J.A. (1994) Poisoning by Chinese herbal medicines in Hong
Kong: a hospital-based study. Vet Hum Toxicol., 36(6): 546-547.
Acorus tararinowii (SHI CHANG PU) {R5}
The root/rhizome of Acorus tararinowii is traditionally used to treat mental disturbance, arthralgia and
general musculoskeletal problems (1). However, there is little support from scientific literature. Note:
this scientific name is under review.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Actaea cimicifuga (SHENG MA) Chinese cimicifuga, bugbane or foetid bugbane {R5}
Compounds from the aerial parts have demonstrated cytotoxicity against various cancer cell-lines (1).
1.Tian Z., Pan R.L., Si J. & Xiao P.G.(2006) Cytotoxicity of cycloartane triterpenoids from aerial part of
Cimicifuga foetida. Fitoterapia, 77(1): 39-42.
Actaea dahurica (SHENG MA) {R7}
Isoferulic acid extracted from the rhizome of Actaea dahurica had antihyperglycaemic activity in
spontaneously diabetic rats (1). A recent study using cancer cell-lines examined the cytotoxicity of
three cycloartane triterpenoids isolated from the aerial parts and concluded that the compounds
possessed potential antitumour activity (2).
1.Liu I.M., Chi T.C., Hsu F.L., Chen C.F. & Cheng J.T. (1999) Isoferulic acid as active principle from the
rhizoma of Cimicifuga dahurica to lower plasma glucose in diabetic rats. Planta Med., 65(8): 712-714.
2.Tian Z., Yang M., Huang F., Li K., Si J., Shi L., Chen S. & Xiao P. (2005) Cytotoxicity of three cycloartane
triterpenoids from Cimicifuga dahurica. Cancer Lett., 226(1): 65-75.
Actaea heracleifolia (SHENG MA) {R6}
Actaea heracleifolia is used in traditional medicine for treating inflammation. These antiinflammatory
effects can probably be attributed to ‘ferulic acid’ and ‘isoferulic acid’, which are the main active
components of the rhizome (1). ‘Sodium ferulate’ is another of this plant’s active principles and it has
been approved by the State Drugs Administration of China for treatment of cardiovascular and
10
cerebrovascular diseases (2). Sodium ferulate has been widely used for several decades in Chinese
medicine to treat these diseases. A recent review article concluded that sodium ferulate has
antithrombotic, platelet aggregation inhibitory activity (an important factor in lowering the risk for
coronary artery disease) and antioxidant activities in animals and humans (2). Clinical results have
been obtained for sodium ferulate use in coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, pulmonary heart
disease and thrombosis (2). Its safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in clinical practice, and in
vitro and in vivo data support the view that sodium ferulate is a useful drug for treatment of
cardiovascular diseases (2).
1.Sakai S., Kawamata H., Kogure T., Mantani N., Terasawa K., Umatake M. & Ochiai H. (1999)
Inhibitory effect of ferulic acid and isoferulic acid on the production of macrophage inflammatory protein-2 in
response to respiratory syncytial virus infection in RAW264.7 cells. Mediators Inflamm., 8(3):173-175.
2.Wang B.H. & Ou-Yang J.P. (2005) Pharmacological actions of sodium ferulate in cardiovascular system.
Cardiovasc Drug Rev., 23(2): 161-172.
Adenophora triphylla (NAN SHA SHEN or SHA SENG) ladybell or bellfower {R5}
Extracts from Adenophora triphylla displayed tumouricidal effects in vitro (human Jurkat T cells) and
in vivo (rats), suggesting that this plant could yield chemopreventive agents against gastric cancer (1).
More supportive results from additional research required.
1.Lee I.S., Yang E.J., Kim H.S., Chung S.K., Furukawa F. & Nishikawa A. (2000) Suppressive effects of
Adenophora triphylla extracts on in vitro tumor cell growth and in vivo gastric epithelial proliferation. Anticancer
Res., 20(5A): 3227-3231.
Adhatoda vasica [Myanmar- MUYAR-GYI] Malabar tree {R10}
The roots and leaves are traditionally used to treat asthma (1). No efficacy data could be retrieved from
the scientific literature.
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe, T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
Adina rubella (SHEI YIANG MEI GEN) {R4}
This herb is said to possess anticancer activity (1) but no relevant material could be retrieved from the
scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Adonis amurensis (PIN LIANG HUA or FU SHE TSAO) adonis or Korean adonis {R4}
Traditionally believed to dilate coronary blood vessels and increase blood flow (1). Like other Adonis
species, may contain cardioactive glycosides (2) but possibly offers no special advantage over
Digitalis (3). ‘Cymarin’ and ‘cymarol’ from the methanol extract exhibited potent cytotoxicity against
human solid tumour cell-line A549 (lung carcinoma), while being inactive on mouse leukaemic cells
(4).
1.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
2.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
3.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
4.You Y.J., Kim Y., Nam N.H. & Ahn B.Z. (2003) Inhibitory effect of Adonis amurensis components on tubelike formation of human umbilical venous cells. Phytother Res., 17(5): 568-70.
Adonis chrysocyathus (FU SHOU CAO or BING LIAN HUA) {R3}
This herb exhibits a digitalis-like action on the heart muscle (1). Like other Adonis species, may
contain cardioactive glycosides (2) but possibly offers no special advantage over Digitalis (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
3.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
11
Aegle marmelos [Myanmar- OKE-SHIT] bael tree, Bengal quince, golden apple or Indian quince
{R11}
Traditionally used for heart palpitations, asthma, diabetes and arthritis (1). A methanolic extract of
Aegle marmelos reduced blood sugar in alloxan-induced diabetic rats (2). Extracts also inhibited in
vitro proliferation of human tumour cells (3,4).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Sabu M.C. & Kuttan R. (2004) Antidiabetic activity of Aegle marmelos and its relationship with its antioxidant
properties. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol., 48(1): 81-88.
3.Lambertini E., Piva R., Khan M.T., Lampronti I., Bianchi N., Borgatti M. & Gambari R. (2004) Effects of
extracts from Bangladeshi medicinal plants on in vitro proliferation of human breast cancer cell lines and
expression of estrogen receptor alpha gene. Int J Oncol., 24(2): 419-423.
4.Lampronti I., Martello D., Bianchi N., Borgatti M., Lambertini E., Piva R., Jabbar S., Choudhuri M.S., Khan
M.T. & Gambari R. (2003) In vitro antiproliferative effects on human tumor cell lines of extracts from the
Bangladeshi medicinal plant Aegle marmelos Correa. Phytomedicine, 10(4): 300-308.
Aesculus chinensis (SUO LOU ZI) Chinese horse chestnut, seven leaves tree or monkey chestnut
{R9}
Saponins from the seeds showed inhibitory activity towards human immunodeficiency virus-1
protease (1), and antiinflammatory activity in mice (2).
1.Yang X.W., Zhao J., Cui Y.X., Liu X.H., Ma C.M., Hattori M. & Zhang L.H. (1999) Anti-HIV-1 protease
triterpenoid saponins from the seeds of Aesculus chinensis. J Nat Prod., 62(11): 1510-1513.
2.Wei F., Ma L.Y., Jin W.T., Ma S.C., Han G.Z., Khan I.A. & Lin R.C. (2004) Antiinflammatory triterpenoid
saponins from the seeds of Aesculus chinensis. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 52(10): 1246-1248.
Aesculus hippocastanum (SUO LOU ZI) horse chestnut {R14}
This species is native to Europe but widely cultivated elsewhere (including Australia) and used by
Chinese medical practitioners (1,2). Valued for venous disorders such as varicose veins with efficacy
supported by good evidence (3,4,5,6,7).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
4.Dickson S., Gallagher J., McIntyre L., Suter A. & Tan J. (2004) An open study to assess the safety and efficacy
of Aesculus hippocastanum tablets (Aesculaforce 50 mg) in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. J Herb
Pharmacother., 4(2): 19-32.
5.Pittler M.H. & Ernst E. (2004) Horse chestnut seed extract for chronic venous insufficiency. Cochrane
Database Syst Rev., 2: CD003230.
6.Ottillinger B. & Greeske K. (2001) Rational therapy of chronic venous insufficiency-chances and limits of the
therapeutic use of horse-chestnut seeds extract. BMC Cardiovasc Disord., 1: 5.
7.Sirtori C.R. (2001) Aescin: pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic profile. Pharmacol Res., 44(3):
183-193.
Agastache rugosa (HUO XIANG) agastache, Korean mint, Chinese giant hyssop or giant
wrinkled hyssop {R2}
Lignan compounds from Agastache rugosa inhibited etoposide-induced apoptosis in U937 cells (1). A
diterpenoid quinone isolated from the roots showed non-specific cytotoxic activities against several
human cancer cell-lines (2). In other work, an aqueous methanolic extract of the roots exhibited
significant activity against human immunodeficiency virus integrase (3).
Adhesion molecules such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 play an important role during the early
stages of atherogenesis. A. rugosa extract had an antiatherogenic effect in low density lipoprotein
receptor mice (4).
1.Lee C., Kim H. & Kho Y.(2002) Agastinol and agastenol, novel lignans from Agastache rugosa and their
evaluation in an apoptosis inhibition assay. J Nat Prod. 65(3): 414-416.
2.Lee H.K., Oh S.R., Kim J.I., Kim J.W. & Lee C.O. (1995) Agastaquinone, a new cytotoxic diterpenoid quinone
from Agastache rugosa. J Nat Prod., 58(11): 1718-1721.
3.Kim H.K., Lee H.K., Shin C.G. & Huh H. (1999) HIV integrase inhibitory activity of Agastache rugosa. Arch
Pharm Res., 22(5): 520-523.
4.Hong J.H., Choi J.H., Oh S.R., Lee H.K., Park J.H., Lee K.Y., Kim J.J., Jeong T.S. & Oh G.T. (2001)
Inhibition of cytokine-induced vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 expression; possible mechanism for antiatherogenic effect of Agastache rugosa. FEBS Lett., 495(3): 142-147.
12
Agrimonia pilosa (XIAN HE CAO) agrimonia herb {R17}
A whole plant methanol extract of Agrimonia pilosa demonstrated in vitro anti-human
immunodeficiency virus type-1 activity (1). Investigation of an aqueous extract of the roots found
hepatoprotective activity in vitro for chemically induced cytotoxicity in human and rat liver cells (2).
Mouse trials indicated that the roots contain some antitumour constituents (3). ‘Agrimoniin’ from A.
pilosa is reported as a potent antitumour tannin with effects possibly due to enhancement of immune
response in host animals (4,5).
1.Min B.S., Kim Y.H., Tomiyama M., Nakamura N., Miyashiro H., Otake T. & Hattori M. (2001) Inhibitory
effects of Korean plants on HIV-1 activities. Phytother Res., 15(6): 481-486.
2.Park E.J., Oh H., Kang T.H., Sohn D.H. & Kim Y.C. (2004) An isocoumarin with hepatoprotective activity in
Hep G2 and primary hepatocytes from Agrimonia pilosa. Arch Pharm Res., 27(9): 944-946.
3.Koshiura R., Miyamoto K., Ikeya Y. & Taguchi H. (1985) Antitumor activity of methanol extract from roots of
Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb. Jpn J Pharmacol., 38(1): 9-16.
4.Miyamoto K., Kishi N., & Koshiura R. (1987) Antitumor effect of agrimoniin, a tannin of Agrimonia pilosa
Ledeb., on transplantable rodent tumors. Jpn J Pharmacol., 43(2): 187-195.
5.Murayama T., Kishi N., Koshiura R., Takagi K., Furukawa T. & Miyamoto K. (1992) Agrimoniin, an
antitumor tannin of Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb., induces interleukin-1. Anticancer Res., 12(5): 1471-1474.
Ailanthus altissima (CHUN PI) Chinese sumach bark, Ailanthus, China-sumac, Chinese tree-ofheaven, stinktree, varnishtree, hemelboom or tree-of-heaven {R9}
Ailanthus altissima was evaluated for its cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities by a bioassayoriented study (1). Cytotoxicity was observed in HeLa cells and possible apoptotic effect was
evaluated by monitoring the presence of hypodiploid elements in HeLa cells as well as in SAOS,
U87MG and U-937 tumour cell-lines. Cells incubated for different times with A. altissima active
extract, fraction and pure alkaloid showed remarkable increase in apoptosis (1). Three new quassinoids
(ailantinol E, ailantinol F, and ailantinol G), and related compounds were isolated from A. altissima
grown in Taiwan and evaluated for antitumour promoting effects against Epstein-Barr virus early
antigen activation introduced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate in Raji cells (2). The new
quassinoids were found to show potent activity without showing any cytotoxicity.
In order to find novel anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) agents from natural products, 80
methanol extracts of Korean plants were applied to a syncytia formation inhibition assay, which is
based on the interaction between the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120/41 and the cellular
membrane protein CD4 of T lymphocytes (3). The most potent HIV-1 fusion inhibition was shown by
the stem bark of A. altissima. In up-to-date work, it was reported that fruit extracts showed in vitro
antimicrobial activity (4).
Cultivated or naturalised in Europe, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, Mexico,
South America, Azores and Hawaii (5). A noxious weed in Australia (5).
1.De Feo V., Martino L.D., Santoro A., Leone A., Pizza C., Franceschelli S. & Pascale M. (2005)
Antiproliferative effects of tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima Swingle). Phytother Res., 19(3): 226-230.
2.Tamura S., Fukamiya N., Okano M., Koyama J., Koike K., Tokuda H., Aoi W., Takayasu J., Kuchide M. &
Nishino, H. (2003) Three new quassinoids, ailantinol E, F, and G, from Ailanthus altissima. Chem Pharm Bull
(Tokyo)., 51(4): 385-389.
3.Chang Y.S. & Woo E.R. (2003) Korean medicinal plants inhibiting to human immunodeficiency virus type 1
(HIV-1) fusion. Phytother Res., 17(4): 426-429.
4.Zhao C.C., Shao J.H., Li X., Xu J. & Zhang P. (2005) Antimicrobial constituents from fruits of Ailanthus
altissima SWINGLE. Arch Pharm Res., 28(10): 1147-1151.
5.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Akebia quinata (YU ZHI ZI) five leaf akebia or chocolate vine {R6}
The stem of Akebia quinata has been used to treat urinary tract inflammatory disease. Saponins in
medicinal plants may act as bioactive components after biodegradation to sapogenins in the
gastrointestinal tract. Results from testing on rats suggested that observed antinociceptive and
antiinflammatory properties of the stem of A. quinata can be attributed to the sapogenins ‘oleanolic
acid’ and ‘hederagenin’ (1). Saponins from A. quinata have also shown nitric oxide inhibition and
cytotoxicity against cancer cells in vitro (2)
1.Choi J., Jung H.J., Lee K.T. & Park H.J. (2005) Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the saponin
and sapogenins obtained from the stem of Akebia quinata. J Med Food., 8(1): 78-85.
13
2.Jung, H.J., Lee C.O., Lee K.T., Choi J. & Park H.J. (2004) Structure-activity relationship of oleanane
disaccharides isolated from Akebia quinata versus cytotoxicity against cancer cells and NO inhibition. Biol
Pharm Bull., 27(5): 744-747.
Akebia trifoliata (YU ZHI ZI) three leaf akebia or chocolate vine {R4}
Traditionally used to promote blood circulation for relief of pain (1). Good yields of saponins (2)
which may act as bioactive components, possibly with antinociceptive and antiinflammatory activity.
Little direct evidence for efficacy.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Mimaki Y., Kuroda M., Yokosuka A., Harada H., Fukushima M. & Sashida Y. (2003) Triterpenes and
triterpene saponins from the stems of Akebia trifoliata. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 51(8): 960-965.
Albizia julibrissin (HE HUAN PI) silktree, silk tree albizia or mimosa {R13}
Stem bark of Albizia julibrissin is specified in Chinese pharmacopoeia as a traditional medicine used
to relieve melancholia and uneasiness of body and mind (1), invigorate blood circulation (1) and
stimulate memory (2). The flowers contain flavonol glycosides and investigation of their sedative
activity showed increased sleeping time in mice (3). Compounds isolated from the stem bark have
demonstrated radical scavenging activity (4,5). Saponins from A. julibrissin showed marked cytotoxic
activity against cancer cell-lines (6,7,8).
1.Yu D.H., Qiao S.Y. & Zhao Y.M. (2004) Advances in study on bark of Albizzia julibrissin. Zhongguo Zhong
Yao Za Zhi., 29(7): 619-624.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Kang T.H., Jeong S.J., Kim N.Y., Higuchi R. & Kim Y.C. (2000) Sedative activity of two flavonol glycosides
isolated from the flowers of Albizzia julibrissin Durazz.. J Ethnopharmacol. , 71(1-2): 321-323.
4.Jung M.J., Kang S.S., Jung H.A., Kim G.J. & Choi J.S. (2004) Isolation of flavonoids and a cerebroside from
the stem bark of Albizzia julibrissin. Arch Pharm Res., 27(6): 593-599.
5.Jung M.J., Kang S.S., Jung Y.J. & Choi J.S. (2004) Phenolic glycosides from the stem bark of Albizzia
julibrissin. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 52(12): 1501-1503.
6.Zou K., Tong W.Y., Liang H., Cui J.R., Tu G.Z., Zhao Y.Y. & Zhang R.Y. (2005) Diastereoisomeric saponins
from Albizia julibrissin. Carbohydr Res., 340(7): 1329-1334.
7.Zou K., Cui J.R., Wang B., Zhao Y.Y. & Zhang R.Y. (2005) A pair of isomeric saponins with cytotoxicity
from Albizzia julibrissin. J Asian Nat Prod Res., 7(6): 783-789.
8.Zheng L., Zheng J., Zhao Y., Wang B., Wu L. & Liang H. (2006) Three anti-tumor saponins from Albizia
julibrissin. Bioorg Med Chem Lett., 16(10): 2765-2768.
Albizia lebbeck [India- PIT SHIRISH SHIRISHA, Myanmar- KOKKO] East Indian walnut,
frywood, koko, lebbek, siristree, women's tongue tree, lebbekboom or parrot tree {R10}
This species is traditionally used to treat asthma (1,2). In an uncontrolled clinical study of 60 patients
with asthma it was found that response to Albizia lebbeck depended on the duration of the disease (2).
Response was excellent for asthma of recent onset (less than two years) but results were less
predictable in older cases. Results from a study of rats showed that A. lebbeck appeared to inhibit the
early processes of sensitisation and synthesis of reaginic-type antibodies (3). If A. lebbeck was given
during the first week of sensitisation it markedly inhibited the early sensitising processes, while if
given during the second week it suppressed antibody production during the period of drug
administration. The active ingredients of the bark were heat-stable and water-soluble.
In more recent work, the effect of saponin containing, n-butanolic fraction, extracted from dried leaves
of A. lebbeck, was studied on cognitive behaviour (learning and memory) and anxiety in mice (4,5).
Results showed significant improvement in the retention ability of the normal and amnesic mice as
compared to their respective controls. Data emanating from the study suggested involvement of
gamma-aminobutyric acid/monoamine neurotransmitters in the nootropic and anxiolytic activity of
saponins obtained from A. lebbeck (4,5). Potential for production in Australia (6).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe, T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
3.Tripathi R.M., Sen P.C. & Das P.K. (1979) Studies on the mechanism of action of Albizzia lebbeck, an Indian
indigenous drug used in the treatment of atopic allergy. J Ethnopharmacol., 1(4): 385-396.
4.Une H.D., Sarveiya V.P., Pal S.C., Kasture V.S. & Kasture S.B. (2001) Nootropic and anxiolytic activity of
saponins of Albizzia lebbeck leaves. Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 69(3-4): 439-444.
5.Chintawar S.D., Somani R.S., Kasture V.S. & Kasture SB. (2002) Nootropic activity of Albizzia lebbeck in
mice. J Ethnopharmacol., 81(3): 299-305.
14
6.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Alisma plantago-aquatica (ZE XIE) water plantain {R4}
This plant grows widely in marshes in southern China and has traditional uses in cardiovascular
disease, diabetes and as an antibacterial (1). Animal experiments, revealed some antibacterial action
and also seemed to lower blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol (1). Later human clinical
trials are reported to have shown that Alisma plantago-aquatica can lower plasma cholesterol levels
(2). However, the scientific literature on this species is very limited.
1.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Allium macrostemon (XIE BAI) long stamen onion, Chinese chive, Chinese garlic, macrostem
onion or Japanese garlic {R8}
Extracts can inhibit human platelet aggregation in vitro (1,2,3).
1.He X.J., Wang N.L., Qiu F. & Yao X.S. (2003) Research on active constituents research of gualou xiebai
baijiutang (III). The active flavanoids. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(5): 420-423.
2.Peng J., Yao X., Kobayashi H. & Ma C. (1995) Novel furostanol glycosides from Allium macrostemon. Planta
Med., 61(1): 58-61.
3.Peng J.P., Wang X. & Yao X.S. (1993) Studies on two new furostanol glycosides from Allium macrostemon
Bunge. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 28(7): 526-531.
Allium sativum (TA SUAN) garlic
Current commercial crop in Australia, although much is imported. One of the forty most important
herbs in industrialised Western countries (1). A number of studies have demonstrated the protective
effects of garlic consumption against human cancers (2). When garlic cells are crushed, ‘alliin’ is
degraded and converted to ‘allicin’. Allicin shows antibacterial properties and decreases blood
cholesterol levels (3). Another key outcome from garlic intake is suppression of platelet aggregation
(4).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Mantle D. & Wilkins R. (2005) Medicinal plants in the prevention and therapy of cancer, pp. 281-318. In,
Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500
pp.
3.Lee H., Itokawa H. & Kozuka M. (2005) Asian Herbal Products: The basis for development of high-quality
dietary supplements and new medicines, pp. 21-72. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & F. Shahidi (Eds.) ‘Asian Functional
Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
4.Ariga T. & Seki T. (2005) Functional foods from garlic and onion, pp. 433-489. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & F.
Shahidi (Eds.) ‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
Alpinia hainanensis (CAO DOU KOU) katsumada’s galangal seed {R7}
A member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), Alpinia hainanensis has been widely used in
traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions such as emesis and gastric disorders.
Cardamonin, one of the main constituents from the seeds has antibacterial, antiinflammatory and other
important therapeutic activity (1). 7,8-Dihydroxyflavanone, isolated from the seeds was found to have
an in vitro cytotoxic effect against A549 (human lung cancer cell-line) and K562 (human leukaemia
cell-line) (2). Various aspects of antioxidant activity were evaluated in a total extract derived from A.
hainanensis (3). This extract enhanced viability of Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cells and inhibited
induced apoptosis. The total extract also showed significant antioxidant activity that was comparable
to antioxidant compounds such as EGCG and resveratrol (3).
1.He W., Li Y., Liu J., Hu Z. & Chen X. (2005) Specific interaction of chalcone-protein: cardamonin binding site
II on the human serum albumin molecule. Biopolymers, 79(1): 48-57.
2.Hahm E.R., Park S. & Yang C.H. (2003) 7, 8-dihydroxyflavanone as an inhibitor for Jun-Fos-DNA complex
formation and its cytotoxic effect on cultured human cancer cells. Nat Prod Res., 17(6): 431-436.
3.Lee S.E., Shin H.T., Hwang H.J. & Kim J.H. (2003) Antioxidant activity of extracts from Alpinia katsumadai
seed. Phytother Res., 17(9): 1041-1047.
15
Alpinia officinarum (GAO LIANG JIANG) lesser galangal, petite galangal or Chinese ginger
{R21}
‘Galangin’ is a flavonol which is present in high concentrations in Alpinia officinarum. Results from in
vitro and in vivo studies indicate that galangin’s antioxidative and free radical scavenging activities are
capable of modulating enzyme activity and suppressing the genotoxicity of chemicals; thereby making
it a promising candidate for cancer chemoprevention (1). Other compounds from the rhizome have
antioxidant activity (2,3,4). Recent work has established that extracts from A. officinarum can exhibit
cytotoxicity against human cancer cell-lines (5). A pancreatic lipase inhibitor from the rhizome
significantly lowered serum triglyceride and cholesterol of hyperlipidaemic mice (6,7).
Antiinflammatory properties have been demonstrated in vitro with mouse and human cells (8).
1.Heo M.Y., Sohn S.J. & Au W.W. (2001) Anti-genotoxicity of galangin as a cancer chemopreventive agent
candidate. Mutat Res, 488(2): 135-150.
2.Ly T.N., Shimoyamada M., Kato K. & Yamauchi R. (2004) Antioxidative compounds isolated from the
rhizomes of smaller galanga (Alpinia officinarum Hance). Biofactors., 21(1-4): 305-308.
3.Ly T.N., Shimoyamada M., Kato K. & Yamauchi R. (2003) Isolation and characterization of some
antioxidative compounds from the rhizomes of smaller galanga (Alpinia officinarum Hance). J Agric Food
Chem., 51(17): 4924-4929.
4.Lee S.E., Hwang H.J., Ha J.S., Jeong H.S. & Kim J.H. (2003) Screening of medicinal plant extracts for
antioxidant activity. Life Sci., 73(2): 167-179.
5.Lee C.C. & Houghton P. (2005) Cytotoxicity of plants from Malaysia and Thailand used traditionally to treat
cancer. J Ethnopharmacol., 100(3): 237-243.
6.Shin J.E., Han M.J., Song M.C., Baek N.I. & Kim D.H. (2004) 5-Hydroxy-7-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)-1phenyl-3-heptanone: a pancreatic lipase inhibitor isolated from Alpinia officinarum. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(1):
138-140.
7.Shin J.E., Joo Han M. & Kim D.H. (2003) 3-Methylethergalangin isolated from Alpinia officinarum inhibits
pancreatic lipase. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(6): 854-857.
8.Yadav P.N., Liu Z. & Rafi M.M. (2003) A diarylheptanoid from lesser galangal (Alpinia officinarum) inhibits
proinflammatory mediators via inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase, p44/42, and transcription factor
nuclear factor-kappa B. J Pharmacol Exp Ther., 305(3): 925-931.
Alpinia oxyphylla (YI ZHI) sharp leaf galangal or black cardamon {R11}
Another species in the ginger family, Alpinia oxyphylla is used in Oriental herbal medicine for the
treatment of various symptoms accompanying hypertension and cerebrovascular disorders (1). A 50%
ethanolic extract from the seed vessel of fruit from Alpinia oxyphylla was investigated and showed
antidementia effects and increased learning function in animals (2). In more recent work, the
protective effect of ethanol extract from the fruits on glutamate-induced neuronal apoptosis was
examined in primary cultured mouse cortical neurons (3). Fruit extract in the presence of glutamate
showed neuroprotective function with significantly elevated cell viability, reduced number of
apoptotic cells and decreased intensity of glutamate-induced DNA fragmentation (3).
Building on these findings, a study was performed to investigate the effects of water-extracts of the
fruit on a cultured primary neuron cell system, cell cytotoxicity and lipid peroxidation in Abeta
treatment conditions (1). Abeta-induced cell death was protected by the extract in a dose-dependent
manner. Other evidence indicated that the extract protected neurons against ischaemia-induced cell
death. Oral administration of the fruit extract to mice prevented ischaemia-induced learning disability
and rescued hippocampal CA1 neurons from lethal ischaemic damage. The neuroprotective action of
exogenous extract was also confirmed by counting synapses (1). The compounds in A. oxyphylla may
exert their neuroprotective effect by reducing the nitric oxide-mediated formation of free radicals or
antagonising their toxicity (1).
A. oxyphylla contains diarylheptanoids whose structures are analogous to that of ‘curcumin’ which has
been shown to inhibit tumour promotion in experimental carcinogenesis (4). In a study that tested this
species for its ability to suppress tumour promotion, topical application of the methanolic extract of
dried fruit significantly ameliorated 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced skin tumour
promotion as well as ear oedema in mice (4). Treatment of HL-60 cells with the methanolic extract
also significantly reduced cell viability and inhibited DNA synthesis (4). Microscopic examination of
the treated cells showed characteristic morphology of apoptosis. Furthermore, cells treated with the
extract exhibited internucleosomal DNA fragmentation in time and concentration dependent manners.
TPA-stimulated generation of superoxide anion in differentiated HL-60 cells was also blunted by A.
oxyphylla. Taken together, these findings suggest that A. oxyphylla possesses potential
chemopreventive and antitumourigenic activities (4).
16
The antitumour promoting potential of ‘yakuchinone A’ and ‘yakuchinone B’, major pungent
ingredients of A. oxyphylla have also been examined (5). Yakuchinone A or B reduced TPAstimulated production of tumour necrosis factor-alpha in cultured human promyelocytic leukaemia
(HL-60) cells. Both compounds blunted the TPA-induced superoxide generation in differentiated HL60 cells in a concentration related manner and also inhibited lipid peroxidation in rat brain
homogenates. Furthermore, yakuchinone A and yakuchinone B nullified the activation of the activator
protein-1 in immortalised mouse fibroblast cells in culture. These findings indicate that pungent
diarylheptanoids from A. oxyphylla have antitumour promotional properties that can contribute to their
chemopreventive potential (5).
1.Koo B.S., Lee W.C., Chang Y.C. & Kim C.H. (2004) Protective effects of alpinae oxyphyllae fructus (Alpinia
oxyphylla MIQ) water-extracts on neurons from ischemic damage and neuronal cell toxicity. Phytother Res.,
18(2): 142-148.
2.Kubo M., Matsuda H., Suo T., Yamanaka J., Sakanaka M. & Yoshimura M. (1995) Study on Alpiniae Fructus.
I. Pharmacological evidence of efficacy of Alpiniae Fructus on ancient herbal literature. Yakugaku Zasshi.,
115(10): 852-862.
3.Yu X., An L., Wang Y., Zhao H. & Gao C. (2003) Neuroprotective effect of Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. fruits
against glutamate-induced apoptosis in cortical neurons. Toxicol Lett., 144(2): 205-212.
4.Lee E., Park K.K., Lee J.M., Chun K.S., Kang J.Y., Lee S.S. & Surh Y.J. (1998) Suppression of mouse skin
tumor promotion and induction of apoptosis in HL-60 cells by Alpinia oxyphylla Miquel (Zingiberaceae).
Carcinogenesis., 19(8): 1377-1381.
5.Chun K.S., Sohn Y., Kim H.S., Kim O.H., Park K.K., Lee J.M., Moon A., Lee S.S. & Surh Y.J. (1999) Antitumor promoting potential of naturally occurring diarylheptanoids structurally related to curcumin.
Mutat Res., 428(1-2): 49-57.
Alstonia macrophylla - batino or hard alstonia {R9}
The methanolic crude, methanol-aqueous extract and n-butanol part of the crude extract of Alstonia
macrophylla leaves showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (1). In another study
of this species, the methanolic extract of dried leaves and its fractions were investigated for
antiinflammatory activity (2). The extract and its fractions showed significant dose dependent
antiinflammatory activity in carrageenan and dextran-induced rat hind-paw oedema in rats. This
antiinflammatory activity was comparable with that of the standard drug ‘Indomethacin’ (2). Extracts
of the root bark have also shown cytotoxic activity against human cancer cell-lines (3,4).
1.Chattopadhyay D., Maiti K., Kundu A.P., Chakraborty M.S., Bhadra R., Mandal S.C. & Mandal A.B. (2001)
Antimicrobial activity of Alstonia macrophylla: a folklore of bay islands. J Ethnopharmacol., 77(1): 49-55.
2.Arunachalam G., Chattopadhyay D., Chatterjee S., Mandal A.B., Sur T.K. & Mandal S.C. (2002)
Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Alstonia macrophylla Wall ex A. DC. leaf extract. Phytomedicine,
9(7): 632-635.
3.Keawpradub N., Houghton P.J., Eno-Amooquaye E. & Burke P.J. (1997) Activity of extracts and alkaloids of
Thai Alstonia species against human lung cancer cell lines. Planta Med., 63(2): 97-101.
4.Keawpradub N., Eno-Amooquaye E., Burke P.J. & Houghton P.J. (1999) Cytotoxic activity of indole alkaloids
from Alstonia macrophylla. Planta Med., 65(4): 311-315.
Alstonia scholaris (DENG TAI YE) [Myanmar- TAUNG-MA-YOE] devil’s tree, ditta bark tree
or blackboard tree {R12}
Traditional uses of this plant are not particularly relevant to Australia’s current chronic diseases.
However, modern research is demonstrating that the devil’s tree has potential. Echitamine chloride, a
plant alkaloid from Alstonia scholaris, exhibited significant regression in tumour growth in rats with
methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma (1). In more recent work, administration of an alkaloid
fraction of A. scholaris, once daily for nine consecutive days to tumour bearing mice caused a dose
dependent remission of the tumour (2).
The plant extracts of 17 commonly used Indian medicinal plants were examined for their possible
regulatory effect on nitric oxide levels using sodium nitroprusside as an nitric oxide donor in vitro (3).
Most of the extracts demonstrated direct scavenging of nitric oxide and exhibited significant activity
but potency of activity was greatest for A. scholaris (3).
1.Kamarajan P., Sekar N., Mathuram V. & Govindasamy S. (1991) Antitumor effect of echitamine chloride on
methylcholonthrene induced fibrosarcoma in rats. Biochem Int., 25(3): 491-498.
2.Jagetia G.C. & Baliga M.S. (2006) Evaluation of anticancer activity of the alkaloid fraction of Alstonia
scholaris (Sapthaparna) in vitro and in vivo. Phytother Res., 20(2): 103-109.
3.Jagetia G.C. & Baliga M.S. (2004) The evaluation of nitric oxide scavenging activity of certain Indian
medicinal plants in vitro: a preliminary study. J Med Food., 7(3): 343-348.
17
Amomum krervanh (BAI DOU KOU) krawan or Siam / Thai cardamom {R4}
Possible use as an antimalarial (1).
1.Kamchonwongpaisan, S., Nilanonta, C., Tarnchompoo, B., Thebtaranonth, C., Thebtaranonth, Y., Yuthavong,
Y., Kongsaeree, P. & Clardy, J. (1995) An antimalarial peroxide from Amomum krervanh Pierre. Tetrahedron
lett., 36 (11): 1821-1824.
Amomum tsao-ko (CAO GUO) caoguo amomum {R7}
One of the traditional functions of this plant is the arrest of malarial attack (1). Its essential oils have
been identified (2,3), as well as an antifungal agent (4). Possible radical scavenging and antioxidant
activity (5).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Wu Y., Ge F., Shi Q., Tan X. & Wu H. (1997) Study of supercritical-CO2 fluid extraction in extracting
essential oils of Amomun tsao-ko. Zhong Yao Cai., 20(5): 240-241.
3.Lin J., Zheng Y., Xu Y., Xia P., Wu Z., Cheng F. & Song L. (2000) Analysis of essential oil from Amomum
tsaoko by extraction of supercritical CO2 fluid. Zhong Yao Cai., 23(3): 145-148.
4.Moon S.S., Lee J.Y. & Cho S.C. (2004) Isotsaokoin, an antifungal agent from Amomum tsao-ko. J Nat Prod.,
67(5): 889-891.
5.Martin T.S., Kiduzaki H., Hisamoto M. & Nakatani N. (2000) Constituents of Amomum tsao-ko and their
radical scavenging and antioxidant activities. J. Am. Oil Chem. Soc., 77(6): 667-673.
Amomum villosum (SHA REN) villous amomum fruit {R6}
Bornyl acetate, the main ingredient of Amomum villosum displayed analgesic and antiinflammatory
effects in rodents (1,2).
1.Wu X., Xiao F., Zhang Z., Li X. & Xu Z. (2005) Research on the analgesic effect and mechanism of bornyl
acetate in volatile oil from Amomum villosum. Zhong Yao Cai., 28(6): 505-507.
2.Wu X., Li X., Xiao F., Zhang Z., Xu Z. & Wang H. (2004) Studies on the analgesic and anti-inflammatory
effect of bornyl acetate in volatile oil from Amomum villosum. Zhong Yao Cai., 27(6): 438-439.
Ampelopsis brevipedunculata (YIE PU TAO TENG) porcelain berry {R9}
Used as an antiinflammatory and antihepatotoxic agent in folk medicine. The antioxidant activity of
the methanol extract of the root and stem may partially explain this plant’s antiinflammatory and
antihepatotoxic effects (1). Antihepatotoxic effects have been demonstrated in mice (2). This herb is
also said to possess anticancer activity (3). The antimutagenic activities of extracts of 36 commonly
used anticancer crude drugs from Chinese herbs were studied by using the Salmonella/microsomal
system in the presence of picrolonic acid or benzo[a]pyrene to test whether they contain direct or
indirect antimutagens (4). Each crude drug was extracted with boiling water, the method commonly
used by Chinese people to prepare the drug for oral intake. Extracts of porcelain berry showed
moderate antimutagenic activity (4). This species is a weed in some locations (5).
1.Wu M.J., Yen J.H., Wang L. & Weng C.Y. (2004) Antioxidant activity of Porcelainberry (Ampelopsis
brevipedunculata (Maxim.) Trautv.. Am J Chin Med., 32(5): 681-693.
2.Yabe N. & Matsui H. (2000) Ampelopsis brevipedunculata (Vitaceae) extract inhibits a progression of carbon
tetrachloride-induced hepatic injury in the mice. Phytomedicine, 7(6): 493-498.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.Lee H. & Lin J.Y. (1988) Antimutagenic activity of extracts from anticancer drugs in Chinese medicine. Mutat
Res., 204(2): 229-234.
5.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Andrographis paniculata (CHUAN XIN LIAN) [India- KARIYAT] creat, andrographis, king of
bitter(s) {R14}
Erect annual herb to about 80 cm with profuse branching (1). Common throughout the plains of India
(2); probably native to India. Cultivated in gardens but often considered a weed, grows in a variety of
habitats including wastelands and wetlands. Andrographis paniculata is used in traditional Chinese
medicine but was originally imported into China (2) (and Australia).
Although linked to treatments for cancer, human immunodeficiency virus and inflammation, the best
efficacy data for this herb have come from human trials where it was found to alleviate symptoms of
upper-respiratory tract infections (3), and symptoms and signs of common cold (4). A study of patients
with cardiac and cerebral vascular disease also found that it inhibited platelet aggregation induced by
ADP (2). Serotonin released from platelets was decreased but plasma serotonin levels remained
unchanged. Potential for production in Australia (5).
18
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
3.Melchior J., Spasov A.A., Ostrovskij O.V., Bulanov A.E. & Wikman G. (2000) Double-blind, placebocontrolled pilot and phase III study of activity of standardized Andrographis paniculata Herba Nees extract fixed
combination (Kan jang) in the treatment of uncomplicated upper-respiratory tract infection. Phytomedicine, 7(5):
341-350.
4.Caceres D.D., Hancke J.L., Burgos R.A., Sandberg F. & Wikman G.K. (1999) Use of visual analogue scale
measurements (VAS) to asses the effectiveness of standardized Andrographis paniculata extract SHA-10 in
reducing the symptoms of common cold. A randomized double blind-placebo study. Phytomedicine, 6(4): 217223.
5.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Anemarrhena asphodeloides (ZHI MU) anemarrhena {R22}
The rhizomes of Anemarrhena asphodeloides are prescribed as antipyretic, antiinflammatory, diuretic
and hypoglycaemic agents in Chinese traditional medicine. The dried rhizome is traditionally used
with other herbs in the treatment of diabetes (1). Chinese medical texts explain that this herb can lower
blood sugar by increasing the metabolism of glucose in the body and increasing glycogen synthesis in
the liver (2). But more recent research suggests that the hypoglycaemic effect of A. asphodeloides
extract has been accounted for by the substance ‘mangiferin’ which increases insulin sensitivity (3).
Ethanol extract of the roots stimulated insulin secretion in islets of normal Wistar and diabetic GK rats
(3). Based on results from mice, the antidiabetic mechanism of A. asphodeloides may be due to
decreased insulin resistance (4,5).
An aqueous extract of A. asphodeloides demonstrated growth inhibitory activity against cancer cells
in vitro (6). This herb also brought about growth inhibition and induction of apoptotic cell death in
gastric cancer cell-lines (7). Another investigation established that steroidal saponins isolated from A.
asphodeloides might also be used as novel antithrombotic therapeutic agents in post-myocardial
infarction (8). This plant was identified as one of eight Chinese medicinal plants with potential for
production in the USA (9).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Hoa N.K., Phan D.V., Thuan N.D. & Ostenson C.G. (2004) Insulin secretion is stimulated by ethanol extract of
Anemarrhena asphodeloides in isolated islet of healthy Wistar and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats. Exp Clin
Endocrinol Diabetes., 112(9): 520-525.
4.Miura T., Ichiki H., Iwamoto N., Kato M., Kubo M., Sasaki H., Okada M., Ishida T., Seino Y. & Tanigawa K.
(2001) Antidiabetic activity of the rhizoma of Anemarrhena asphodeloides and active components, mangiferin
and its glucoside. Biol Pharm Bull., 24(9): 1009-1011.
5.Miura T., Ichiki H., Hashimoto I., Iwamoto N., Kato M., Kubo M., Ishihara E., Komatsu Y., Okada M., Ishida
T. & Tanigawa K. (2001) Antidiabetic activity of a xanthone compound, mangiferin. Phytomedicine, 8(2): 85-87.
6.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
7.Takeda Y., Togashi H., Matsuo T., Shinzawa H., Takeda Y. & Takahashi T. (2001) Growth inhibition and
apoptosis of gastric cancer cell lines by Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge. J Gastroenterol. , 36(2): 79-90.
8.Zhang J., Meng Z., Zhang M., Ma D., Xu S. & Kodama H. (1999) Effect of six steroidal saponins isolated from
anemarrhenae rhizoma on platelet aggregation and hemolysis in human blood. Clin Chim Acta., 289(1-2): 79-88.
9.Craker L.E. & Giblette J. (2002). Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production, pp. 491-496.
In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.) ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.-ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
19
Anemone chinensis (BAI TOU WENG) Chinese pulsatilla or Chinese anemone {R12}
In China, this plant has been used to treat inflammation of the mucosal lining of the small intestine for
many years. However, little was known about the mechanism underlying its antiinflammatory effects
until recent rat cell work established that anemonin from the root may exert beneficial therapeutic
action in intestinal inflammation by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide, endothelin-1 and soluble
intercellular adhesion molecule-1 thus preventing intestinal microvascular dysfunction (1).
Compounds from the root have also demonstrated cytotoxicity against P-388, Lewis lung carcinoma
(2), human large-cell lung carcinoma (2), and against mouse melanoma cells (3).
1.Duan H., Zhang Y., Xu J., Qiao J., Suo Z., Hu G. & Mu X. (2006) Effect of anemonin on NO, ET-1 and
ICAM-1 production in rat intestinal microvascular endothelial cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 104(3): 362-366.
2.Ye W.C., Ji N.N., Zhao S.X., Liu J.H., Ye T., McKervey M.A. & Stevenson P. (1996) Triterpenoids from
Pulsatilla chinensis. Phytochemistry, 42(3): 799-802.
3.Liu W.K., Ho J.C., Cheung F.W., Liu B.P., Ye W.C. & Che C.T. (2004) Apoptotic activity of betulinic acid
derivatives on murine melanoma B16 cell line. Eur J Pharmacol., 498(1-3): 71-78.
Angelica anomala (BAI ZHI) angelica {R5}
Traditional uses are probably not relevant to Australia’s chronic diseases (1) but Angelica anomala
was considered here because of the general importance of medicinal plants in this genus, and the good
evidence for their bioactivity (2). Work in the 1960s focussed on identification of coumarins in the
root (3,4) but since then little has been reported.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Sarker S.D. & Nahar L. (2004) Natural medicine: the genus Angelica. Curr Med Chem., 11(11): 1479-1500.
3.Hata K., Kozawa M. & Ikeshiro Y. (1967) New coumarins isolated from the roots of Angelica anomala Lall.
and Angelica cartilaginomarginata (Makino) Nakai (Umbelliferae). Yakugaku Zasshi., 87(9): 1118-1124.
4.Hata K., Kozawa M., Yen K.Y. & Kimura Y. (1963) Pharmacognostical studies on umbelliferous plants. XX.
Studies on Chinese drug "bvaku-shi". 5. On the coumarins of the roots of Angelica formosana Boiss. and A.
anomala Lall. Jpn J Pharmacol., 83: 611-614.
Angelica dahurica (BAI ZHI) dahurian angelica or fragrant angelica {R16}
Angelica is one of the most commonly used Chinese traditional herbs for allergies and colds. Research
indicates that active ingredients in this herb inhibit histamine release and inflammation. The
therapeutically important components are coumarins (1). The coumarins ‘pangelin’ and
‘oxypeucedanin hydrate acetonide’ showed potent cytotoxic activity against four kinds of tumour cellline (2). Inhibition of multidrug-resistant and methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus by
extracts from this herb was favourably comparable with some of the newest agents in development for
treatment of this bacterium (3).
1.Chen Y., Fan G., Chen B., Xie Y., Wu H., Wu Y., Yan C. & Wang J. (2006) Separation and quantitative
analysis of coumarin compounds from Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm) Benth. et Hook. f by pressurized
capillary electrochromatography. J Pharm Biomed Anal., 41(1): 105-116.
2.Thanh P.N., Jin W., Song G., Bae K. & Kang S.S. (2004) Cytotoxic coumarins from the root of Angelica
dahurica. Arch Pharm Res., 27(12): 1211-1215.
3.Lechner D., Stavri M., Oluwatuyi M., Pereda-Miranda R. & Gibbons S. (2004) The anti-staphylococcal activity
of Angelica dahurica (Bai Zhi). Phytochemistry., 65(3): 331-335.
Angelica decursiva (QIAN HU) {R10}
The roots contain coumarins (1,2).
1.Hata K. & Sano K. (1969) Studies on coumarins from the root of Angelica decursiva FR et SAV. I. The
structure of decursin and decursidin. Yakugaku Zasshi., 89(4): 549-557.
2.Liu R., Sun Q., Shi Y. & Kong L. (2005) Isolation and purification of coumarin compounds from the root of
Peucedanum decursivum (Miq.) Maxim by high-speed counter-current chromatography. J Chromatogr A.,
1076(1-2): 127-132.
Angelica keiskei [Japanese- ASHITABA] Japanese angelica or tomorrow's leaf {R17}
This plant has a 2,000 year history in China and Japan as a medicinal herb and is believed to slow
aging. A species of the celery family, its stems have a thick yellow juice containing ‘chalcones’.
Chalcones are rarely found anywhere in the natural world. The roots have traditionally been used as a
health food considered to have diuretic, laxative, analeptic and lactagogue effects. Recently, it has
been thought that the roots and stems have preventive effects against coronary heart disease,
hypertension and cancer. Although more human clinical work is required, there is enough existing
evidence to suggest that this plant should be the focus of on-going investigation.
20
Recent research evaluated ‘xanthoangelol’, a major chalcone constituent in Angelica keiskei for cell
toxicity and apoptosis-inducing activity in human neuroblastoma (IMR-32) and leukaemia (Jurkat)
cells (1). Xanthoangelol concentration-dependently reduced the survival rates of both cell-lines, and
may be applicable as an effective drug for treatment of neuroblastoma and leukaemia. In another
study, xanthoangelol D markedly suppressed both basal and tumour necrosis factor-alpha-induced
nuclear factor-kappa B activation in cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells (2). This result suggests
that xanthoangelol D may be useful for treatment of various vascular diseases involved nuclear factor kappaB activation (2).
Two chalcone derivatives from A. keiskei roots also inhibited tumour growth and metastasis in tumourbearing mice through the inhibition of tumour-induced neovascularisation and/or the inhibition of
immune suppression caused by tumours (3).
‘4-hydroxyderricin’, a characteristic chalcone isolated from the yellow stem liquid, suppressed
elevation of systolic blood pressure, reduced serum very low-density lipoprotein levels, and decreased
hepatic triglyceride content in stroke-prone, spontaneously hypertensive rats (4).
In a study which evaluated human smokers, green vegetable drink (A. keiskei based juice) was drunk
every day for eight weeks, and the results supported the hypothesis that this drink exerts a cancerprotective effect via a decrease in oxidative damage to DNA (5).
1.Tabata K., Motani K., Takayanagi N., Nishimura R., Asami S., Kimura Y., Ukiya M., Hasegawa D., Akihisa T.
& Suzuki T. (2005) Xanthoangelol, a major chalcone constituent of Angelica keiskei, induces apoptosis in
neuroblastoma and leukemia cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(8): 1404-1407.
2.Sugii M., Ohkita M., Taniguchi M., Baba K., Kawai Y., Tahara C., Takaoka M. & Matsumura Y. (2005)
Xanthoangelol D isolated from the roots of Angelica keiskei inhibits endothelin-1 production through the
suppression of nuclear factor-kappaB. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(4): 607-610.
3.Kimura Y. (2005) New anticancer agents: in vitro and in vivo evaluation of the antitumor and antimetastatic
actions of various compounds isolated from medicinal plants. In Vivo, 19(1): 37-60.
4.Ogawa H., Ohno M. & Baba K. (2005) Hypotensive and lipid regulatory actions of 4-hydroxyderricin, a
chalcone from Angelica keiskei, in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol.,
32(1-2): 19-23.
5.Kang M.H., Park Y.K., Kim H.Y. & Kim T.S. (2004) Green vegetable drink consumption protects peripheral
lymphocytes DNA damage in Korean smokers. Biofactors, 22(1-4): 245-247.
Angelica pubescens (DU HUO) pubescent angelica {R14}
Coumarins are responsible for this herb’s antiinflammatory and antirheumatic activity (1,2,3,4).
‘Osthole’ is one of the angelica antiinflammatory compounds but it also inhibits platelet aggregation
(5). Other studies have shown that osthole relaxes the thoracic aorta of rats (6) and is a selective
antiproliferative agent in vascular smooth muscle cells (7). In recent work, angelmarin from A.
pubescens exhibited 100% preferential cytotoxicity against PANC-1 cancer cells (8).
1.Pan J.X., Lam Y.K., Arison B., Smith J. & Han G.Q. (1987) Isolation and identification of isoangelol,
anpubesol and other coumarins from Angelica pubescens Maxim. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 22(5): 380-384.
2.Kosuge T., Yokota M., Sugiyama K., Yamamoto T., Mure T. & Yamazawa H. (1985) Studies on bioactive
substances in crude drugs used for arthritic diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. II. Isolation and
identification of an anti-inflammatory and analgesic principle from the root of Angelica pubescens Maxim. Chem
Pharm Bull (Tokyo)., 33(12): 5351-5354.
3.Chen Y.F., Tsai H.Y. & Wu T.S. (1995) Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities from roots of Angelica
pubescens. Planta Med., 61(1): 2-8.
4.Hoult J.R. & Paya, M. (1996) Pharmacological and biochemical actions of simple coumarins: natural products
with therapeutic potential. Gen Pharmacol., 27(4): 713-722.
5.Ko F.N., Wu T.S., Liou M.J., Huang T.F. & Teng C.M. (1989) Inhibition of platelet thromboxane formation
and phosphoinositides breakdown by osthole from Angelica pubescens. Thromb Haemost., 62(3): 996-999.
6.Ko F.N., Wu T.S., Liou M.J., Huang T.F. & Teng C.M. (1992) Vasorelaxation of rat thoracic aorta caused by
osthole isolated from Angelica pubescens. Eur J Pharmacol., 219(1): 29-34.
7.Guh J.H., Yu S.M., Ko F.N., Wu T.S. & Teng C.M. (1996) Antiproliferative effect in rat vascular smooth
muscle cells by osthole, isolated from Angelica pubescens. Eur J Pharmacol., 298(2): 191-197.
8.Awale S., Nakashima E.M., Kalauni S.K., Tezuka Y., Kurashima Y., Lu J., Esumi H. & Kadota S. (2006)
Angelmarin, a novel anti-cancer agent able to eliminate the tolerance of cancer cells to nutrient starvation. Bioorg
Med Chem Lett., 16(3): 581-583.
21
Angelica sinensis (DANG GUI or DONG QUAI) Chinese angelica or female ginseng {R27}
Considered one of the forty most important herbs in industrialised Western countries (1). Angelica
sinensis is certainly one of the most popular Chinese tonic herbs in the West. In Asia, dong quai’s
reputation is perhaps second only to ginseng (1). Extracts from the roots are traditionally used as a
remedy for painful menstruation and menopausal symptoms, and are believed to produce a balancing
effect on oestrogen activity (1). But a double-blind trial with menopausal women found no oestrogenic
activity for this herb (2). A recent review found that evidence for dong quai’s influence in treating
menopausal symptoms was inconclusive (3). However, ‘Climex’ a herbal preparation containing A.
sinensis and Matricaria did reduce hot flushes (4).
This herb is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote blood circulation and is used with
other herbs to treat arthralgia, rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis (5). A. sinensis is often combined with
dan shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) in the treatment of angina, peripheral vascular disorders and stroke (6). A
recent human trial with hundreds of patients studied the therapeutic effect of A. sinensis injection in
treating acute cerebral infarction and found a therapeutic effect (7).
Sodium ferulate (SF) is an active principle from A. sinensis and other plants. It has been used in
traditional Chinese medicine and is approved by State Drugs Administration of China as a drug for
treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (8,9). SF has antithrombotic, platelet
aggregation inhibitory and antioxidant activities in animals and humans (8). For several decades SF has
been widely used in China to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and to prevent
thrombosis. Positive clinical results have been obtained with SF in coronary heart disease,
atherosclerosis, pulmonary heart disease and thrombosis (8). Its safety and efficacy have been
demonstrated in clinical practice with in vitro and in vivo data supporting the view that SF is a useful
drug for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases (8).
A. sinensis is one of the eleven most important cultivated medicinal plants in China (9). Potential for
Australian production has been recognised (10) and limited plantings in Australia have established that
it can be grown (11).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Hirata J.D., Swiersz L.M., Zell B., Small R. & Ettinger B. (1997) Does dong quai have estrogenic effects in
postmenopausal women? A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril., 68: 981-986.
3.Huntley A.L. & Ernst E.A. (2003) Systematic review of herbal medicinal products for the treatment of
menopausal symptoms. Menopause, 10(5): 465-476.
4.Kupfersztain C., Rotem C., Fagot R. & Kaplan B. (2003) The immediate effect of natural plant extract,
Angelica sinensis and Matricaria chamomilla (Climex) for the treatment of hot flushes during menopause. A
preliminary report. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol., 30(4): 203-206.
5.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
6.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
7.Liu Y.M., Zhang J.J. & Jiang J. (2004) Observation on clinical effect of Angelica injection in treating acute
cerebral infarction. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 24(3): 205-208.
8.Wang B.H. & Ou-Yang J.P. (2005) Pharmacological actions of sodium ferulate in cardiovascular system.
Cardiovasc Drug Rev., 23(2): 161-172.
9.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
10.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
11.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - Pers.comm.
Antiaris toxicaria (JIAN SUI FUAN HOU) upas tree {R4}
The alcoholic extract of this herb is said to exert a cardiotonic effect with increased blood pressure and
cardiac output (1). Extracts are used on poison darts (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Bisset N.G. (1979) Arrow poisons in China. Part I. J Ethnopharmacol., 1(4): 325-384.
Antrodia cinnamomea {R22}
A medicinal, edible Basidiomycete fungus that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
food and drug intoxications, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, hypertension, skin itches and cancer. This
22
species has been the subject of considerable recent scientific investigation which has revealed details
of antioxidative, vasorelaxative, antiinflammatory and antiangiogenic effects (1). A. cinnamomea
polysaccharides are active in suppression of angiogenesis (2). Another recent in vitro evaluation
concluded that extract from this fungus is a good anticancer agent, being effective in inducing phase
G(2)M arrest, acting as an antiproliferative, and an antimetastatic agent against bladder cancer cell T24
cells (3).
In additional work, the extract’s ability to induce apoptosis in cultured MCF-7 breast cancer cells was
studied (4). Results showed antiproliferative action and growth inhibition on MCF-7 cells through
apoptosis induction; the authors concluding that it may have anticancer properties valuable for
application in drug products. Ethylacetate extract from the fruiting bodies also decreased cell growth
and induced apoptosis in two human liver cancer cell-lines (5). More support from human (or even
animal) trials would help clarify the apparent medical importance of this species.
1.Lu M.K., Cheng J.J., Lai W.L., Lin Y.R. & Huang N.K. (2006) Adenosine as an active component of Antrodia
cinnamomea that prevents rat PC12 cells from serum deprivation-induced apoptosis through the activation of
adenosine A(2A) receptors. Life Sci., 79(3): 252-258.
2.Cheng J.J., Huang N.K., Chang T.T., Wang D.L. & Lu M.K. (2005) Study for anti-angiogenic activities of
polysaccharides isolated from Antrodia cinnamomea in endothelial cells. Life Sci., 76(26): 3029-3042.
3.Peng C.C., Chen K.C., Peng R.Y., Su C.H. & Hsieh-Li H.M.(2006) Human urinary bladder cancer T24 cells
are susceptible to the Antrodia camphorata extracts. Cancer Lett., Jan 30 [Epub ahead of print].
4.Yang H.L., Chen C.S., Chang W.H., Lu F.J., Lai Y.C., Chen C.C., Hseu T.H., Kuo C.T. & Hseu Y.C.
(2006) Growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by Antrodia camphorata.
Cancer Lett., 231(2): 215-227.
5.Hsu Y.L., Kuo Y.C., Kuo P.L., Ng L.T., Kuo Y.H. & Lin C.C. (2005) Apoptotic effects of extract from
Antrodia camphorata fruiting bodies in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Cancer Lett., 221(1): 77-89.
Apocynum venetum (LUOBUMA) dogbane {R21}
‘Quercetin’ is one of the major flavonoids in Apocynum venetum leaves that are used as a traditional
herbal tea in China and Japan (1). Quercetin is an important phytochemical that has been found to have
a function in suppressing tumours, scavenging free radicals and reducing blood pressure. Recent
results from in vitro isometric contraction studies of the aorta and superior mesenteric artery of rats
provide some support for the Chinese folk use of this leaf extract-decoction as an antihypertensive
therapy (2). In another study, mechanisms underlying the antihypertensive effect of the leaf extract
were investigated by observing its vasodilatory effect in the rat mesenteric vascular bed (which plays
an important role in changing peripheral resistance and thus regulation of blood pressure) (3). Results
suggested that the vasodilation induced by A. venetum is endothelium-dependent and mediated by
endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor, which involves the activation of K+-channels. Higher
concentrations of extract may enhance nitric oxide production/release to cause vasodilation (3).
To help explain the beneficial effects of luobuma tea against atherosclerosis, Japanese researchers used
the in vitro glycation reaction to investigate activity of the leaf extract and its components against the
formation of advanced glycation end-products, which are largely involved in the pathogenesis of
diabetic vascular complications (4). Strong inhibitory activity against the formation of advanced
glycation end-products was shown by the aqueous extract.
In human trials the effect of A. venetum leaf extract on hypertension and hyperlipaemia was studied
(5). The mean blood pressure in 60 cases of the treated group decreased from 171±19 / 98±11 mmHg
to 154 ±22 / 91±10 mmHg after treatment for four weeks, and 148±17 / 89±10 mmHg after eight
weeks (P<0.01). The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in 40 cases of hyperlipaemia increased from
47.5±13 mg% to 63.9±18 mg% (P<0.01). These results were better than those in the control groups
(5).
Isofraxidin and hyperin isolated from the ether solvent fraction of the leaves were effective sedative
components (6). The mode of antidepressant action of A. venetum leaf extract was investigated in rats
using a high-performance liquid chromatography system to examine the effects of short-term and
long-term administration (7). The extract reduced norepinephrine and dopamine concentrations after
eight weeks. In other work, an extract of the leaves markedly shortened the immobility time of male
rats in a forced swimming test, indicating possible antidepressant activity (8). It is speculated that this
effect might be related to hyperoside and isoquercitrin which are major flavonoids in the extract.
23
A water extract of the leaves showed protective effects against chemical-induced liver injury in mice
and again flavonoids appeared to be the protective principles (9). The hepato-protective effects
exhibited by the extract and its constituents suggested that the use of A. venetum leaves as a tea
material was validated (9).
This flowering perennial to 1 m is a member of the family Apocynaceae. Natural habitat includes
swamps, wet locations and maritime sands. Grows in light (sandy) to heavy (clay) soils that are
preferably moist. It can grow in semi-shade or no shade. The bark yields a fibre that is used for making
twine, bags, linen etc. Traditional administration: 3 to 10 g of dried leaf material, decocted in water for
an oral dose or steeped in boiling water (10). Like many medicinal plants, there are toxins in A.
venetum and usage should be confirmed with healthcare practitioners.
1.Ma M., Hong C.L., An S.Q. & Li B. (2003) Seasonal, spatial, and interspecific variation in quercetin in
Apocynum venetum and Poacynum hendersonii, Chinese traditional herbal teas. J Agric Food Chem., 51(8):
2390-2393.
2.Kwan C.Y., Zhang W.B., Nishibe S. & Seo S. (2005) A novel in vitro endothelium-dependent vascular relaxant
effect of Apocynum venetum leaf extract. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol., 32(9): 789-795.
3.Tagawa C., Kagawa T., Nakazawa Y., Onizuka S., Nishibe S. & Kawasaki H. (2004) Studies on
antihypertensive effect of Luobuma (Apocynum venetum L.) leaf extract (3). Yakugaku Zasshi., 124(11): 851856.
4.Yokozawa T. & Nakagawa T. (2004) Inhibitory effects of Luobuma tea and its components against glucosemediated protein damage. Food Chem Toxicol. ,42(6): 975-981.
5.Ma Y.X. & Chen S.Y. (1989) Observations on the anti-aging, antihypertensive and antihyperlipemic effect of
Apocynum venetum leaf extract. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 9(6): 323, 335-337.
6.Chen M. & Liu F.(1991) Sedative chemical constituents of leaves of Apocynum venetum Linn. Zhongguo
Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 16(10): 609-11, 640.
7.Butterweck V., Simbrey K., Seo S., Sasaki T. & Nishibe S. (2003) Long-term effects of an Apocynum venetum
extract on brain monoamine levels and beta-AR density in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 75(3): 557-564.
8.Butterweck V., Nishibe S., Sasaki T. & Uchida M. (2001) Antidepressant effects of Apocynum venetum leaves
in a forced swimming test. Biol Pharm Bull., 24(7): 848-851.
9.Xiong Q., Fan W., Tezuka Y., Adnyana I.K., Stampoulis P., Hattori M., Namba T. & Kadota S. (2000)
Hepatoprotective effect of Apocynum venetum and its active constituents. Planta Med., 66(2): 127-133.
10.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Aquilaria sinensis (CHEN XIANG) Chinese eaglewood, Chinese agarwood or aquilaria {R7}
Traditionally used for ailments including stuffy chest and asthma (1). Most scientific papers have
focussed on the nature of the chemical constituents (eg. 2) rather than efficacy. Very limited recent
work has been reported.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Yang J.S. & Chen Y.W. (1986) Studies on the chemical constituents of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. II.
Isolation and structure of baimuxinol and dehydrobaimuxinol. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 21(7): 516-520.
Aralia chinensis (JIA MU) Chinese angelica tree {R5}
Used traditionally as a warming, pain-killing herb in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (1), and the
root is considered useful in the treatment of diabetes (2). Aralia chinensis is also said to possess
anticancer activity (3). Some 1990s scientific papers describe the chemical constituents.
1.Bown D. (1995) Encyclopaedia of Herbs and their Uses. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley, London.
2.Duke J.A. & Ayensu E.S. (1985) Medicinal Plants of China. Pub.- Reference Publications, Inc.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers.
Aralia elata - Japanese aralia, tara or Japanese angelica tree {R24}
Root bark of Aralia elata is used as a folk medicine for neurasthenia, rheumatism, diabetes, hepatitis
virus and spasm of the stomach in China, Japan and Russia (1). It contains saponin, alkaloid, palmitic
acid, linoleic acid, methyl eicosanoate and hexacosol (2).
Elatosides G, H, and I isolated from the food garnish ‘Taranome’ (the young shoot of A. elata) were
found to exhibit potent hypoglycaemic activity in oral glucose tolerance tests in rats (3). ‘Elatoside E’
isolated from the root cortex also influenced the elevation of plasma glucose level (determined by oral
sugar tolerance tests) in rats (4). When administered to rats with benzo(a)pyrene, A. elata ethanol
extract exerted antioxidant and strong hypocholesterolaemic and hypolipidaemic effects (2). Japanese
aralia extract fed to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats reduced cataract formation (5).
24
‘Aralin’ a novel cytotoxic protein from the shoots of A. elata exhibited potent cytotoxic activity
against various types of human cancer cell-lines - cervical carcinoma cells (HeLa) proved the most
sensitive (6). The cytotoxicity of aralin appears to be brought about primarily through the induction of
apoptosis.
1.Wang Z., Song S., Lu H., Chen G., Xu S., Sagara Y., Kitaoka N., Manabe M. & Kodama H. (2003)
Effect of three triterpenoid compounds isolated from root bark of Aralia elata on stimulus-induced superoxide
generation and tyrosyl phosphorylation and translocation of p47(phox) and p67(phox) to cell membrane in
human neutrophil. Clin Chim Acta., 336(1-2): 65-72.
2.Chung C.K. & Jung M.E. (2003) Ethanol fraction of Aralia elata Seemann enhances antioxidant activity and
lowers serum lipids in rats when administered with benzo(a)pyrene. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(10): 1502-1504.
3.Yoshikawa M., Yoshizumi S., Ueno T., Matsuda H., Murakami T., Yamahara J. & Murakami N. (1995)
Medicinal foodstuffs. I. Hypoglycemic constituents from a garnish foodstuff "taranome," the young shoot of
Aralia elata SEEM.: elatosides G, H, I, J, and K. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 43(11): 1878-1882.
4.Yoshikawa M., Matsuda H., Harada E., Murakami T., Wariishi N., Yamahara J. & Murakami N.
(1994) Elatoside E, a new hypoglycemic principle from the root cortex of Aralia elata Seem.: structure-related
hypoglycemic activity of oleanolic acid glycosides. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 42(6): 1354-1356.
5.Chung Y.S., Choi Y.H., Lee S.J., Choi S.A., Lee J.H., Kim H. & Hong E.K. (2005) Water extract of Aralia
elata prevents cataractogenesis in vitro and in vivo. J Ethnopharmacol., 101(1-3): 49-54.
6.Tomatsu M., Ohnishi-Kameyama M. & Shibamoto N. (2003) Aralin, a new cytotoxic protein from Aralia elata,
inducing apoptosis in human cancer cells. Cancer Lett., 199(1): 19-25.
Arctium lappa (NIU BANG) burdock
Current commercial crop in Australia (1). Traditionally used for hypoglycaemic properties (2) but
trials on mice were not supportive (3). May be hepatoprotective, possibly through antioxidative
activity which decreases the oxidative stress of hepatocytes (4).
1.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
2.Chiej R.(1988) The MacDonald Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, Pub.- MacDonald (Orbis) & Co. Ltd., 447
pp.
3.Swanston-Flatt S.K., Day C., Flatt P.R., Gould B.J. & Bailey C.J. (1989) Glycaemic effects of traditional
European plant treatments for diabetes. Studies in normal and streptozotocin diabetic mice. Diabetes Res., 10(2):
69-73.
4.Lin S.C., Lin C.H., Lin C.C., Lin Y.H., Chen C.F., Chen I.C. & Wang L.Y. (2002) Hepatoprotective effects of
Arctium lappa Linne on liver injuries induced by chronic ethanol consumption and potentiated by carbon
tetrachloride. J Biomed Sci., 9(5): 401-409.
Areca catechu (BING LANG- dried ripe seed, DA FU PI- dried pericarp) areca seeds, areca
peel/pericarp, betel nut palm, areca palm or areca nut {R4}
Methanol extracts of medicinal plants traditionally used in Chinese medicine were screened for
antioxidant activity versus ‘resveratrol’, which has been shown to protect cells from oxidative damage
(1). Extracts of Areca catechu showed higher antioxidant activity than resveratrol in all experiments
with hamster lung fibroblast (V79-4) cells. A. catechu is also sometimes used in treating malaria (2).
Chewing betel nut is closely associated with oral cancer.
1.Lee S.E., Hwang H.J., Ha J.S., Jeong H.S. & Kim J.H. (2003) Screening of medicinal plant extracts for
antioxidant activity. Life Sci., 73(2): 167-179.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Arisaema amurense (NAN XING) {R5}
Traditionally used for its anticancer activity (1) but efficacy is not well described in the literature. The
regulation of monoamine oxidase-B activity is important in the treatment of neurodegenerative
diseases. In a recent investigation, 27 species of plants used in traditional Chinese medicine were
tested for their inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidase-B in rat brain homogenates (2). The 50%
aqueous methanol extracts of four plants including Arisaema amurense, exhibited the best activity and
selectivity towards monoamine oxidase-B. A. amurense may therefore be a candidate for use in
delaying the progressive degeneration caused by neurological diseases (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Lin R.D., Hou W.C., Yen K.Y. & Lee M.H. (2003) Inhibition of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) by Chinese
herbal medicines. Phytomedicine, 10(8): 650-656.
25
Arisaema consanguineum (NAN XING) {R3}
Used for its anticancer activity (1) but efficacy is not well described in the literature. Two lectins
purified from the tubers were mitogenic for human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the [3H]thymidine uptake assay (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Shangary S., Kamboj S.S., Singh J., Kamboj K.K. & Sandhu R.S. (1996) New lymphocyte stimulating monocot
lectins from family Araceae. II. Immunol Invest., 25(4): 273-278.
Arisaema erubescens (NAN XING) {R5}
The dried roots of Arisaema erubescens are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of
ailments; aqueous extracts are reported to exhibit anticancer properties (1). A fraction of the methanol
extract of dried A. erubescens exhibited strong cytotoxic activity against K562 human leukaemia cells.
‘Paeonol’ was isolated from this fraction but authentic paeonol was not cytotoxic to K562 cells,
suggesting that compounds co-eluting with paeonol are responsible for the cytotoxic activity (1).
1.Ducki S., Hadfield J.A., Lawrence N.J., Zhang X.G., McGown A.T. & Zhang X.G. (1995) Isolation of paeonol
from Arisaema erubescens. Planta-Medica, 61: 586-587.
Arisaema heterophyllum (NAN XING) [Japanese- MAIZURU-TENNAN-SHO {R6}
Used for its anticancer activity (1) but no efficacy data could be retrieved from the scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Aristolochia debilis (QING MU XIANG or MA DOU LING) slender Dutchman’s pipe {R6}
Traditionally used as an antihypertensive herb (1,2). Methanol extracts of 170 natural products
including Korean herbal medicines were evaluated for inhibition of prostaglandin E2 production (for
COX-2 inhibitors) and nitric oxide formation (for iNOS inhibitors) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)induced mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells (3). Inhibitors of prostaglandin biosynthesis and nitric
oxide production are considered potential antiinflammatory and cancer chemopreventive agents.
Several extracts, including those from Aristolochia debilis showed potent inhibition of COX-2 activity
and iNOS activity (3). ‘Aristolone’ from this plant is now an established anticancer drug (4).
Using tissue culture methods, the antiviral effect on type 1 herpes simplex was evaluated using
extracts from 472 traditional medicinal herbs (5). Ten herbs were highly effective including A. debilis.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Hong C.H., Hur S.K., Oh O.J., Kim S.S., Nam K.A. & Lee S.K.E. (2002) Valuation of natural products on
inhibition of inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cultured mouse macrophage
cells. J. Ethnopharmacol., 83(1-2): 153-9.
4.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
5.Zheng M. (1990) Experimental study of 472 herbs with antiviral action against the herpes simplex virus. Zhong
Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(1): 39-41.
Aristolochia indica [Myanmar- EIK-THARA-MULI] Indian birthwort {R9}
A traditional treatment for arthritis (1) which has some antibacterial activity (1) and was considered in
the past for antifertility (3). There is better evidence of antiarthritic activity in other species.
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe, T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Ravikumar S., Nazar S., Nuralshiefa A. & Abideen S. (2005) Antibacterial activity of traditional therapeutic
coastal medicinal plants against some pathogens. J Environ Biol. , 26(2 Suppl): 383-386.
3. Kamboj V.P. & Dhawan B.N.(1982) Research on plants for fertility regulation in India. J Ethnopharmacol.,
6(2): 191-226.
Aristolochia manshuriensis (MU TONG) akebia or Manchurian birthwort {R15}
Used in Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis (1). However, this
plant is linked to acute and chronic toxicity (2,3) and there are bans on its use in some localities (1).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Hu S.L., Zhang H.Q., Chan K. & Mei Q.X. (2004) Studies on the toxicity of Aristolochia manshuriensis
(Guanmuton). Toxicology., 198: 195-201.
3.Liu M.C., Maruyama S., Mizuno M., Morita Y., Hanaki S., Yuzawa Y. & Matsuo S. (2003) The nephrotoxicity
of Aristolochia manshuriensis in rats is attributable to its aristolochic acids. Clin Exp Nephrol., 7(3): 186-194.
26
Aristolochia mollissima (XUN GU FENG) woolly Dutchman’s pipe {R4}
For arthralgia with painful joints, alone or with other herbs (1,2). Not the subject of extensive recent
research.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Li G.X. (1985) Studies on the anti-inflammatory action of the essential oil of Aristolochia mollissima. Zhong
Yao Tong Bao., 10(6): 39-41.
Arnebia euchroma (ZI CAO) arnebia or groomwell {R13}
‘Shikonin’ is one of the active components isolated from the root of Arnebia euchrona. It has been
shown to possess significant antibacterial, antiinflammatory and antitumour activities and has been
used clinically (1).
In vitro testing has demonstrated that groomwell extracts have activity against - Hepatitis C virus (2),
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (3) and human immunodeficiency virus (4).
‘Naphthoquinone pigment-LIII’ from A. euchroma, inhibited the proliferation of a stomach cancer
cell-line and an oesophagus cancer cell-line (5). In other work, acetylshikonin, teracrylshikonin, beta,
beta-dimethylacrylshikonin and shikonin, isolated from A. euchroma inhibited collagen induced
aggregation of washed rabbit platelets (6). Root extracts have shown antiinflammatory effects in rats
(7,8)
1.Li H., Luo S. & Zhou T. (1999) Studies on in vitro metabolism of shikonin. Phytother Res., 13(3): 236-238.
2.Ho T.Y., Wu S.L., Lai I.L., Cheng K.S., Kao S.T. & Hsiang C.Y. (2003) An in vitro system combined with an
in-house quantitation assay for screening hepatitis C virus inhibitors. Antiviral Res., 58(3): 199-208.
3.Shen C.C., Syu W.J., Li S.Y., Lin C.H., Lee G.H. & Sun C.M. (2002) Antimicrobial activities of naphthazarins
from Arnebia euchroma. J Nat Prod., 65(12): 1857-1862.
4.Kashiwada Y., Nishizawa M., Yamagishi T., Tanaka T., Nonaka G., Cosentino L.M., Snider J.V. & Lee K.
(1995) Anti-AIDS agents, 18. Sodium and potassium salts of caffeic acid tetramers from Arnebia euchroma as
anti-HIV agents. J Nat Prod., 58(3): 392-400.
5.Lu G. & Liao J. (1990) Detection of the anti-cancer biological effect of naphthoquinone pigment-LIII. Zhong
Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(7):422-425.
6.Ko F.N., Lee Y.S., Kuo S.C., Chang Y.S. & Teng C.M. (1995) Inhibition on platelet activation by shikonin
derivatives isolated from Arnebia euchroma. Biochim Biophys Acta., 1268(3): 329-334.
7.Kaith B.S., Kaith N.S. & Chauhan N.S. (1996) Anti-inflammatory effect of Arnebia euchroma root extracts in
rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 55(1): 77-80.
8.Wang W.J., Bai J.Y., Liu D.P., Xue L.M. & Zhu X.Y. (1994) The antiinflammatory activity of shikonin and its
inhibitory effect on leukotriene B4 biosynthesis. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 29(3): 161-165.
Artemisia argyi (AI YE) argy wormwood or Chinese mugwort {R12}
This plant contains oils that are traditionally used to treat asthma (1), however, recent research focus
has been on anticancer evaluation. In up-to-date work, aqueous extracts of Artemisia argyi
demonstrated antiproliferative activity on cancer cell-lines with results suggesting that further studies
of this potential antineoplastic agent were warranted (2). Other cancer research, suggests that a
compound from A. argyi might be used as a potential drug for the treatment of cervical cancers
associated with the human papillomavirus (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
3.Lee H.G., Yu K.A., Oh W.K., Baeg T.W., Oh H.C., Ahn J.S., Jang W.C., Kim J.W., Lim J.S., Choe Y.K. &
Yoon D.Y. (2005) Inhibitory effect of jaceosidin isolated from Artemisia argyi on the function of E6 and E7
oncoproteins of HPV 16. J. Ethnopharmacol., 98(3): 339-343.
Artemisia capillaris (YIN CHEN) capillary artemisia or yin-chen wormwood {R6}
This herb is used in the treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver (1). Artemisia capillaris is one
component of a medicine that has shown some benefits in treatment of chronic hepatitis B in human
trials (2,3).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zhang B.Z., Ding F. & Tan L.W. (1993) Clinical and experimental study on yi-gan-ning granule in treating
chronic hepatitis B. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 13(10): 580, 597-599.
3.Chen Z. (1990) Clinical study of 96 cases with chronic hepatitis B treated with jiedu yanggan gao by a doubleblind method. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(2): 67, 71-74.
27
Asarum heterotropoides var. mandshuricum (XI XIN) asarum or Manchurian wild ginger {R6}
Used with other herbs for rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis (1,2) but has not been the subject of recent
investigations of efficacy.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Qu S.Y. & Wu Y.J. (1982) The anti-inflammatory effect of "XI XIN" [Asarum heterotropoides F. Schm. var.
mandshuricum (Maxim) Kitag.] Yao Xue Xue Bao., 17(1): 12-16.
Asarum sieboldii (XI XIN) asarum or Manchurian wild ginger {R8}
Asarum sieboldii is used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine with other herbs for rheumatoid
arthritis (1,2). Results from animal trials suggest that the methanol extract of this species exerts
antinociceptive and antiinflammatory effects by activating opioid receptors, and by inhibiting
bradykinin and histamine-mediated actions (2). More support from additional investigation is required.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Kim S.J., Gao Zhang C. & Taek Lim J. (2003) Mechanism of anti-nociceptive effects of Asarum sieboldii Miq.
radix: potential role of bradykinin, histamine and opioid receptor-mediated pathways. J Ethnopharmacol., 88(1):
5-9.
Asparagus cochinchinensis (TIAN DONG) Chinese asparagus {R7}
This herb is said to possess anticancer activity (1). The human hepatoma cell-line (Hep G2 cells) is
used in a reliable system for examining alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity. An investigation of an
aqueous extract of Asparagus cochinchinensis roots (ACAE) on ethanol-induced cytotoxicity in Hep
G2 cells found that ACAE dose-dependently inhibited ethanol-induced tumour necrosis factor-alpha
(TNF-alpha) secretion (2). ACAE also inhibited the ethanol and TNF-alpha-induced cytotoxicity.
Furthermore, it was found that ACAE inhibited TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis of Hep G2 cells. These
results suggest that ACAE may prevent ethanol-induced cytotoxicity through inhibition of Hep G2 cell
apoptosis (2). Another study established that an aqueous extract of A. cochinchinensis inhibited
secretion of tumour necrosis factor-alpha from primary cultures of mouse astrocytes (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Koo H.N., Jeong H.J., Choi J.Y., Choi S.D., Choi T.J., Cheon Y.S., Kim K.S., Kang B.K., Park S.T., Chang
C.H., Kim C.H., Lee Y.M., Kim H.M., An N.H. & Kim J.J. (2000) Inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alphainduced apoptosis by Asparagus cochinchinensis in Hep G2 cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 73(1-2): 137-143.
3.Kim H., Lee E., Lim T., Jung J. & Lyu, Y. (1998) Inhibitory effect of Asparagus cochinchinensis on tumor
necrosis factor-alpha secretion from astrocytes. Int J Immunopharmacol., 20(4-5): 153-162.
Astragalus complanatus (SHA YUAN ZI) flat-stem milk-vetch {R6}
The total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus displayed obvious hypotensive effects in rats,
mainly by decreasing total peripheral resistance (1,2).
1.Xue B., Li J.X. & Chen L.B. (2002) Depressive effect of total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus R.
Br and its influence upon hemodynamics in SHR. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 27(11): 855-858.
2.Li J.X., Xue B., Chai Q., Liu Z.X., Zhao A.P. & Chen L.B. (2005) Antihypertensive effect of total flavonoid
fraction of Astragalus complanatus in hypertensive rats. Chin J. Physiol., 48(2): 101-106.
Astragalus membranaceus (HUANG QI) astragalus or membranous milk-vetch
In 1998, this herb was identified as having potential for Australia (1). Since then, trial plantings have
been established and evaluated in Tasmania (2). Astragalus membranaceus is a commonly cultivated
herb in China. This plant was also identified as one of eight Chinese medicinal plants that had
potential for production in the USA (3). Many studies have examined the effects of this herb on
cardiovascular disease and cancer. Human clinical trials have demonstrated benefits.
1.Purbrick P. (1998) Medicinal herbs, pp. 369-376. In, Hyde, K.W. (Ed.) ‘The New Rural Industries- a Handbook
for Farmers and Investors’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra, 570 pp.
2.Laurence R. (2006) Medicinal herbs - A preliminary evaluation of Astragalus, Bilberry, Feverfew and Stevia.
Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation publication no. 05/185, 46 pp.
3.Craker L.E. & Giblette J. (2002) Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production, pp. 491-496.
In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
Astragalus mongholicus (HUANG QI) {R7}
Huang Qi or Astragalus herbal products are typically composed of Astragalus membranaceus root
components, but often Astragalus mongholicus is used in conjunction, sometimes being incorrectly
recognised as a subspecies or variety of A. membranaceus. A. mongholicus has been investigated for in
vitro antioxidant activity of its chemical constituents (1). However, A. membranaceus is the more
28
thoroughly investigated species and possibly has better potential for Australian commercial
production.
1.Yu D.H., Bao Y.M., Wei C.L. & An L.J. (2005) Studies of chemical constituents and their antioxidant activities
from Astragalus mongholicus Bunge. Biomed Environ Sci., 18(5): 297-301.
Atractylodes japonica {R8}
Atractylodes japonica has traditionally been used for the treatment of pain and arthritis. The effect of
A. japonica against induced inflammation was investigated using reverse transcription-polymerase
chain reaction, nitric oxide detection, and prostaglandin E2 immunoassay in mouse RAW 264.7
macrophages (1). The aqueous extract suppressed nitric oxide production and prostaglandin E2
synthesis with results suggesting that A. japonica exerts antiinflammatory and analgesic effects
probably in part by suppression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (1).
An oriental herbal combination (BDX-1) was prepared from Achyranthes bidentata and A. japonica
and in clinical tests was found to be effective in rheumatoid arthritis patients (2). In mouse models, the
oral administration of BDX-1 was found to markedly inhibit collagen-induced arthritis, adjuvantinduced arthritis, and zymosan-induced inflammation. It also inhibited carrageenan-induced acute
oedema and acetic acid-induced writhing response (2).
1.Jang M.H., Shin M.C., Kim Y.J., Kim C.J., Kim Y. & Kim E.H. (2004) Atractylodes japonica suppresses
lipopolysaccharide-stimulated expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 in RAW
264.7 macrophages. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(3): 324-327.
2.Han S.B., Lee C.W., Yoon Y.D., Lee J.H., Kang J.S., Lee K.H., Yoon W.K., Lee K., Park S.K. & Kim H.M.
(2005) Prevention of arthritic inflammation using an oriental herbal combination BDX-1 isolated from
Achyranthes bidentata and Atractylodes japonica. Arch Pharm Res., 28(8): 902-908.
Atractylodes lancea (CANG ZHU) southern tsangshu {R14}
Traditionally used with other herbs for rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis (1) and for topical
inflammations (2). Beta-eudesmol, a sesquiterpenoid alcohol isolated from Atractylodes lancea
rhizome, was investigated for antiangiogenesis effects in vitro and in vivo (mice) (3). It was concluded
that beta-eudesmol may aid the development of drugs to treat angiogenic diseases (3). Abnormal
angiogenesis is implicated in various diseases including cancer and diabetic retinopathy. Other
research found that in rabbits this herb can lower blood sugar to 40% of the original level after
subcutaneous injection of the water extract at a dose of 6 g/kg (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Prieto J.M., Recio M.C., Giner R.M., Manez S., Giner-Larza E.M. & Rios J.L. (2003) Influence of traditional
Chinese anti-inflammatory medicinal plants on leukocyte and platelet functions. J. Pharm Pharmacol., 55(9):
1275-1282.
3.Tsuneki H., Ma E.L., Kobayashi S., Sekizaki N., Maekawa K., Sasaoka T., Wang M.W. & Kimura I. (2005)
Antiangiogenic activity of beta-eudesmol in vitro and in vivo. Eur J Pharmacol., 512(2-3): 105-115.
4.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Atractylodes macrocephala (BAI ZHU) atractylodes rhizome or white atractylodes {R10}
‘AMP-B’, a complex polysaccharide from Atractylodes macrocephala showed significant
hypoglycaemic effect on alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic rats (1). A recent trial of sixty-four
cachectic cancer patients suggested that ‘lactone I’ from A. macrocephala could be beneficial for
treating cachexia (2).
1.Shan J.J. & Tian G.Y. (2003) Studies on physico-chemical properties and hypoglycemic activity of complex
polysaccharide AMP-B from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 38(6): 438-441.
2.Liu Y., Ye F., Qiu G.Q., Zhang M., Wang R., He Q.Y. & Cai Y. (2005) Effects of lactone I from Atractylodes
macrocephala Koidz on cytokines and proteolysis-inducing factors in cachectic cancer patients. Di Yi Jun Yi Da
Xue Xue Bao., 25(10): 1308-1311.
29
Azadirachta indica [Myanmar- TA-MAR] neem or Indian lilac {R13}
Cultivated and naturalised in tropical Asia, exact native range obscure (1). Used traditionally for
asthma and tumours (2) but only this later use has received recent investigative attention. The antimutagenic activity against Trp-P-1 of methanolic extracts of 118 samples (108 species) of edible Thai
plants was examined by the Ames Test (3). Five plants, including Azadirachta indica, exhibited
significant antimutagenic activity (3). Subsequent to this finding, the cancer chemopreventive potential
of neem compounds has been demonstrated in several in vitro and animal models (eg. 4,5).
Potential for production in Australia has been recognised (6).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe, T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
3.Nakahara K., Trakoontivakorn G., Alzoreky N.S., Ono H., Onishi-Kameyama M. & Yoshida M. (2002)
Antimutagenicity of some edible Thai plants, and a bioactive carbazole alkaloid, mahanine, isolated from
Micromelum minutum. J Agric Food Chem., 50(17): 4796-4802.
4.Subapriya R., Bhuvaneswari V., Ramesh V. & Nagini S. (2005) Ethanolic leaf extract of neem (Azadirachta
indica) inhibits buccal pouch carcinogenesis in hamsters. Cell Biochem Funct., 23(4): 229-238.
5.Dasgupta T., Banerjee S., Yadava P.K. & Rao A.R. (2004) Chemopreventive potential of Azadirachta indica
(Neem) leaf extract in murine carcinogenesis model systems. J Ethnopharmacol., 92(1): 23-36.
6.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
Bacopa monnieri [India- BRAHMI] bacopa or moneywort {R21}
A hairless perennial creeper which was identified in 1998 as having potential for Australia (1) and is
now a commercial crop (2). Bacopa’s distribution range is pantropic and it is indigenous to Australia
(3,4). It is typically found on wet, swampy ground in coastal areas of Queensland and New South
Wales to south of Sydney. In the USA, this succulent is regarded as a noxious weed (3). Medicinally
used as brain tonic for improving memory, concentration and learning; for nervous deficit due to
injury and stroke; nervous breakdown, nervous exhaustion; and may be of value in epilepsy and
insanity (4). It is a component of at least one commercial product (eg. ‘Megamemory 3000’) that is
readily available in Australia.
Bacopa extracts have been extensively investigated in several laboratories for their
neuropharmacological effects and a number of reports are available confirming their nootropic action
(5). An Australian study examined the effects of B. monnieri on human memory in a double-blind
randomised, placebo controlled study of 76 adults aged between 40 and 65 years (6). The results
showed a significant effect of bacopa on a test for the retention of new information. Follow-up tests
showed that rate of learning was unaffected, suggesting that bacopa decreases the rate of forgetting of
newly acquired information. Tasks assessing attention, verbal and visual short-term memory and the
retrieval of pre-experimental knowledge were unaffected. Questionnaire measures of everyday
memory function and anxiety levels were also unaffected (6). In more Australian work, bacopa
extracts were examined for chronic effects on cognitive function in healthy human subjects (7). The
study was a double-blind placebo-controlled independent-group design in which subjects were
randomly allocated to one of two treatment conditions, B. monnieri (300 mg) or placebo. It was found
that B. monnieri significantly improved speed of visual information processing, learning rate and
memory consolidation, and state anxiety compared to placebo, with maximal effects evident after 12
weeks (7). It was concluded that this herb may improve higher order cognitive processes (learning and
memory) that are critically dependent on the input of environmental information.
1.Purbrick P. (1998) Medicinal herbs, pp. 369-376. In, Hyde K.W. (Ed.) ‘The New Rural Industries- a
Handbook for Farmers and Investors’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra,
570 pp.
2.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
3.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
4.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
5.Russo A. & Borrelli F. (2005) Bacopa monniera, a reputed nootropic plant: an overview. Phytomedicine, 12(4):
305-317.
6.Roodenrys S., Booth D., Bulzomi S., Phipps A., Micallef C. & Smoker J. (2002) Chronic effects of Brahmi
(Bacopa monnieri) on human memory. Neuropsychopharmacology., 27(2): 279-281.
30
7.Stough C., Lloyd J., Clarke J., Downey L.A., Hutchison C.W., Rodgers T. & Nathan P.J. The chronic effects of
an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology
(Berl)., 156(4): 481-484.
Barleria prionitis [Myanmar- LEIK-SA-YWE] barleria {R5}
Widely distributed over Africa and tropical Asia and naturalised elsewhere; a weed in some localities
and a medicinal plant in Myanmar. A fraction from the methanol-water extract of Barleria prionitis
was evaluated for antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activities against different acute and chronic
animal test models (1). It exhibited significant antiinflammatory activity against different
inflammagens like carrageenan, histamine and dextran. Significant antiarthritic activity was observed
in an adjuvant-induced polyarthritis test in rats (1).
1.Singh B., Bani S., Gupta D.K., Chandan B.K. & Kaul A. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of 'TAF' an active
fraction from the plant Barleria prionitis Linn. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(2-3): 187-193.
Boehmeria nivea (ZHU MA GEN) ramie root {R3}
Water extracts of Boehmeria nivea var. nivea exhibited a hepatoprotective activity against CCl4
induced liver injury, and also showed antioxidant effects in FeCl2-ascorbate induced lipid peroxidation
in rat liver homogenate (1). The liver protective and antioxidative effects of this species possibly
involve mechanisms related to free radical scavenging effects.
1.Lin C.C., Yen M.H., Lo T.S. & Lin J.M. (1998) Evaluation of the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of
Boehmeria nivea var. nivea and B. nivea var. tenacissima. J. Ethnopharmacol., 60(1): 9-17.
Benincasa hispida (DONG GUA PI) winter melon or wax gourd {R6}
Current commercial crop in Australia. Benincasa hispida has been used in traditional Chinese
medicine to treat hypertension and inflammation. The antioxidation and angiotensin-converting
enzyme activity inhibition found in trials may provide protective effects against cardiovascular
diseases and cancers (1).
1.Huang H.Y., Huang J.J., Tso T.K., Tsai Y.C. & Chang C.K. (2004) Antioxidant and angiotension-converting
enzyme inhibition capacities of various parts of Benincasa hispida (wax gourd). Nahrung., 48(3): 230-233.
Bletilla striata (BAI JI) bletilla, Chinese ground orchid or shiran {R11}
This species is rare or endangered (1). A traditional Chinese medicine against liver tumour. Human
trials have shown success as a vascular embolising agent in interventional treatment of primary hepatic
carcinoma (2,3).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Zheng C., Feng G. & Liang H. (1998) Bletilla striata as a vascular embolizing agent in interventional treatment
of primary hepatic carcinoma. Chin Med J (Engl)., 111(12): 1060-1063.
3.Zheng C., Feng G. & Zhou R. (1996) New use of Bletilla striata as embolizing agent in the intervention
treatment of hepatic carcinoma. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi., 18(4): 305-307.
Boswellia sacra (RU XIANG) frankincense, olibanum-tree, magher or mogar {R15}
The dried gum resin of this plant has been used in traditional Chinese (and Indian) medicine for
thousands of years to alleviate pain and inflammation, especially for inflammatory arthritis (1,2,3). A
recent random, blinded study on rats showed that frankincense extract had significant antiarthritic and
antiinflammatory effects (1). A purified mixture of boswellic acids from this plant resin exhibited
carrier-dependent immunomodulatory properties in vitro (3). Boswellic acid acetate, a compound
isolated from this herb, can induce differentiation and apoptosis of leukaemia cells (4). Conclusiongood evidence for antiarthritic effects from animal trials; rigorous human validation trials are required
but the legacy of use cannot be ignored.
1.Fan A.Y., Lao L., Zhang R.X., Zhou A.N., Wang L.B., Moudgil K.D., Lee D.Y., Ma Z.Z., Zhang W.Y. &
Berman B.M. (2005) Effects of an acetone extract of Boswellia carterii Birdw. (Burseraceae) gum resin on
adjuvant-induced arthritis in lewis rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 101(1-3): 104-109.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Chevrier M.R., Ryan A.E., Lee D.Y., Zhongze M., Wu-Yan Z. & Via C.S. (2005) Boswellia carterii extract
inhibits TH1 cytokines and promotes TH2 cytokines in vitro. Clin Diagn Lab Immunol., 12(5): 575-580.
4.Jing Y., Nakajo S., Xia L., Nakaya K., Fang Q., Waxman S. & Han R. (1999) Boswellic acid acetate induces
differentiation and apoptosis in leukemia cell lines. Leuk Res., 23(1): 43-50.
31
Boswellia serrata [India- KUNDUR LUBAN or SALAI] boswellia, Indian frankincense or Indian
olibanum-tree {R19}
A large tree native to India and a traditional remedy in Ayurvedic medicine for treatment of
inflammatory diseases. Boswellia serrata is possibly one of the forty most important herbs in
industrialised Western countries (1). The primary active component of the gum resin (guggulu) is
‘boswellic acid’ which has demonstrated antiarthritic effects in a variety of animal models (1,2).
Authors of a recent paper claimed that B. serrata is a ‘proven’ antiinflammatory in clinical trials (3).
A randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study was conducted to assess the efficacy,
safety and tolerability of B. serrata extract in 30 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (4). All
patients receiving guggulu treatment reported decrease in knee pain, increased knee flexion and
increased walking distance; frequency of swelling in the knee joint was also decreased. Observed
differences between drug treated and placebo were statistically significant (4). B. serrata extract was
also recommended for possible therapeutic use in other arthritis types. However, another double-blind
pilot study of human patients with arthritis showed no measurable efficacy (5).
There is evidence from double-blind, placebo-controlled research on human patients that
administration of this plant may be beneficial in treating bronchial asthma (6). By reducing
inflammation, this is possibly one of very few species that can help treat this disease (7). Recognised
as a potential new crop for Australia (8).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Singh G.B. & Atal C.K. (1986) Pharmacology of an extract of salai guggal ex-Boswellia serrata, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent. Agents Actions., 18: 407-412.
3.Roy S., Khanna S., Shah H., Rink C., Phillips C., Preuss H., Subbaraju G.V., Trimurtulu G., Krishnaraju A.V.,
Bagchi M., Bagchi D. & Sen C.K. (2005) Human genome screen to identify the genetic basis of the antiinflammatory effects of Boswellia in microvascular endothelial cells. DNA Cell Biol., 24(4): 244-255.
4.Kimmatkar N., Thawani V., Hingorani L. & Khiyani R. (2003) Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata
extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee - a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial. Phytomedicine,
10(1): 3-7.
5.Sander O., Herborn G. & Rau R. (1998) Is H15 (resin extract of Boswellia serrata, "incense") a useful
supplement to established drug therapy of chronic polyarthritis? Results of a double-blind pilot study. Z
Rheumatol., 57(1): 11-16.
6.Gupta I., Gupta V., Parihar A., Gupta S., Ludtke R., Safayhi H. & Ammon H.P. (1998) Effects of Boswellia
serrata gum resin in patients with bronchial asthma: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-week clinical
study. Eur J Med Res., 3(11): 511-514.
7.Miller A.L. (2001) The etiologies, pathophysiology, and alternative/complementary treatment of asthma. Altern
Med Rev., 6(1): 20-47.
8.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Brucea javanica (YA DAN ZI) [Malaysia- LADA PAHIT] Java brucea or Macassar kernel tree
{19}
Used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating cancer (1,2). A shrub or small tree to 10 m, found in
India through to southern China, and down into northern Australia (1). It grows well under humid and
seasonal weather conditions to an altitude of 900 m. The fruit contains several quassinoids, one of
these compounds, ‘bruceantin’, is known to have strong antiamoebic and antimalarial properties (1).
Animal and cell-line testing has shown that bruceantin is possibly a potent anticancer agent (3).
Emulsion from B. javanica fruit inhibited growth activity of cultured human carcinoma cells (4), and
bruceoside C showed potent cytotoxicities against KB, A-549, RPMI, and TE-671 tumour cells (5).
Apoptosis inducing activity has been reported in more recent in vitro work (6,7).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Sakaki T., Yoshimura S., Tsuyuki T., Takahashi T. & Honda T. (1986) Yadanzioside P, a new antileukemic
quassinoid glycoside from Brucea javanica (L.) Merr with the 3-O-(beta-D-glucopyranosyl) bruceantin structure.
Chemical & Pharmaceutical Bulletin., 34: 4447-4450.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.Xuan Y.B., Yasuda S., Shimada K., Nagai S. & Ishihama H. (1994) Growth inhibition of the emulsion from to
Brucea javanica cultured human carcinoma cells. Gan To Kagaku Ryoho., 21(14): 2421-2425.
5.Fukamiya N., Okano M., Miyamoto M., Tagahara K. & Lee K.H. (1992) Antitumor agents, 127. Bruceoside C,
a new cytotoxic quassinoid glucoside, and related compounds from Brucea javanica. J Nat Prod., 55(4): 468475.
32
6.Lau F.Y., Chui C.H., Gambari R., Kok S.H., Kan K.L., Cheng G.Y., Wong R.S., Teo I.T., Cheng C.H., Wan
T.S., Chan A.S. & Tang J.C. (2005) Antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activity of Brucea javanica extract
on human carcinoma cells. Int J Mol Med., 16(6): 1157-1162.
7.Wang F., Cao Y., Liu H.Y., Fu Z.D. & Han R. (2003) Experimental studies on the apoptosis of HL-60 cells
induced by Brucea javanica oil emulsion. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(8): 759-762.
Buddleja officinalis (MI MENG HUA) buddleia {R4}
A common weed in Europe where it was introduced from China by 19th century plant hunters (1).
Traditionally used as an antispasmodic, mild diuretic, stimulant for urine flow, and to treat eye
inflammation (1). At least eight flavonoid compounds have been isolated from the flowers (2). In one
study, the flavonoid ‘luteolin’ and a phenylpropanoid glycoside ‘acteoside’, isolated from buddleia
flowers exhibited potent antioxidative activity (3).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Li J.S., Zhao Y.Y., Wang B., Li X.L. & Ma L.B. (1996) Separation and identification of the flavonoids from
Buddleia officinalis Maxim. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 31(11): 849-854.
3.Piao M.S., Kim M.R., Lee D.G., Park Y., Hahm K.S., Moon Y.H. & Woo E.R. (2003) Antioxidative
constituents from Buddleia officinalis. Arch Pharm Res., 26(6): 453-457.
Bupleurum chinense (CHAI HU) bupleurum, Chinese thoroughwax or hare's ear {R7}
‘Saikosaponins’ appear to account for much of the medicinal activity of this plant. Test-tube studies
have found that saikosaponins can inhibit growth of liver cancer cells (1) and are antiinflammatory (2).
Research focus has tended to be on liver disease. Potential for Australian production has been
recognised (3).
1.Motoo Y. & Sawabu N. (1994) Antitumor effects of saikosaponins, baicalin and baicalein on human hepatoma
cell lines. Cancer Lett., 86: 91-95.
2.Yamamoto M., Kumagai A. & Yamamura Y. (1975) Structure and actions of saikosaponins isolated from
Bupleurum falcatum L. I. Anti-inflammatory action of saikosaponins. Arzneim Forsch., 25: 1021-1023.
3.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Bupleurum scorzonerifolium (CHAI HU) bupleurum {R6}
A traditional Chinese herb which has been widely used to treat liver diseases such as hepatitis and
cirrhosis. ‘Saikosaponins’ appear to account for much of this plant’s medicinal activity. Test-tube
studies have found that saikosaponins can inhibit growth of liver cancer cells (1) and are
antiinflammatory (2). A crude acetone extract of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium showed in vitro
antiproliferation activity and apoptosis effects against A549 human lung cancer cells (3). More recent
work has demonstrated antiproliferation activity in A549 human cancer cells in vivo (4). An in vivo
study showed that extract from this plant could suppress growth in A549 subcutaneous xenograft
tumours (4).
1.Motoo Y. & Sawabu N. (1994) Antitumor effects of saikosaponins, baicalin and baicalein on human hepatoma
cell lines. Cancer Lett., 86: 91-95.
2.Yamamoto M., Kumagai A. & Yamamura Y. (1975) Structure and actions of saikosaponins isolated from
Bupleurum falcatum L. I. Anti-inflammatory action of saikosaponins. Arzneim Forsch, 25: 1021-1023.
3.Cheng Y.L., Chang W.L., Lee S.C., Liu Y.G., Lin H.C., Chen C.J., Yen C.Y., Yu D.S., Lin S.Z. & Harn H.J.
(2003) Acetone extract of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium inhibits proliferation of A549 human lung cancer cells via
inducing apoptosis and suppressing telomerase activity. Life Sci., 73(18): 2383-2394.
4.Cheng Y.L., Lee S.C., Lin S.Z., Chang W.L., Chen Y.L., Tsai N.M., Liu Y.C., Tzao C., Yu D.S. & Harn H.J.
(2005) Anti-proliferative activity of Bupleurum scrozonerifolium in A549 human lung cancer cells in vitro and in
vivo. Cancer Lett., 222(2): 183-193.
Caesalpinia sappan (SU MU) sappan wood or Indian redwood {R24}
Traditionally used to invigorate blood circulation (1) and modern research supports this use with
evidence that ‘brazilin’, a major component, can induce in vitro vasorelaxation (2). Brazilin may also
have the capacity to decrease blood glucose in diabetic animals (3).
Inhibitors of nitric oxide production are considered potential antiinflammatory and cancer
chemopreventive agents. Extracts of sappan wood are inhibitors of nitric oxide activity (4). The
suppressive effect of nitric oxide synthase gene expression by brazilin may be the mechanism for
antiinflammatory and cancer chemoprotective activity (5). Chloroform extracts decreased the viability
of head and neck cancer cell-lines (6). Antioxidant activity of the heartwood has been confirmed in
33
both in vitro and in vivo animal models (7). Chloroform, n-butanol, methanol, and aqueous extracts
have shown antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (8).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Hu C.M., Kang J.J., Lee C.C., Li C.H., Liao J.W. & Cheng Y.W. (2003) Induction of vasorelaxation through
activation of nitric oxide synthase in endothelial cells by brazilin. Eur J Pharmacol., 468(1): 37-45.
3.You E.J., Khil L.Y., Kwak W.J., Won H.S., Chae S.H., Lee B.H. & Moon C.K. (2005) Effects of brazilin on
the production of fructose-2,6-bisphosphate in rat hepatocytes. J. Ethnopharmacol., 102(1): 53-57.
4.Hong C.H., Hur S.K., Oh O.J., Kim S.S., Nam K.A. & Lee S.K. (2002) Evaluation of natural products on
inhibition of inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cultured mouse macrophage
cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 83(1-2): 153-159.
5.Bae I.K., Min H.Y., Han A.R., Seo E.K. & Lee S.K. (2005) Suppression of lipopolysaccharide-induced
expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase by brazilin in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Eur J. Pharmacol.,
513(3): 237-242.
6.Kim E.C., Hwang Y.S., Lee H.J., Lee S.K., Park M.H., Jeon B.H., Jeon C.D., Lee S.K., Yu H.H. & You Y.O.
(2005) Caesalpinia sappan induces cell death by increasing the expression of p53 and p21WAF1/CIP1 in head
and neck cancer cells. Am J Chin Med., 33(3): 405-414.
7.Badami S., Moorkoth S., Rai S.R., Kannan E. & Bhojraj S. (2003) Antioxidant activity of Caesalpinia sappan
heartwood. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(11): 1534-1537.
8.Kim K.J., Yu H.H., Jeong S.I., Cha J.D., Kim S.M. & You Y.O. (2004) Inhibitory effects of Caesalpinia
sappan on growth and invasion of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Ethnopharmacol., 91(1): 81-87.
Callerya cinerea (JI XUE TENG) millettia vine {R2}
Traditionally used to promote blood circulation, reduce pain in the waist and knees, reduce numbness
in the extremities, and reduce arthralgia due to wind dampness (1). Very little published information is
available from which to draw conclusions on efficacy.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Callerya reticulata (JI XUE TENG) millettia vine {R2}
Traditionally used to promote blood circulation, reduce pain in the waist and knees, reduce numbness
in the extremities, and reduce arthralgia due to wind dampness (1). Like many medicinal plants,
millettia vine contains flavonoids (2). Limited research.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Chen Y.P., Chen C.C. & Hsu H.Y. (1986) Pharmacological activities of the flavonoids of Bauhinia championii
and Millettia reticulata. Prog Clin Biol Res., 213: 297-300.
Calophyllum inophyllum [Malaysia- BINTANGOR LAUT, Myanmar- PUNNA or KAMANI]
Alexandrian laurel or dillo oil tree {R14}
Natural range extends through Africa, Asia and into northern Australia (1). This evergreen tree to 35 m
can withstand saline water. The Malays use the seed oil to treat rheumatism and in India and Java, the
oil or the pounded seed is applied to relieve itch, rheumatism and eruptions of the skin.
The active chemical constituents isolated from the leaves and seeds are ‘inophyllum B and P’, which
are potent non-nucleoside inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (2,3,4). Cell cultures of
this plant have been use to yield inophyllum (5).
Based on in vitro and animal trials, some of the 4-phenylcoumarins isolated from Calophyllum
inophyllum may be potent cancer chemopreventive agents (6). Essential oil extracted from the flowers
contains 25 compounds, with naphthalene derivatives being the most prominent. They have
antibacterial, antiinflammatory, and phagocytosis stimulant activities (2).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
3.De Clercq, E. (2000) Current lead natural products for the chemotherapy of human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) infection. Med Res Rev., 20(5): 323-349.
4.Patil A.D., Freyer A.J., Eggleston D.S., Haltiwanger R.C., Bean M.F., Taylor P.B., Caranfa M.J., Breen A.L.,
Bartus H.R., Johnson R.K., et al. (1993) The inophyllums, novel inhibitors of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase
isolated from the Malaysian tree, Calophyllum inophyllum Linn. J Med Chem., 36(26): 4131-4138.
5.Luo H.L., Guo Y., Cui T.B., Dai J.G., Zhang J.S. & Xu B.Q. (2004) Effects of fungal elicitor on inophyllums
production in suspension cultured cells of Calophyllum inophyllum L. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 39(4): 305-308.
6.Itoigawa M., Ito C., Tan H.T., Kuchide M., Tokuda H., Nishino H. & Furukawa H. (2001) Cancer
chemopreventive agents, 4-phenylcoumarins from Calophyllum inophyllum. Cancer Lett., 169(1): 15-19.
34
Calotropis gigantea [Myanmar- MAYOE-GYI] madar, bowstring hemp or giant milkweed {R4}
Used in Myanmar medicine for treatment of arthritis and abdominal tumours (1) but has not been the
subject of recent scientific evaluation for these ailments.
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
Calotropis procera [India- AKADA] apple of Sodom, Sodom apple or madar
A naturalised weed species in Australia that has several claimed medicinal qualities. Anticancer effects
have been demonstrated in mice (1). Potential for Australian commercial production has been
investigated (2).
1.Choedon T., Mathan G., Arya S., Kumar V.L. & Kumar V. (2006) Anticancer and cytotoxic properties of the
latex of Calotropis procera in a transgenic mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol.,
12(16): 2517-2522.
2.Rod Jones, DPI Vic.- pers. comm.
Camellia sinensis (LU CHA) green tea
Currently being developed as a commercial crop in Australia. One of the forty most important herbs in
industrialised Western countries (1). Both green and black tea are derived from Camellia sinensis but
differences in postharvest processing ensure that polyphenols with potent antioxidant and anticancer
properties are better preserved in the green form. Green tea’s clinical applications are primarily based
on its antioxidant activity. Green tea polyphenols have demonstrated greater antioxidant protection
than vitamins C and E (1). Numerous population based observational studies have demonstrated that
green tea consumption is associated with a significantly lower risk of many types of cancer, whereas
black tea effects can be the reverse (1). (However, a human observational study has shown that the
flavonoid intake of black tea can reduce incidence of stroke). Green tea and its extracts have also been
shown to exert many anticancer effects in experimental studies (1). Anticancer properties are the result
of polyphenols blocking the formation of cancer-causing compounds as well as effectively detoxifying
or trapping cancer causing chemicals. The forms of cancer that appear to be best prevented are those of
the gastrointestinal tract including cancers of the stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and colon (1).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
Campsis grandiflora (LING XIAO) Chinese trumpet creeper {R5}
Traditionally to promote blood circulation/relieve stasis (1). Cachinol, 1-O-methyl cachinol and iridoid
cachineside I isolated from the methanol extract of Campsis grandiflora leaves inhibited rat platelet
aggregation (2). In another recent study, oleanolic acid, hederagenin, ursolic acid, tormentic acid and
myrianthic acid were isolated from the methanol extract of the leaves (3). All of the compounds were
equivalently effective as acetylsalicylic acid in inhibiting induced platelet aggregation (3).
Compounds extracted from the flowers revealed relatively high human acyl-CoA cholesterol
acyltransferase-1 inhibitory activity (4). In the latest published work on C. grandiflora, the
antioxidative and antiinflammatory activities of the flower extract were investigated. In vitro exposure
of human dermal fibroblasts to the 50% ethanol flower extract showed significant antioxidative
protective effects against hydrogen peroxide, and topically applied extract dose-dependently inhibited
chemically-induced ear oedema in mice (5).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Jin J.L., Lee S., Lee Y.Y., Heo J.E., Kim J.M. & Yun-Choi H.S. (2005) Two new non-glycosidic iridoids from
the leaves of Campsis grandiflora. Planta Med., 71(6): 578-580.
3.Jin J.L., Lee Y.Y., Heo J.E., Lee S., Kim J.M. & Yun-Choi H.S. (2004)Anti-platelet pentacyclic triterpenoids
from leaves of Campsis grandiflora. Arch Pharm Res., 27(4): 376-380.
4.Kim D.H., Han K.M., Chung I.S., Kim D.K., Kim S.H., Kwon B.M., Jeong T.S., Park M.H., Ahn E.M. & Baek
N.I. (2005) Triterpenoids from the flower of Campsis grandiflora K. Schum. as human acyl-CoA: cholesterol
acyltransferase inhibitors. Arch Pharm Res., 28(5): 550-556.
5.Cui X.Y., Kim J.H., Zhao X., Chen B.Q., Lee B.C., Pyo H.B., Yun Y.P. & Zhang Y.H. (2006)
Antioxidative and acute anti-inflammatory effects of Campsis grandiflora flower. J Ethnopharmacol., 103(2):
223-228.
35
Camptotheca acuminata (XI ZHU) camptotheca {R16}
In Chinese folk medicine, this herb is used to treat carcinoma of the stomach, rectum, colon and
bladder, as well as chronic leukaemia (1). Modern research has extensively examined this species and
proven its antitumour activity. Camptothecin (CPT) is a modified monoterpene indole alkaloid
produced by Camptotheca acuminata and other angiosperm species (2,3). The CPT derivatives,
‘irinotecan’ and ‘topotecan’, are used throughout the world for treatment of various cancers, and over
a dozen CPT analogues are currently at various stages of clinical development. The world-wide market
size for irinotecan/topotecan in 2002 was estimated at $750 million (2). In spite of the rapid growth of
the market, CPT is still harvested by extraction from bark and seeds of C. acuminata and
Nothapodytes foetida. The development of hairy root cultures of C. acuminata, and the cloning and
characterisation of genes encoding key enzymes of the pathway leading to CPT formation in plants has
opened new possibilities to propose alternative and more sustainable production systems for this
important alkaloid (2).
Some trial plantings of C. acuminata are in the early stages of establishment in Queensland but further
funds are sought to progress the investigation (4).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Lorence A. & Nessler C.L. (2004) Camptothecin, over four decades of surprising findings. Phytochemistry,
65(20): 2735-2749.
3.Chang-Xiao L. & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
4.Craig Davis, DPI Qld. - pers. comm.
Cannabis sativa (HUO MA REN) hemp, cannabis or marijuana
The medicinal properties of this plant tend to be over-shadowed by its illegal use as a euphorigenic
drug. Used in Chinese medicine to lower blood pressure and in the West for relief of muscular
sclerosis symptoms.
Caragana sinica (JIN GI ER) Chinese peatree {R6}
The dried roots of Caragana sinica have been used in Korean and Chinese medicine for treatment of
neuralgia, rheumatism and arthritis (1). Chinese folk medicine also prescribes this herb to lower blood
pressure (2). The antihypertensive effect is due to a centrally mediated action on the sympathetic
nervous system. The main active compound is phyto-oestrogen ‘kobophenol A’ (3). Requires
continued investigation.
1.Kitanaka S., Takido M., Mizoue K., Kondo H. & Nakaike S. (1996) Oligomeric stilbenes from Caragana
chamlagu Lamark root. Chemical & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 44: 565-567.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Liang G.L., Bi J.B., Huang H.Q., Zhang S. & Hu C.Q. (2005) Metabolites and the pharmacokinetics of
kobophenol A from Caragana sinica in rats. J. Ethnopharmacol., 101(1-3): 324-329.
Caralluma attenuata {R3}
The hypoglycaemic effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of whole plant Caralluma attenuata were
investigated in both normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats, and blood glucose levels were found to
be significantly lowered (1). In similar earlier work, ethanol, chloroform and butanol extracts of C.
attenuata were tested on glucose loaded and alloxan-diabetic rats, and in both tests, the butanol extract
(oral dose 250 mg/kg) showed statistically significant antihyperglycaemic activity (2).
Luteolin-4'-O-neohesperidoside from C. attenuata has strong antiinflammatory action (more potent
than ibuprofen) (3). Note: this scientific name is under review.
1.Jayakar B., Rajkapoor B. & Suresh B. (2004) Effect of Caralluma attenuata in normal and alloxan induced
diabetic rats. J Herb Pharmacother., 4(1): 35-40.
2.Venkatesh S., Reddy G.D., Reddy B.M., Ramesh M. & Rao A.V. (2003) Antihyperglycemic activity of
Caralluma attenuata. Fitoterapia., 74(3): 274-279.
3.Ramesh M., Rao Y.N., Rao A.V., Prabhakar M.C., Rao C.S., Muralidhar N. & Reddy B.M. (1998)
Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of a flavonoid isolated from Caralluma attenuata. J
Ethnopharmacol., 62(1): 63-66.
36
Catharanthus roseus (CHANG CHU HUA) Madagascar periwinkle, Cape periwinkle or rose
periwinkle {R12}
A native to Africa but commonly used in Asian folk medicines. Decoctions of Catharanthus roseus
are used in traditional medicine for thwarting malaria, diabetes, cancer and skin disease (1).
Antidiabetic activity (usually of the fresh leaf juice) has been confirmed in studies on rats and rabbits
(2,3,4). C. roseus contains more than 70 different alkaloids (5). The major ones, ‘vinblastine’ and
‘vincristine’, are drugs that have been used in China for anticancer therapy (6) especially in cases of
chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and Hodgkin’s disease (5). The semi-synthetic compound ‘vindensine’
based on extracts from C. roseus is also effective against certain cancers (5). Currently grown as an
ornamental crop in Australia and proposed as a medicinal herb (7).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Pinn G. (2005) Herbal medicine in endocrinology and metabolic disease, pp. 383-398. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach
U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Singh S.N., Vats P., Suri S., Shyam R., Kumria M.M., Ranganathan S. & Sridharan K. (2001) Effect of an
antidiabetic extract of Catharanthus roseus on enzymic activities in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. J.
Ethnopharmacol., 76(3): 269-277.
4.Nammi S., Boini M.K., Lodagala S.D. & Behara R.B. (2003) The juice of fresh leaves of Catharanthus roseus
Linn. reduces blood glucose in normal and alloxan diabetic rabbits. BMC Complement Altern Med., 2003 Sep
2;3;4. Epub 2003 Sep 2.
5.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
6.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
7.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Celosia argentea (QING XIANG) feather cockscomb or silver cockscomb {R7}
Celosia argentea is used in traditional medicine for sores, ulcers and skin eruptions (1). Fifty plant
species used in the traditional medicine of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia were screened for antibacterial
and antifungal activities, and C. argentea was one of ten that displayed the broadest spectrum of
activity (2). A leaf extract improved wound healing (3) and ‘celosian’, an acidic polysaccharide from
the seeds, was an effective immunostimulating agent with potent antihepatotoxic effects (4). C.
argentea seeds are also widely used in Indian folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus (5).
A study showed that an alcoholic extract of the seeds possessed antidiabetic activity in alloxaninduced diabetic rats (5).
1.Priya K.S., Arumugam G., Rathinam B., Wells A. & Babu M. (2004) Celosia argentea Linn. leaf extract
improves wound healing in a rat burn wound model. Wound Repair Regen., 12(6): 618-625.
2.Wiart C., Mogana S., Khalifah S., Mahan M., Ismail S., Buckle M., Narayana A.K. & Sulaiman M. (2004)
Antimicrobial screening of plants used for traditional medicine in the state of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia.
Fitoterapia, 75(1): 68-73.
3.Priya K.S., Arumugam G., Rathinam B., Wells A. & Babu M. (2004) Celosia argentea Linn. leaf extract
improves wound healing in a rat burn wound model. Wound Repair Regen., 12(6): 618-625.
4.Hase K., Basnet P., Kadota S. & Namba T. (1997) Immunostimulating activity of Celosian, an antihepatotoxic
polysaccharide isolated from Celosia argentea. Planta Med., 63(3): 216-219.
5.Vetrichelvan T., Jegadeesan M. & Devi B.A. (2002) Anti-diabetic activity of alcoholic extract of Celosia
argentea Linn. seeds in rats. Biol Pharm Bull., 25(4): 526-528.
Centella asiatica (JI XUE CAO) marsh pennywort, gotu kola, hydrocotyle, brahmi, Indian
pennywort or daun pegaga {R8}
Identified in 1998 as a potential medicinal herb for Australian production (1) and now a commercial
crop (2). Centella asiatica is possibly one of the forty most important herbs in industrialised Western
countries (3). A native to India, China, Indonesia, Australia, the south pacific, Madagascar and much
of Africa (3). Modern research has substantiated its efficacy in wound healing and in the USA, the
most popular use of this plant has been in the treatment of cellulite and varicose veins. Human studies
have demonstrated that the total triterpenoid fraction is effective in treatment of venous insufficiency
due to its ability to enhance connective tissue structure of the perivascular sheath, reduce sclerosis or
hardening, and improve blood flow through affected limbs (4,5). Improvements have been observed in
approximately 80% of patients in clinical trials (3). The use of C. asiatica as an antiarthritic cure is not
supported by scientific trials.
37
The leaves of C. asiatica are commonly consumed as a green vegetable in Asian curries, salads and
soups but they may also be used as a tea-like drink. Its distribution is widespread and its highly
adaptive physiology allows it to thrive under a wide range of climatic conditions. In Australia, two
cultivars are grown commercially - one has small leaves and a creeping form, and the other has large
leaves and is erect (2). C. asiatica can survive in temperatures close to 0oC but it is not frost tolerant.
Light sandy to medium (loamy) soils are preferred, however, it also grows in heavy clay soils (2).
Optimum soil pH is in the range of 6.5 to 7.5.
1.Purbrick, P. (1998) Medicinal herbs, pp. 369-376. In, Hyde, K.W. (Ed.) ‘The New Rural Industries- a
Handbook for Farmers and Investors’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra,
570 pp.
2.Fernando N. & Vujovic S. (2005) Gotu kola- Pennywort. Access to Asian Foods Newsletter, Issue 83, August.
3.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
4.Cesarone M.R., Laurora G., De Sanctis M.T., Incandela L., Grimaldi R., Marelli C. & Belcaro G. (1994)
The microcirculatory activity of Centella asiatica in venous insufficiency. A double-blind study. Minerva
Cardioangiol., 42(6): 299-304.
5.Marastoni F., Baldo A., Redaelli G. & Ghiringhelli L. (1982) Centella asiatica extract in venous pathology of
the lower limbs and its evaluation as compared with tribenoside. Minerva Cardioangiol., 30(4): 201-207.
Cephalotaxus fortunei (SAN JIN SHAN) Plum yew, Chinese plum yew, Fortune’s plum yew or
three-pointed fir {R6}
Antitumour agents from this plant were discussed in the scientific literature in 1981 (1) and
‘harringtonine’ was later established as an anticancer drug (2). In 1992, two new alkaloids
(‘neoharringtonine’ and ‘anhydroharringtonine’) with antileukaemic activity were isolated from the
root and rhizome (3). Reports from Chinese hospital physicians have indicated that plum yew
compounds inhibit the hemopoietic system and reduce the leukocyte count (4). Cephalotaxus fortunei
has been successful in the treatment of leukaemia with an effective rate of 72.7%, and complete
remission in 20% of patients (4). Plum yew alkaloids are effective against malignant lymphoma and
clinical trials showed a reduction in tumour size and improvement in the patient’s overall condition
(4). However, harringtonine can cause heart problems. More recently, four new cephalotaxus alkaloids
were isolated from C. fortunei, and each displayed cytotoxicity against nasopharynx KB cells (5).
1.Sun N.J., Zhao Z.F., Chen R.T., Lin W. & Zhou Y.Z. (1981) Isolation and identification of the antitumor agenthainanolide from Cephalotaxus fortunei. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 16(3): 233-234.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Wang D.Z., Ma G.E. & Xu R.S. (1992) Studies on the alkaloids of Cephalotaxus. VII. Structures and semisynthesis of two anticancer cephalotaxine esters. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 27(3): 173-177.
4.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
5.Bocar M., Jossang A. & Bodo B. (2003) New alkaloids from Cephalotaxus fortunei. J Nat Prod., 66(1): 152154.
Chaenomeles speciosa (MU GUA) flowering quince or Chinese quince {R3}
Traditional Chinese use of Chaenomeles speciosa is for rheumatic and rheumatoid arthritis, especially
with muscular contracture (1). Glucosides from this species have been shown to reduce secondary
inflammation in adjuvant arthritic rats (2). In related work, it was concluded that the glucosides
possessed antiinflammatory and immunoregulatory actions and had a therapeutic effect for rats with
collagen-induced arthritis (3).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Dai M., Wei W., Shen Y.X. & Zheng Y.Q. (2003) Glucosides of Chaenomeles speciosa remit rat adjuvant
arthritis by inhibiting synoviocyte activities. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 24(11): 1161-1166.
3.Chen Q. & Wei W. (2003) Effects and mechanisms of glucosides of Chaenomeles speciosa on collageninduced arthritis in rats. Int Immunopharmacol., 3(4): 593-608.
38
Chrysanthemum x morifolium (JU HUA) chrysanthemum {R4}
An existing flower crop in Australia. Claimed actions include antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral,
antihypertensive (1). Commonly used in China for cases of angina pectoris and hypertension (2).
However, there is very little scientific evidence to support any medical benefits. The petals contain
carotenoids (3).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Kishimoto S., Maoka T., Nakayama M. & Ohmiya A. (2004) Carotenoid composition in petals of
chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflorum (Ramat.) Kitamura). Phytochemistry, 65(20): 2781-2787.
Cinnamomum camphora [Malay- TEJA LAWANG] camphor, camphor laurel or Japanese
camphor {R10}
Naturalised in many locations including Australia and is difficult to eliminate once established (1). An
essential oil from this plant has long been prescribed in traditional medicine for the treatment of
inflammation-related diseases such as rheumatism, sprains, bronchitis and muscle pains (2,3). Its
antiinflammatory actions are fairly well established (3).
1.Hall, D. (1988) Dorothy Hall’s Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Lothian, 327 pp.
2.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
3.Lee H.J., Hyun E.A., Yoon W.J., Kim B.H., Rhee M.H., Kang H.K., Cho J.Y. & Yoo E.S. (2006) In vitro antiinflammatory and anti-oxidative effects of Cinnamomum camphora extracts. J. Ethnopharmacol., 103(2): 208216.
Cinnamomum tamala [India- TEJPAT, Myanmar- KARAWAY] Cassia cinnamon or Indian
Cassia {R3}
In Myanmar the leaves and bark are used to treat heart disease, and the leaves are used for arthritis and
asthma (1). In a 2003 trial, extracts from Cinnamomum tamala showed significant blood glucose
lowering activity in rats (2). However, earlier work on mice was not supportive as an antidiabetic (3).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe, T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Kar A., Choudhary B.K. & Bandyopadhyay N.G. (2003) Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of
some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 84(1): 105-108.
3.Swanston-Flatt S.K., Day C., Bailey C.J. & Flatt P.R. (1989) Evaluation of traditional plant treatments for
diabetes: studies in streptozotocin diabetic mice. Acta Diabetol Lat., 26(1): 51-55.
Cinnamomum verum [India- DHAL CHINI, Malaysia-KAYA MANIS] cinnamon or Ceylon
cinnamon {R8}
An indigenous herb of Sri Lanka and India (1) and an important species in traditional Sikh medicine
(2). The dried bark and twigs are also used traditionally in China with other plants to treat cancer and
high blood pressure. Oils from this species are said to have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral
properties (1). Of 11 essential oils tested in vitro against pathogenic bacterial strains, Cinnamomum
verum was one of three exhibiting the highest and broadest antibacterial activity (3). In other work, the
in vitro inhibiting activity of 16 essential oils and 42 of their main constituents was investigated
against a strain of Candida albicans. The essential oils of five plant species including C. verum,
showed maximum inhibitory activity (4).
This species also exerted antioxidant protection in rats through its ability to activate antioxidant
enzymes (5). In very recent research, the free radical scavenging capacity and antioxidant activities of
the methanolic extract of C. verum leaf were studied and compared to antioxidant compounds like
trolox, butylated hydroxyl anisole, gallic acid and ascorbic acid (6). The extract exhibited free radical
and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. The peroxidation inhibiting activity showed very good
antioxidant activity (6).
Human clinical trials have shown that intake of 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon per day reduces serum
glucose, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with type II
diabetes (7). Suggesting that inclusion of cinnamon in the diet of people with type II diabetes will
reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Recognised as a potential new
crop for Australia (8).
39
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Sandhu D.S. & Heinrich M. (2005) The use of health foods, spices and other botanicals in the Sikh community
in London. Phytother Res., 19(7): 633-642.
3.Hersch-Martinez P., Leanos-Miranda B.E. & Solorzano-Santos F. (2005) Antibacterial effects of commercial
essential oils over locally prevalent pathogenic strains in Mexico. Fitoterapia, 76(5): 453-457.
4.Tampieri M.P., Galuppi R., Macchioni F., Carelle M.S., Falcioni L., Cioni P.L. & Morelli I. (2005) The
inhibition of Candida albicans by selected essential oils and their major components. Mycopathologia., 159(3):
339-345.
5.Dhuley J.N. (1999) Anti-oxidant effects of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) bark and greater cardamom
(Amomum subulatum) seeds in rats fed high fat diet. Indian J Exp Biol., 37(3): 238-242.
6.Mathew S. & Abraham T.E. (2006) In vitro antioxidant activity and scavenging effects of Cinnamomum verum
leaf extract assayed by different methodologies. Food Chem Toxicol., 44(2): 198-206.
7.Khan A., Safdar M., Ali Khan M.M., Khattak K.N. & Anderson R.A. (2003) Cinnamon improves glucose and
lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care., 26(12): 3215-3218.
8.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Cirsium japonicum (DA JI) Japanese thistle {R7}
The Chinese pharmacopoeia recommends the use of field thistle in treatment of bleeding and
inflammation (1). It is also said to be effective in treating hypertension and hepatitis (2). However,
scientific literature on medical use of this species is scarce. Recent work on effects of the methanol
extract on rats treated with ethanol suggested that Cirsium japonicum may alleviate alcoholic toxicity
by enhancing ethanol oxidation, as well as inhibiting lipid peroxidation (3). Also linked to
improvement of memory deficit in animals (4). Potential noxious weed (5).
1.Ganzera M., Pocher A. & Stuppner H. (2005) Differentiation of Cirsium japonicum and C. setosum by TLC
and HPLC-MS. Phytochem Anal., 16(3): 205-209.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Park J.C., Hur J.M., Park J.G., Kim S.C., Park J.R., Choi S.H. & Choi J.W. (2004) Effects of methanol extract
of Cirsium japonicum var. ussuriense and its principle, hispidulin-7-O-neohesperidoside on hepatic alcoholmetabolizing enzymes and lipid peroxidation in ethanol-treated rats. Phytother Res., 18(1): 19-24.
4.Yamazaki M., Hirakura K., Miyaichi Y., Imakura K., Kita M., Chiba K. & Mohri T. (2001) Effect of
polyacetylenes on the neurite outgrowth of neuronal culture cells and scopolamine-induced memory impairment
in mice. Biol Pharm Bull., 24(12): 1434-1436.
5.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Cirsium setosum (XIAO JI) field thistle {R3}
The Chinese pharmacopoeia indicates the use of Cirsium setosum in treatment of bleeding and
inflammation (1). However, no relevant material could be retrieved from the scientific literature.
1.Ganzera M., Pocher A. & Stuppner H. (2005) Differentiation of Cirsium japonicum and C. setosum by TLC
and HPLC-MS. Phytochem Anal., 16(3): 205-209.
Cistanche deserticola (ROU CONG RONG) desert broomrape or desert cistanche {R15}
An arabinogalactan isolated from the stems of Cistanche deserticola induced the proliferation of
cultured lymphocytes (1). Phenylethanoid compounds from the stem have shown strong free radical
scavenging activity (2). In another study, the rhizomes were extracted and the analgesic and antiinflammatory effects were evaluated in several animal models (3). Extracts effectively inhibited
writhing response, reduced pain and decreased oedema. These trials established that this plant has
analgesic and antiinflammatory effects, and the butanolic and aqueous layers contain the active
constituents (3). It is used in vast quantities in China but is collected from the wild rather than being
cultivated (4). This plant is rare or endangered (5).
1.Wu X.M., Gao X.M., Tsim K.W. & Tu P.F. (2005) An arabinogalactan isolated from the stems of Cistanche
deserticola induces the proliferation of cultured lymphocytes. Int J Biol Macromol., 37(5):278-282.
2.Xiong Q., Kadota S., Tani T. & Namba T. (1996) Antioxidative effects of phenylethanoids from Cistanche
deserticola. Biol Pharm Bull., 19(12): 1580-1585.
3.Lin L.W., Hsieh M.T., Tsai F.H., Wang W.H. & Wu C.R. (2002) Anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory
activity caused by Cistanche deserticola in rodents. J Ethnopharmacol., 83(3): 177-182.
4.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
5.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
40
Citrus reticulata (CHEN PI) mandarin or tangerine
Widely cultivated in the tropics and subtropics; probable origin in SE Asia. Current commercial crop
in Australia. Traditionally used as an antiasthmatic, antiinflammatory and circulatory stimulant (1).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Clematis chinensis (WEI LING XIAN) Chinese clematis {R12}
This plant has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for 1,000 years as an antibacterial,
antitumour, analgesic and antihyperglycaemic (1). Other sources suggest that traditional use extends to
treatment of arthralgia (2) and inflammation (3). An Australian study demonstrated inhibitory activity
against at least one enzyme relating to inflammation (4). The roots are rich in saponins (3,5). A
saponin-enriched fraction prepared from the methanol extract of the roots showed cytotoxic activity
against HL-60 promyelocytic leukaemia cells (5). In earlier work, the cytocidal effects of total saponin
from Clematis chinensis was demonstrated on experimental tumour EAC cells, S180A (mouse) cells
and HepA cells in vitro (6).
The cardiovascular pharmacology of aqueous extracts of C. chinensis was studied in rats both in vivo
and in vitro (7). A hypotensive response mediated through histaminergic activity was observed and the
extract relaxed isolated methoxamine preconstricted helical tail artery strips.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Xu R., Zhao W., Xu J., Shao B. & Qin G. (1996) Studies on bioactive saponins from Chinese medicinal plants.
Adv Exp Med Biol., 404: 371-382.
4.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
5.Mimaki Y., Yokosuka A., Hamanaka M., Sakuma C., Yamori T. & Sashida Y. (2004) Triterpene saponins from
the roots of Clematis chinensis. J Nat Prod., 67(9): 1511-1516.
6.Qiu G., Zhang M. & Yang Y. (1999) The antitumour activity of total saponin of Clematis chinensis. Zhong Yao
Cai., 22(7): 351-353.
7.Ho C.S., Wong Y.H. & Chiu K.W. (1989) The hypotensive action of Desmodium styracifolium and Clematis
chinensis. Am J Chin Med., 17(3-4): 189-202.
Clerodendrum trichotomum (CHOU WU TONG) kusagi {R5}
Clerodendron trichotomum leaves have been used for centuries in Chinese folk medicine for their
antiinflammatory properties. In one recent study, the antiinflammatory effects of leaf extract were
studied in rats, mice and in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Inhibition of carrageenan-induced rat paw
oedema, vascular permeability and prostaglandin E2 generation showed that a 60% methanol fraction
of the leaf contained potent antiinflammatory activity (1). ‘Isoacteoside’ and ‘jionoside D’ isolated
from C. trichotomum also demonstrated in vitro antioxidant properties (2,3). Stems of this plant have
also been traditionally used for treatment of hypertension in China, Korea, and Japan (4,5).
1.Choi J.H., Whang W.K. & Kim H.J. (2004) Studies on the anti-inflammatory effects of Clerodendron
trichotomum Thunberg leaves. Arch Pharm Res., 27(2): 189-193.
2.Chae S., Kim J.S., Kang K.A., Bu H.D., Lee Y., Seo Y.R., Hyun J.W. & Kang S.S. (2005) Antioxidant activity
of isoacteoside from Clerodendron trichotomum. J Toxicol Environ Health A., 68(5): 389-400.
3.Chae S., Kim J.S., Kang K.A., Bu H.D., Lee Y., Hyun J.W. & Kang S.S. (2004) Antioxidant activity of
jionoside D from Clerodendron trichotomum. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(10): 1504-1508.
4.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
5.Kang D.G., Lee Y.S., Kim H.J., Lee Y.M. & Lee H.S. (2003) Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory
phenylpropanoid glycosides from Clerodendron trichotomum. J Ethnopharmacol., 89(1): 151-154.
Cnidium monnieri (SHE CHUANG) {R23}
Cnidium monnieri is a well-known Chinese medicinal plant that is said to exhibit strong antipruritic,
antiallergic, antidermatophytic, antibacterial and antifungal activities (1). The main pharmacological
constituents of this herb are coumarin compounds and volatile oil but it also contains monoterpene
polyols, glucides, as well as recently discovered sesquiterpene components (2). In recent years, active
investigations of its antitumour activity have been performed in China and elsewhere. An up-to-date
review claims that C. monnieri possesses multi-aspect and comprehensive antitumour functions,
involving direct tumour-inhibitory activity and improvement in immune function (2). For example,
coumarins from the fruit induce apoptosis in human cancer cell-lines (3). Grown in very small
amounts in Australia (4).
41
1.Li H.B. & Chen F. (2005) Simultaneous separation and purification of five bioactive coumarins from the
Chinese medicinal plant Cnidium monnieri by high-speed counter-current chromatography. J Sep Sci., 28(3):
268-272.
2.Zhou Z.W. & Liu P.X. (2005) Progress in study of chemical constituents and anti-tumor activities of Cnidium
monnieri. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(17): 1309-1313.
3.Yang L.L., Wang M.C., Chen L.G. & Wang C.C. (2003) Cytotoxic activity of coumarins from the fruits of
Cnidium monnieri on leukemia cell lines. Planta Med., 69(12): 1091-1095.
4.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Coccinia grandis [India- KUNDREE, TINDORA] ivy gourd or little gourd {R6}
The leaves of this plant have been used since ancient times as an antidiabetic drug by Ayurvedic
physicians (1,2). In one trial, dried extract from this plant in doses of 500 mg/kg body weight was
administered orally to 30 diabetic patients for six weeks (3). Results suggested that ingredients present
in the C. grandis extract may act like insulin. In an experimental double-blind study, 10 of 16 patients
with uncontrolled maturity-onset diabetes who received a preparation of C. grandis leaves for six
weeks showed marked improvement in their glucose tolerance, while none out of the 16 patients in the
placebo group showed improvement (P<0.001) (4). Recognised as a potential new crop for Australia
(5) but is a potential aquatic or terrestrial noxious weed (6).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Grover J.K., Yadav S. & Vats V. (2002) Medicinal plants of India with anti-diabetic potential. J
Ethnopharmacol., 81(1): 81-100.
3.Kamble S.M., Kamlakar P.L., Vaidya S. & Bambole V.D. (1998) Influence of Coccinia indica on certain
enzymes in glycolytic and lipolytic pathway in human diabetes. Indian J Med Sci., 52(4): 143-146.
4.Khan A.K., AKhtar S. & Mahtab H. (1980) Treatment of diabetes mellitus with Coccinia indica. Br Med J.,
280: 1044.
5.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
6.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Codonopsis pilosula (DANG SHEN) bellflower or Asiabell {R21}
A double-blind, randomised placebo controlled trial design was used to determine the efficacy in
memory function of Codonopsis pilosula and Gingko biloba compared to placebo (1). Sixty
participants, aged 21 to 60 years, who were either students or faculty of the Southern California
University of Health Sciences underwent a computerised, standardised acquisition and retention test.
Findings indicated that both products were better than placebo at producing improvements in
acquisition and retention, and overall health status. The combination product (ie. both herbs) seemed
to be better than G. biloba alone in improving cognitive function (1).
C. pilosula is one of the 11 most important cultivated medicinal herbs in China (2). It was identified as
one of eight Chinese medicinal plants that had potential for production in the USA (3), but before then,
potential had been recognised for Australia (4). C. pilosula is a perennial member of the
Family Campanulaceae growing to 1.7 m. It is a climbing vine that grows well in part shade; it must
be provided with a trellis and spaced 30 cm within rows. Young growth in spring, even on mature
plants, is frost-tender. The roots are traditionally used and are harvested in autumn after three years.
One traditional option for oral dosage is 10 to 30 g of dried root, decocted in water (5).
1.Singh B., Song H., Liu X.D., Hardy M., Liu G.Z., Vinjamury S.P. & Martirosian C.D. (2004) Dangshen
(Codonopsis pilosula) and Bai guo (Gingko biloba) enhance learning and memory. Altern Ther Health Med.,
10(4): 52-56.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In Yaniv Z. & Bachrach
U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Craker L.E. & Giblette J. (2002) Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production, pp. 491-496.
In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
4.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
5.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
42
Coix lacryma-jobi (YI YI REN) coix, adlay or Job's tears {R17}
Seeds of Coix lachryma-jobi are consumed as an antiinflammatory medicine and health food. The
dried seed kernels from this grass are used to alleviate rheumatoid arthritis with contracture of joints
and muscles, and can be cooked into soup with rice and used in everyday meals (1). Results from trials
using mouse cells demonstrated that a methanol extract of the seeds showed antiinflammatory
properties which may involve an inhibition of nitric oxide or superoxide production by activated
macrophages (2).
The seeds are also used traditionally for their antitumour properties (3). Trials on rats suggested that
dehulled seeds suppressed early events in colon carcinogenesis but not the formation of tumours (4).
Another study examined the effects of methanolic extract of coix seed on the growth of human lung
cancer cells in vitro and found that it exerted an antiproliferative effect on A549 cancer cells by
inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (5). In mice, it was found that lung tumour growth in vivo was
inhibited by the methanolic extract (5). A neutral lipid isolated from the endosperm of coix inhibited in
vitro pancreatic cancer cell growth through induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest as well as
regulation of gene expression (6). This species is widely naturalised in the tropics and subtropics (7).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Seo W.G., Pae H.O., Chai K.Y., Yun Y.G., Kwon T.H. & Chung H.T. (2000) Inhibitory effects of methanol
extract of seeds of Job's Tears (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen) on nitric oxide and superoxide production in
RAW 264.7 macrophages. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol., 22(3): 545-554.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.Shih C.K., Chiang W. & Kuo M.L. (2004) Effects of adlay on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis in
rats. Food Chem Toxicol., 42(8): 1339-1347.
5.Chang H.C., Huang Y.C. & Hung W.C. (2003) Antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects of adlay seed on
lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. J Agric Food Chem., 51(12): 3656-3660.
6.Bao Y., Yuan Y., Xia L., Jiang H., Wu W. & Zhang X. (2005) Neutral lipid isolated from endosperm of Job's
tears inhibits the growth of pancreatic cancer cells via apoptosis, G2/M arrest, and regulation of gene expression.
J Gastroenterol Hepatol., 20(7): 1046-1053.
7.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Commelina communis (YA ZHI CAO) dayflower or Asiatic dayflower {R3}
An extract of Commelina communis after decoction in water is traditionally used for the treatment of
diabetes in Korea. An aqueous extract alleviated hyperglycaemia caused by maltose or starch loading
in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice with better efficacy than that of acarbose (1).
Prolonged administration of C. communis extract tended to normalise hyperglycaemia in
streptozotocin-diabetic mice suggesting potential for use in the management of non-insulin-dependent
diabetes (1). ‘P-hydroxycinnamic acid’ and ‘D-mannitol’ isolated from C. communis showed
antibacterial activity and antitussive effects respectively (2).
1.Youn J.Y., Park H.Y. & Cho K.H. (2004) Anti-hyperglycemic activity of Commelina communis L.: inhibition
of alpha-glucosidase. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2004 Dec; 66 Suppl 1: S149-155.
2.Tang X.Y., Zhou M.H., Zhang Z.H. & Zhang Y.B. (1994) Active constituents of Commelina communis L..
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 19(5): 297-298.
Commiphora wightii [Indian- GUGGUL(A)] mukul myrrh {R12}
Considered by some to be one of the forty most important herbs in industrialised Western countries
(1). A well known Ayurvedic herb for the treatment of arthritis which has recently come into
prominence as an effective treatment for high blood cholesterol (2). ‘Gugulipid’ is an extract of the
oleoresin of the mukul myrrh tree, a native to India (1). Several human studies have shown that
gugulipid can lower both cholesterol and triglyceride levels (1). The mechanism of action for its
cholesterol lowering action is the ability to increase the liver’s metabolism of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In an experimental placebo-controlled study, 205 patients received gugulipid or a placebo
(3). Total cholesterol was significantly lowered in 70-80% of patients. However, a recent review
suggested that more human research was required (4).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition. Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
3.Nityanand S., Srivastava J.S. & Asthana O.P. (1989) Clinical trials with Gugulipid: a new hypolipidemic agent.
J Assoc Phys India, 37(5): 323-328.
43
4.Pinn G. (2005) Herbal medicine in endocrinology and metabolic diesease, pp. 383-397. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
Commiphora myrrha (MO YAO ) myrrh or African myrrh {R6}
Reportedly contains antihyperglycaemic compounds (1). A recent investigation tested an aqueous
extract for its antiproliferative activity on eight cancer cell-lines as well as on normal human mammary
epithelial cells (2). Results indicated potential use as an antineoplastic agent with further evaluation
studies warranted. A furanosesquiterpenoid from the gum exudate exhibited weak cytotoxic activity
against a MCF-7 breast tumour cell-line (3).
1.Ubillas R.P., Mendez C.D., Jolad S.D., Luo J., King S.R., Carlson T.J. & Fort D.M. (1999) Antihyperglycemic
furanosesquiterpenes from Commiphora myrrha. Planta Med., 65(8): 778-779.
2.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
3.Zhu N., Kikuzaki H., Sheng S., Sang S., Rafi M.M., Wang M., Nakatani N., DiPaola R.S., Rosen R.T. & Ho
C.T. (2001) Furanosesquiterpenoids of Commiphora myrrha. J Nat Prod., 64(11): 1460-1462.
Convallaria keiskei (LING LAN) {R4}
This herb has digitalis-like cardiovascular action and has been used in the treatment of heart disease
(1).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Convallaria majalis - convallaria or lily-of-the-valley {R9}
During the 20th century, the drugs utilised most frequently by physicians for the treatment of
congestive heart failure have been obtained from digitalis. Numerous other plants contain cardioactive
glycosides with steroidal structures and physiological functions similar to those of digitalis. Some of
these (eg. Convallaria majalis, source of the drug ‘convallatoxin’) have been used from time to time in
the treatment of congestive heart failure, but none represents any special advantage over digitalis (1,2).
Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumour growth and represents a key target for chemopreventive
intervention. Despite the large number of existing angiogenesis inhibitors, there is still a great demand
for new antiangiogenic compounds. The effects of administration of ‘convallamaroside’ (a steroidal
saponin isolated from lily-of-the-valley) to mice on tumour angiogenesis reaction induced by tumour
cells has been investigated (3). Convallamaroside showed a significant inhibitory effect on the number
of new vessels induced in mice by human kidney tumour cells. Similarly, administration of
convallamaroside to mice decreased the number of new vessels induced by sarcoma mice cells (3).
1.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Pub.Haworth Herbal Press, 287 pp.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Nartowska J., Sommer E., Pastewka K., Sommer S. & Skopinska-Rozewska E. (2004) Anti-angiogenic activity
of convallamaroside, the steroidal saponin isolated from the rhizomes and roots of Convallaria majalis L. Acta
Pol Pharm., 61(4): 279-282.
Coptis chinensis (HUANG LIAN) golden thread or Chinese gold thread {R25}
‘Berberine’ is a plant alkaloid with a long history of medicinal use in both Chinese and Ayurvedic
medicine and it is present in Coptis chinensis (1). This plant is one of the 11 most important cultivated
medicinal plants in China (2). Berberine extracts and decoctions have demonstrated significant
antimicrobial activity against a variety of organisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoans,
helminths and chlamydia. Berberine showed antimicrobial activity against all tested strains of
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (3). In recent work, the inhibitory activity of C. chinensis
rhizome-derived material was evaluated against sortase, a bacterial surface protein anchoring
transpeptidase, from Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538p, and was found to be potent (4). C.
chinensis aqueous extracts also exhibited strong inhibition on cariogenic bacteria (5).
Trials with four human liver cancer cell-lines suggest that C. chinensis extract and its major
constituents, berberine and coptisine, possess active antihepatoma and antileukaemia activities (6).
After using C. chinensis compound for 30 days, the size of transplanted tumours in mice was
remarkably reduced, and the inhibition rate of tumour growth was 29.5% (7).
1.[No authors listed] (2000) Berberine. Altern Med Rev., 5(2): 175-177.
44
2.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Yu H.H., Kim K.J., Cha J.D., Kim H.K., Lee Y.E., Choi N.Y. & You Y.O. (2005) Antimicrobial Activity of
Berberine Alone and in Combination with Ampicillin or Oxacillin Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus
aureus. J Med Food., 8(4): 454-461.
4.Kim S.H., Shin D.S., Oh M.N., Chung S.C., Lee J.S. & Oh K.B. (2004) Inhibition of the bacterial surface
protein anchoring transpeptidase sortase by isoquinoline alkaloids. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem., 68(2): 421-424.
5.Wang S., Fan M. & Bian Z. (2001) Experimental study of bacteriostatic activity of Chinese herbal medicines
on primary cariogenic bacteria in vitro. Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi, 36(5): 385-387.
6.Lin C.C., Ng L.T., Hsu F.F., Shieh D.E. & Chiang L.C. (2004) Cytotoxic effects of Coptis chinensis and
Epimedium sagittatum extracts and their major constituents (berberine, coptisine and icariin) on hepatoma and
leukaemia cell growth. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol., 31(1-2): 65-69.
7.Wang G.P., Tang F.Q. & Zhou J.P. (2003) Effect of Coptis chinensis compound on the gene expression in
transplanted tumor tissue in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line of CNE1 by cDNA microarray. Hunan Yi Ke Da
Xue Xue Bao., 28(4): 347-352.
Coriolus versicolor (YUN ZHI) {R17}
Coriolus versicolor is a medicinal fungus widely prescribed for the prophylaxis and treatment of
cancer and infection in China (1). In recent years, it has been extensively demonstrated both
preclinically and clinically that aqueous extracts obtained from C. versicolor display a wide array of
biological activities, including stimulatory effects on different immune cells and inhibition of cancer
growth. The growing popularity of aqueous C. versicolor extracts as an adjunct medical modality to
conventional cancer therapies has generated substantial commercial interest in developing these
extracts into consistent and efficacious oral proprietary products. While very limited information is
available on the physical, chemical, and pharmacodynamic properties of the active principles present
in these extracts, there has been sufficient scientific evidence to support the feasibility of developing at
least some of these constituents into an evidence-based immunomodulatory agent (1).
Polysaccharide-K (PSK), also known as ‘krestin’, is a unique protein-bound polysaccharide, which has
been used as a chemoimmunotherapy agent in the treatment of cancer in Asia for over 30 years. PSK
and polysaccharopeptide (PSP) are both protein-bound polysaccharides which are derived from the
CM-101 and COV-1 strains of C. versicolor by Japanese and Chinese researchers, respectively (2).
Both polysaccharide preparations have documented anticancer activity in vitro, in vivo and in human
clinical trials, though PSK has been researched longer and has therefore undergone more thorough
laboratory, animal and clinical testing. Several randomised clinical trials have demonstrated that PSK
has great potential as an adjuvant cancer therapy agent, with positive results seen in the adjuvant
treatment of gastric, oesophageal, colorectal, breast and lung cancers. These studies have suggested the
efficacy of PSK as an immunotherapy or biological response modifier. Biological response modifiers
potentially have the ability to improve the ‘host versus tumour response’, thereby increasing the ability
of the host to defend itself from tumour progression (2).
In Japanese trials since 1970, PSK significantly extended survival at five years or beyond for patients
with cancers of the stomach, colon-rectum, oesophagus, nasopharynx, lung (non-small cell types) and
HLA B40-positive breast cancer (3). PSP was subjected to Phase II and Phase III trials in China. In
double-blind trials, PSP significantly extended five-year survival in patients with oesophageal cancer.
PSP significantly improved quality of life, provided substantial pain relief, and enhanced immune
status in 70 to 97% of patients with cancers of the stomach, oesophagus, lung, ovary, and cervix. PSK
and PSP boosted immune cell production, ameliorated chemotherapy symptoms, and enhanced tumour
infiltration by dendritic and cytotoxic T-cells. Their extremely high tolerability, proven benefits to
survival and quality of life, and compatibility with chemotherapy and radiation therapy makes them
well suited for cancer management regimens (3).
1.Chu K.K., Ho S.S. & Chow A.H. (2002) Coriolus versicolor: a medicinal mushroom with promising
immunotherapeutic values. J Clin Pharmacol., 42(9): 976-984.
2.Fisher M. & Yang L.X. (2002) Anticancer effects and mechanisms of polysaccharide-K (PSK): implications of
cancer immunotherapy. Anticancer Res., 22(3): 1737-1754.
3.Kidd P.M. (2000) The use of mushroom glucans and proteoglycans in cancer treatment. Altern Med Rev., 5(1):
4-27.
45
Cornus officinalis (SHAN ZHU YU) Japanese cornel, Asiatic dogwood or Japanese corneliancherry {R8}
This plant is used as an antibacterial and for lowering blood pressure (1,2). Water extracts of Cornus
officinalis inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma cells and leukaemic cells through antioxidant and
antineoplastic effects (3). Results from another study using iridoid total glycoside from C. officinalis
suggested that it was a beneficial agent for prevention and therapy of diabetic nephropathy (4).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
3.Chang J.S., Chiang L.C., Hsu F.F. & Lin C.C. (2004) Chemoprevention against hepatocellular carcinoma of
Cornus officinalis in vitro. Am J Chin Med., 32(5): 717-725.
4.Xu H.Q. & Hao H.P. (2004) Effects of iridoid total glycoside from Cornus officinalis on prevention of
glomerular overexpression of transforming growth factor beta 1 and matrixes in an experimental diabetes model.
Biol Pharm Bull., 27(7): 1014-1018.
Corydalis bungeana {R5}
Extracts from the whole plant contain glycosides and alkaloids (1). Petroleum ether and ethyl acetate
extracts showed activity against Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas syringae using a bioautographic
assay (2). Note: this scientific name is under review.
1.Xie C., Veitch N.C., Houghton P.J. & Simmonds M.S. (2004) Flavonoid glycosides and isoquinolinone
alkaloids from Corydalis bungeana. Phytochemistry., 65(22): 3041-3047.
2.Xie C., Kokubun T., Houghton P.J. & Simmonds M.S. (2004) Antibacterial activity of the Chinese traditional
medicine, Zi Hua Di Ding. Phytother Res., 18(6): 497-500.
Corydalis decumbens (XIA TIAN WU) decumbent corydalis tuber {R5}
Traditionally for ailments including hypertension, stroke and rheumatic arthritis (1,2). Various
compounds have been isolated from the bulbs/tubers including alkaloids (2,3). However, the species
seems to have generated limited documented research.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zhang J.S., Zhu D.Y. & Hong S.H. (1995) Isoquinoline alkaloids, decumbenine B and C, from Corydalis
decumbens. Phytochemistry, 39: 435-437.
3.Liao J., Liang W.Z. & Tu G.S. (1994) Chemical constituents of Corydalis decumbens (Thunb.) Pers. Zhongguo
Zhong Yao Za Zhi, 19(10): 612-3, 639.
Corydalis yanhusuo (YAN HU SUO) {R12}
Alkaloids from this plant have been shown to have a wide number of pharmacological actions on the
central nervous system, including analgesic and sedative actions (1). In a recent controlled clinical
trial, the analgesic effects of Corydalis yanhusuo were analysed in the cold-pressor test which is
widely used in humans for induction of chronic pain (2). With a single, oral administration of the
extracts of C. yanhusuo, pain intensity and pain bothersomeness scores significantly decreased
suggesting potential clinical value for treating mild to moderate pain (2). Corydalis alkaloids also have
cardiovascular effects [eg. the drug ‘dehydrocorydaline’ (3)]. dl-Tetrahydropalmatine has been shown
to both decrease the stickiness of platelets and protect against stroke (4), as well as lower blood
pressure and heart rate in animal studies (5). A small double-blind clinical trial found that it may also
exert an antiarrhythmic action on the heart (6). In recent work on rats, an extract from C. yanhusuo had
protective effects on myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury which were closely associated with
inhibition of myocardial apoptosis (7).
1.Zhu Y.P. (1998) Chinese Materia Media: Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Applications. Pub.- Australia:
Harwood Academic Publishers.
2.Yuan C.S., Mehendale S.R., Wang C.Z., Aung H.H., Jiang T., Guan X. & Shoyama Y. (2004) Effects of
Corydalis yanhusuo and Angelicae dahuricae on cold pressor-induced pain in humans: a controlled trial. J Clin
Pharmacol., 44(11): 1323-1327.
3.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
4.Xing J.F., Wang M.N., Ma X.Y., et al. (1997) Effects of dl-tetrahydropalmatine on rabbit platelet aggregation
and experimental thrombosis in rats. Chin Pharm Bull., 13: 258-260.
5.Lin M.T., Chueh F.Y., Hsieh M.T. Chen C.F. (1996) Antihypertensive effects of dl-tetrahydropalmatine: an
active principle isolated from corydalis. Clin Exper Pharm Physiol., 23: 738-742.
6.Xiaolin N., Zhenhua H., Xin M., et al. (1998) Clinical and experimental study of dl-tetrahydropalmatine effect
in the treatment of supraventricular arrhythmia. J Xi’An Med Univ., 10: 150-153.
46
7.Ling H., Wu L. & Li L. (2006) Corydalis yanhusuo rhizoma extract reduces infarct size and improves heart
function during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion by inhibiting apoptosis in rats. Phytother Res., 20(6): 448-453.
Crataegus pinnatifida (SHAN ZHA) Chinese hawthorn {R7}
Chinese hawthorn is said to lower blood cholesterol, improve coronary circulation, lower blood
pressure and also act as an antibacterial agent (1). However, it has not been as well investigated as its
European relatives Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata. An older study reported benefits in
treating angina (2). More recent investigation tested two cytotoxic ursane-type triterpenes (‘uvaol’ and
‘ursolic acid’) from this plant and found some weak-moderate cytotoxicity against cancer cell-lines
(3). ‘Corosolic acid’ isolated from the fruit was tested for anticancer activity and displayed about the
same potent cytotoxic activity against several human cancer cell-lines as ursolic acid (4). Flavonoid
contents from dried fruit demonstrated antiinflammatory potential in vitro and in live rats (5).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Weng W.L., Zhang W.Q., Liu F.Z., Yu X.C., Zhang P.W., Liu Y.N., Chi H.C., Yin G.X. & Huang M.B. (1984)
Therapeutic effect of Crataegus pinnatifida on 46 cases of angina pectoris - a double blind study. J Tradit Chin
Med., 4(4): 293-294.
3.Min B.S., Kim Y.H., Lee S.M., Jung H.J., Lee J.S., Na M.K., Lee C.O., Lee J.P. & Bae K. (2000)
Cytotoxic triterpenes from Crataegus pinnatifida. Arch Pharm Res., 23(2): 155-158.
4.Ahn K.S., Hahm M.S., Park E.J., Lee H.K. & Kim I.H. (1998) Corosolic acid isolated from the fruit of
Crataegus pinnatifida var. psilosa is a protein kinase C inhibitor as well as a cytotoxic agent. Planta Med., 64(5):
468-470.
5.Kao E.S., Wang C.J., Lin W.L., Yin Y.F., Wang C.P. & Tseng T.H. (2005) Anti-inflammatory potential of
flavonoid contents from dried fruit of Crataegus pinnatifida in vitro and in vivo. J Agric Food Chem., 53(2): 430436.
Crateva nurvala [Myanmar- KADET] three-leaf caper or garlic pear {R2}
Myanmar folk medicine uses this species for diabetes, abdominal tumours and asthma (1). Largely
ignored in modern research related to Australia’s chronic diseases. There is potential for production in
Australia (2).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Cratoxylum cochinchinense {R4}
Thirty-three traditional Chinese medicine extracts were examined for their antioxidant activity using
the 2,2'-azinobis[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate] assay. Five extracts with high activity, including
Cratoxylum cochinchinense were selected for further characterisation. C. cochinchinense outperformed most of the other extracts in most of the assays tested (1). In more up-to-date findings, new
xanthones and known compounds were isolated from the roots and they exhibited effective
antioxidative properties (2).
1.Tang S.Y., Whiteman M., Peng Z.F., Jenner A., Yong E.L. & Halliwell B. (2004) Characterization of
antioxidant and antiglycation properties and isolation of active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicines.
Free Radic Biol Med., 36(12): 1575-1587.
2.Mahabusarakam W., Nuangnaowarat W. & Taylor W.C. (2006) Xanthone derivatives from Cratoxylum
cochinchinense roots. Phytochemistry, 67(5): 470-474.
Crotalaria albida {R2}
Crotalaria albida is used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating coughs and phlegmy asthma; it
contains glycosides (1). The combined administration of cyclophosphamide and extracts from C.
albida (and Senecio) led to prolonged life-span of S180 (ascitic) tumour bearing mice (2).
1.Ding Y., Kinjo J., Yang C.R. & Nohara T. (1991) Oleanene glycosides from Crotalaria albida. Chemical &
Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 39: 496-498.
2.Indap M.A. & Gokhale S.V. (1986) Combined effect of cyclophosphamide and extracts of Crotalaria and
Senecio plants on experimental tumours. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol., 30(2): 182-186.
Crotalaria sessiliflora (YE BAI HE) rattlebox or tanukimame {R5}
Flavonoids have been isolated from the whole plant (1), while the seeds have been shown to contain
alkaloids (2). Seven antioxidative compounds were isolated from the aerial parts, and among the
isolated compounds, ‘hydroxyeucomic acid’ showed the strongest free radical-scavenging activity,
(almost identical to that of epigallocatechin gallate) (3). ‘Orientin’ and ‘isoorientin’ showed strong
47
antiperoxidative activities toward linoleic acid and protective effects against the bactericidal action of
the tert-butyl peroxyl radical. Their activities were nearly equal to that of epigallocatechin gallate (3).
The antitumour principles of this plant have also been considered and the alkaloid ‘monocrotaline A’
is credited for this activity (4,5). Reports of older clinical trials suggest that Crotalaria sessiliflora is
effective against skin carcinoma, cervical cancer and rectal cancer (4). Monocrotaline A is hydrolyzed
in the liver, its metabolite is strongly bound to RNA and inhibits DNA biosynthesis, thus creating a
reduction in protein synthesis by cancer cells (4). This species is a native to the Northern Territory and
Queensland.
1.Yoo H.S., Lee J.S., Kim C.Y. & Kim J. (2004) Flavonoids of Crotalaria sessiliflora. Arch Pharm Res., 27(5):
544-546.
2.Roder E., Liang X.T. & Kabus K.J. (1992) Pyrrolizidine alkaloids from the seeds of Crotalaria sessiliflora.
Planta medica, 58(3): 283.
3.Mun'im A., Negishi O. & Ozawa T. (2003) Antioxidative compounds from Crotalaria sessiliflora. Biosci
Biotechnol Biochem., 67(2): 410-414.
4.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
5.Huang L., Wu K.M., Xue Z., Cheng J.C., Xu L.Z., Xu S.P. & Xi Y.G. (1980) The isolation of antitumor active
principle of Crotalaria sessiliflora and synthesis of its derivatives. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 15(5): 278-283.
Croton oblongifolius [Myanmar- THETYIN-GYI] {R8}
Traditionally used for general inflammations and arthritis (1). Compounds from the stem bark have
shown cytotoxicity against human tumour cell-lines (2,3,4,5).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Roengsumran S., Pornpakakul S., Muangsin N., Sangvanich P., Nhujak T., Singtothong P., Chaichit N.,
Puthong S. & Petsom A. (2004) New halimane diterpenoids from Croton oblongifolius. Planta Med., 70(1): 8789.
3.Sommit D., Petsom A., Ishikawa T. & Roengsumran S. (2003) Cytotoxic activity of natural labdanes and their
semi-synthetic modified derivatives from Croton oblongifolius. Planta Med., 69(2): 167-170.
4.Roengsumran S., Musikul K., Petsom A., Vilaivan T., Sangvanich P., Pornpakakul S., Puthong S.,
Chaichantipyuth C., Jaiboon N. & Chaichit N. (2002) Croblongifolin, a new anticancer clerodane from Croton
oblongifolius. Planta Med., 68(3): 274-277.
5.Roengsumran S., Petsom A., Kuptiyanuwat N., Vilaivan T., Ngamrojnavanich N., Chaichantipyuth C. &
Phuthong S. (2001) Cytotoxic labdane diterpenoids from Croton oblongifolius. Phytochemistry, 56(1): 103-107.
Cullen corylifolium (BU GU ZHI) [Myanmar- NE HLE] psoralea, scurf(y) pea or black dot
{R12}
Used traditionally for asthma (1,2) but no relevant material could be retrieved from the scientific
literature.
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Curculigo orchioides (XIAN MAO) curculigo or golden eye-grass {R7}
The rhizome is traditionally used for treating arthralgia (1), asthma, jaundice and decline in strength
(2). Glycosides from the rhizome have shown potent antioxidative activity as evaluated by their
scavenging effects on hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anion radicals (3). Of 33 traditional Chinese
medicine extracts examined for their antioxidant activity, Curculigo orchioides was one of five
extracts with high activity (4). There is also some evidence to suggest that the methanolic extract can
stimulate immune responses (5), and the methanol extract of rhizomes holds potential (based on mouse
trials) as a protective agent against cytotoxic drugs (6).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Lakshmi V., Pandey K., Puri A., Saxena R.P. & Saxena K.C. (2003) Immunostimulant principles from
Curculigo orchioides. J Ethnopharmacol., 89(2-3): 181-184.
3.Wu Q., Fu D.X., Hou A.J., Lei G.Q., Liu Z.J., Chen J.K. & Zhou T.S. (2005) Antioxidative phenols and
phenolic glycosides from Curculigo orchioides. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo)., 53(8): 1065-1067.
4.Tang S.Y., Whiteman M., Peng Z.F., Jenner A., Yong E.L. & Halliwell B. (2004) Characterization of
antioxidant and antiglycation properties and isolation of active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicines.
Free Radic Biol Med., 36(12): 1575-1587.
5.Lakshmi V., Pandey K., Puri A., Saxena R.P. & Saxena K.C. (2003) Immunostimulant principles from
Curculigo orchioides. J Ethnopharmacol., 89(2-3): 181-184.
6.Bafna A.R. & Mishra S.H. (2006) Immunostimulatory effect of methanol extract of Curculigo orchioides on
immunosuppressed mice. J Ethnopharmacol., 104: 1-4.
48
Curcuma kwangsinensis (E ZHU) {R4}
Rhizoma Curcumae is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for over a thousand years to
remove blood stasis and alleviate pain. This medicine is made from the rhizomes of three Curcuma
species, including Curcuma kwangsinensis. In trials on isolated rat aorta, water extracts from this plant
showed vasodilation (relaxation) effects (1).
1.Sasaki Y., Goto H., Tohda C., Hatanaka F., Shibahara N., Shimada Y., Terasawa K. & Komatsu K. (2003)
Effects of curcuma drugs on vasomotion in isolated rat aorta. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(8): 1135-1143.
Curcuma longa (YU JIN) turmeric
An existing commercial crop in Australia and an important medicinal plant. Curcumin, a yellow
pigment in the rhizomes is a powerful antiinflammatory agent and turmeric’s usefulness in treating
rheumatoid arthritis is well documented.
Curcuma phaeocaulis (E ZHU) {R8}
Rhizoma Curcumae is a traditional Chinese medicine used to remove blood stasis and alleviate pain. It
is made from three types of Curcuma rhizome, including Curcuma phaeocaulis. In trials on isolated
rat aorta, water extracts from this plant showed vasodilation effects (1). Antiplatelet aggregation and
anticoagulant action were observed in mice treated with extracts of C. phaeocaulis (2). Mice
inoculated with C. phaeocaulis extract also showed improved learning in a water maze (3).
1.Sasaki Y., Goto H., Tohda C., Hatanaka F., Shibahara N., Shimada Y., Terasawa K. & Komatsu K.
(2003) Effects of curcuma drugs on vasomotion in isolated rat aorta. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(8): 1135-1143.
2.Mao C., Xie H. & Lu T. (2000) Studies on antiplatelet aggregation and anticoagulant action of Curcuma
phaeocaulis. Zhong Yao Cai, 23(4): 212-213.
3.Li L., Han C., Cui S., Qiu D., Piao K. & Xuan F. (1998) Effects of Curcuma phaeocaulis on learning and
memory and lipid peroxide in mice. Zhong Yao Cai., 21(10): 522-523.
Curcuma wenyujin (E ZHU or WEN YU JIN) {R7}
Rhizoma Curcumae is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used in removing blood stasis and
alleviating pain for over a thousand years. Three species of Curcuma rhizomes are used including
Curcuma wenyujin. In trials on isolated rat aorta, water extracts from this plant showed vasodilation
effects (1).
1.Sasaki Y., Goto H., Tohda C., Hatanaka F., Shibahara N., Shimada Y., Terasawa K. & Komatsu K. (2003)
Effects of curcuma drugs on vasomotion in isolated rat aorta. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(8): 1135-1143.
Curcuma zedoaria (E ZHU) kua, zedoary, zedoaire, temu putih or temu kuning {R6}
Before cancerous conditions were fully recognised, Chinese medicine used E Zhu in the treatment of
indigestion. Extracts from this species have now been broadly applied as an anticancer remedy, and
the active anticancer principles are believed to be ‘curcumenol’ and ‘curdione’ (1). Clinical trials in
209 cases of cervical carcinoma showed a 64.4% effective rate (1). After injection of the active extract
around the cancer, size of the cancer became smaller, the cancer tissue showed signs of necrosis and a
clear line of demarcation developed between normal and cancerous tissues. This species has not been
the focus of as much recent research as Curcuma longa.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Cuscuta chinensis (TU SI) Chinese dodder or aftimun {R15}
This species occurs in tropical and temperate Asia and is naturalised elsewhere (1). It occurs in
Queensland and possibly at limited locations elsewhere in Australia. Its current status is that of an
Australian native but the possibility that it is a naturalised species is being investigated. Cuscuta
chinensis is a holoparasitic angiosperm that develops haustoria for parasitism (2). This could be an
important agronomic factor in any attempt to commercialise production, although the species is a weed
in some commercial crops in China. Extracts from the seeds possess immune enhancement activity
(3,4,5). C. chinensis is also reputed to have antitumour activity and is used in the Indian Unani system
of medicine for that purpose. The effect of a hot water extract on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthraceneinduced skin papillomas and carcinomas in Swiss albino mice was studied, and oral administration
markedly delayed the appearance of papillomas, retarded their growth and reduced incidence of
carcinoma (6). The antimutagenic activity of 108 species of edible Thai plants was examined by other
researchers, and C. chinensis was one of five plants which exhibited significant activity (7). C.
49
chinensis is one component of a dietary supplement proprietary product called ‘Equiguard’. Results
from in vitro studies show that Equiguard significantly reduced cancer cell growth, induced apoptosis,
suppressed expression of the androgen receptor and lowered intracellular and secreted prostate specific
antigen, and almost completely abolished colony forming abilities of prostate cancer cells (8).
However, while searching for new oestrogenic compounds from plants, other workers investigating the
seed extract from C. chinensis found a compound that stimulated in vitro proliferation of breast cancer
cells (9).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Tada Y., Wakasugi T., Nishikawa A., Furuhashi K. & Yamada K. (2000) Developmental regulation of a gene
coding for a low-molecular-weight heat shock protein during haustorium formation in the seedlings of a
holoparasitic plant, Cuscuta japonica. Plant Cell Physiol., 41(12): 1373-1380.
3.Wang Z., Fang J.N., Ge D.L. & Li X.Y. (2000) Chemical characterization and immunological activities of an
acidic polysaccharide isolated from the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 21(12): 11361140.
4.Bao X., Wang Z., Fang J. & Li X. (2002) Structural features of an immunostimulating and antioxidant acidic
polysaccharide from the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis. Planta Med., 68(3): 237-243.
5.Lin H.B., Lin J.Q., Lin J.Q., Lu N. & Yi X.Y. (2003) Comparative study on immune enhancement effects of
four kinds of dodder seeds in Shandong Province. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao., 1(1): 51-53.
6.Nisa M., Akbar S., Tariq M. & Hussain Z. (1986) Effect of Cuscuta chinensis water extract on 7,12dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced skin papillomas and carcinomas in mice. J Ethnopharmacol., 18(1): 21-31.
7.Nakahara K., Trakoontivakorn G., Alzoreky N.S., Ono H., Onishi-Kameyama M. & Yoshida M. (2002)
Antimutagenicity of some edible Thai plants, and a bioactive carbazole alkaloid, mahanine, isolated from
Micromelum minutum. J Agric Food Chem., 50(17): 4796-4802.
8.Hsieh T.C., Lu X., Guo J., Xiong W., Kunicki J., Darzynkiewicz Z. & Wu J.M. (2002) Effects of herbal
preparation Equiguard on hormone-responsive and hormone-refractory prostate carcinoma cells: mechanistic
studies. Int J Oncol., 20(4): 681-689.
9.Umehara K., Nemoto K., Ohkubo T., Miyase T., Degawa M. & Noguchi H. (2004) Isolation of a new 15membered macrocyclic glycolipid lactone, Cuscutic Resinoside a from the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis: a
stimulator of breast cancer cell proliferation. Planta Med., 70(4): 299-304.
Cuscuta japonica (TU SI) Japanese dodder {R2}
Active components have been investigated that may be responsible for the antihypertensive action of
the traditional crude drug made from this species (1). Cuscuta japonica is a holoparasitic angiosperm
that develops haustoria for parasitism (2). This could complicate commercial production.
1.Oh H., Kang D.G., Lee S. & Lee H.S. (2002) Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors from Cuscuta japonica
Choisy. J Ethnopharmacol., 83(1-2): 105-108.
2.Tada Y., Wakasugi T., Nishikawa A., Furuhashi K. & Yamada K. (2000) Developmental regulation of a gene
coding for a low-molecular-weight heat shock protein during haustorium formation in the seedlings of a
holoparasitic plant, Cuscuta japonica. Plant Cell Physiol., 41(12): 1373-1380.
Cyclocarya paliurus (QING QIAN LIU) {R8}
The leaves of Cyclocarya paliurus possess an intensive sweet taste and are used to treat hypertension
and diabetes (1). Cyclocarioside A, the main sweet principle of this plant, possesses about 200 times
the sweetness intensity of sugar (2). The leaves contain saponins (1), triterpenoids (oleanolic acid,
ursolic acid, epikatonic acid) (3), and kaempferol, quercetin and isoquercitrin (4).
With respect to diabetes research, one study concluded that C. paliurus is rich in polysaccharide
complex, which had obvious blood-sugar reducing activity and could improve the capability of
glucose tolerance in diabetic mice (5). Another study examined the hypoglycaemic activity of the
species in mice by oral glucose tolerance testing (6). Blood glucose level was significantly lower in the
C. paliurus extract treatment group than in the control group after animals were given sucrose but this
difference was not observed following the administration of glucose. An in vitro study showed that C.
paliurus inhibits alpha-glucosidase, a disaccharide-degrading enzyme in the small intestinal mucosa,
leading to a decrease in the absorption of glucose into the blood and a subsequent lowering of the
blood glucose level (6).
C. paliurus extract reduced blood lipid levels in mice probably through suppression of the activity of
digestive lipase (7).
1.Shu RenGeng, Xu ChangRui, Li LianNiang, Yu ZhiLi, Shu R.G., Xu C.R, Li L.N. & Yu Z.L. (1995)
Cyclocariosides II and III: two secodammarane triterpenoid saponins from Cyclocarya paliurus. Planta Medica.,
61: 551-553.
50
2.Yang D.J., Zhong Z.C. & Xie Z.M. (1992) Studies on the sweet principles from the leaves of Cyclocarya
paliurus (Batal.) Iljinskaya. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 27(11): 841-844.
3.Shu R., Liu Y., Chen J. & Shu J. (2005) Studies on the triterpenoids of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinsk.
Zhong Yao Cai., 28(7): 558-559.
4.Yi X., Shi J.G., Zhou G.X. & Xie M.Y. (2002) Studies on the chemical constituents in the leaves of Cyclocarya
paliurus. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 27(1): 43-45.
5.Li L., Xie M. & Yi X. (2002) Study on reducing blood sugar of polysaccharide from Cyclocarya paliurus
(Batal.) Iljinsk. Zhong Yao Cai., 25(1): 39-41.
6.Kurihara H., Fukami H., Kusumoto A., Toyoda Y., Shibata H., Matsui Y., Asami S. & Tanaka T. (2003)
Hypoglycemic action of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinskaja in normal and diabetic mice. Biosci Biotechnol
Biochem., 67(4): 877-880.
7.Kurihara H., Asami S., Shibata H., Fukami H. & Tanaka T. (2003) Hypolipemic effect of Cyclocarya paliurus
(Batal) Iljinskaja in lipid-loaded mice. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(3): 383-385.
Cymbopogon distans (YUN XIANG CAO) {R1}
Traditional Chinese medicine recommends this herb for relief of bronchial asthma (1). However,
relevant material could not be retrieved from the scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Cynanchum glaucescens (BAI QIAN) glaucescent swallowwort {R7}
Used traditionally with other herbs for treating asthma (1). Decoctions of this species have been shown
to have antiasthmatic and antiinflammatory effects (2). Water, ethanol and ether extracts from
Cynanchum glaucescems administrated orally showed significant antitussive effect against ammoniainduced cough in mice (3). Water and ethanol extracts had obvious expectorant effects. A filtered
solution of water decoction injected intraperitoneally effectively protected guinea pigs from asthma
induced by an acetulcholine and histamine mixture, and also inhibited mouse ear inflammation caused
by croton oil (3).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Liang A., Xue B., Yang Q., Li Z., Wang J. & Fu M. (1996) Pharmacological comparative study on baiqian and
baiwei. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 21(10): 622-625.
3.Liang A., Xue B., Yang Q. & Li Z. (1995) Antitussive, expectorant and anti-asthmatic effects of Cynanchum
glaucescens (Decne.) Hand.-Mazz. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi, 20(3): 176-178,
Cynomorium songaricum (SUO YANG) songaria cynomorium {R11}
Stem extracts of this species were inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 protease (1). A
more recent study also confirmed that some triterpenes from the stems show inhibitory activity against
human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease (2). In order to develop a new apoptosis inducer, a study
screened 22 crude drugs for their apoptosis-inducing activity, and it was found that C. songaricum
induced the death of HL-60 cells (3).
1.Ma C., Nakamura N., Miyashiro H., Hattori M. & Shimotohno K. (1999) Inhibitory effects of constituents from
Cynomorium songaricum and related triterpene derivatives on HIV-1 protease. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 47(2):
141-145.
2.Nakamura N. (2004) Inhibitory effects of some traditional medicines on proliferation of HIV-1 and its protease.
Yakugaku Zasshi., 124(8): 519-529.
3.Nishida S., Kikuichi S., Yoshioka S., Tsubaki M., Fujii Y., Matsuda H., Kubo M. & Irimajiri K. (2003)
Induction of apoptosis in HL-60 cells treated with medicinal herbs. Am J Chin Med., 31(4): 551-562.
Cyperus rotundus (XIANG FU) nut grass, nut sedge, coco grass, purple/red nut sedge, tigernut,
musta or motha {R20}
Nitric oxide and superoxide are important mediators in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. The
methanol extract of rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus showed inhibition of nitric oxide production by
mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cell-line, and suppressed the production of superoxide by phorbol
ester-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells (1). The authors conclude that this extract could be developed for
the treatment of inflammatory diseases mediated by overproduction of nitric oxide and superoxide (1).
Results from recent research showed that C. rotundus was one component in a salt-spice-herbal
mixture that exerted promising antioxidant potential against free radical induced oxidative damage in
rats (2). In vitro antimalarial activity has also been reported for this species and in one test, of 49
plants investigated, the most active extract was obtained from the tubers of C. rotundus (3).
1.Seo W.G., Pae H.O., Oh G.S., Chai K.Y., Kwon T.O., Yun Y.G., Kim N.Y. & Chung H.T. (2001)
Inhibitory effects of methanol extract of Cyperus rotundus rhizomes on nitric oxide and superoxide productions
51
by murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7 cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 76(1): 59-64.
2.Natarajan K.S., Narasimhan M., Shanmugasundaram K.R. & Shanmugasundaram E.R. (2006) Antioxidant
activity of a salt-spice-herbal mixture against free radical induction. J Ethnopharmacol., 105(1-2):76-83.
3.Weenen H., Nkunya M.H., Bray D.H., Mwasumbi L.B., Kinabo L.S. & Kilimali V.A. (1990) Antimalarial
activity of Tanzanian medicinal plants. Planta Med., 56(4): 368-370.
Daemonorops draco (XUE JIE) dragon’s blood or dragon’s blood palm {R7}
Used internally to promote blood circulation and relieve pain. It is combined with other herbs in an
antibruise powder (1).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Dalbergia odorifera (JIANG XIANG) dalbergia or fragrant rosewood {R13}
Flavonoids are the main active constituents of Dalbergia odorifera (1). Components of the heartwood
showed antiallergic and significant antiinflammatory activity (2). The properties of ‘butein’ isolated
from D. odorifera were investigated, and it was concluded that it served as a powerful antioxidant
against lipid and human low-density lipoprotein peroxidation by its versatile free radical scavenging
actions and metal ion chelation (3).
1.Liu R., Wang W., Wang Q., Bi K. & Guo D. (2006) Identification and determination of major flavonoids in rat
urine by HPLC-UV and HPLC-MS methods following oral administration of Dalbergia odorifera extract.
Biomed Chromatogr., 20(1): 101-108.
2.Chan S.C., Chang Y.S., Wang J.P., Chen S.C. & Kuo S.C. (1998) Three new flavonoids and antiallergic, antiinflammatory constituents from the heartwood of Dalbergia odorifera. Planta Med., 64(2): 153-158.
3.Cheng Z.J., Kuo S.C., Chan S.C., Ko F.N. & Teng C.M. (1998) Antioxidant properties of butein isolated from
Dalbergia odorifera. Biochim Biophys Acta., 1392(2-3): 291-299.
Daphne genkwa (YUAN HUA) lilac daphne {R14}
This well known plant used in traditional Chinese medicine contains diterpenoids (1), diterpenes (1,2)
and biflavonoids (3). Early work pointed to the potential of this species in cancer treatment with two
of its natural products shown to possess antileukaemic activity in mice (4). In recent work, twelve
highly oxygenated novel daphnane-type diterpenoids (genkwanines A-L), together with four known
diterpenes were isolated from the buds (1). A number of these compounds showed very potent
cytotoxic activities against two tumour cell-lines, and five compounds exhibited strong activity to
inhibit endothelium cell HMEC proliferation (1). Daphne genkwa could be a promising source of
antitumour, antiinflammatory and antiallergy agents (5,6).
1.Zhan Z.J., Fan C.Q., Ding J. & Yue J.M. (2005) Novel diterpenoids with potent inhibitory activity against
endothelium cell HMEC and cytotoxic activities from a well-known TCM plant Daphne genkwa. Bioorg Med
Chem., 13(3): 645-655.
2.Zhou B.N. (1991) Some progress on the chemistry of natural bioactive terpenoids from Chinese medicinal
plants. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz., 86 Suppl 2: 219-226.
3.Zheng W.F. & Shi F. (2005) Three biflavonoids from ethanol extract of the root of Daphne genkwa. Yao Xue
Xue Bao., 40(5): 438-442.
4.Liou Y.F., Hall I.H. & Lee K.H. (1982) Antitumor agents LVI: the protein synthesis inhibition by
genkwadaphnin and yuanhuacine of P-388 lymphocytic leukemia cells. J Pharm Sci., 71(12): 1340-1344.
5.Kai H., Koine T., Baba M. & Okuyama T. (2004) Pharmacological effects of Daphne genkwa and Chinese
medical prescription, "Jyu-So-To". Yakugaku Zasshi., 124(6): 349-354.
6.Hong C.H., Hur S.K., Oh O.J., Kim S.S., Nam K.A. & Lee S.K. (2002) Evaluation of natural products on
inhibition of inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cultured mouse macrophage
cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 83(1-2): 153-159.
Dendrobium nobile (SHI HU) dendrobium orchid {R12}
Rare and/or endangered (1). Used to lower blood pressure (2). Two phenanthrenes isolated from the
aerial parts were found to be cytotoxic against A549 (human lung carcinoma), SK-OV-3 (human ovary
adenocarcinoma), and HL-60 (human promyelocytic leukaemia) cell-lines (3). One of these
compounds also showed antitumour activity and increased life-span of ICR mice intraperitoneally
implanted with cells of sarcoma 180 (3). A bibenzyl compound that possesses antimutagenic activity
has also been isolated from the storage stem (4). Two sesquiterpene glycosides, isolated from the
stems were found to stimulate the proliferation of murine T and B lymphocytes in vitro, while a third
compound showed inhibitory activity in this same assay (5).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
52
3.Lee Y.H., Park J.D., Baek N.I., Kim S.I. & Ahn B.Z. (1995) In vitro and in vivo antitumoral phenanthrenes
from the aerial parts of Dendrobium nobile. Planta Med., 61(2): 178-180.
4.Miyazawa M., Shimamura H., Nakamura S., Sugiura W., Kosaka H. & Kameoka H. (1999) Moscatilin from
Dendrobium nobile, a naturally occurring bibenzyl compound with potential antimutagenic activity. J Agric Food
Chem., 47(5): 2163-2167.
5.Zhao W., Ye Q., Tan X., Jiang H., Li X., Chen K. & Kinghorn A.D. (2001) Three new sesquiterpene
glycosides from Dendrobium nobile with immunomodulatory activity. J Nat Prod., 64(9): 1196-1200.
Dendrobium officinale (SHI HU) dendrobium orchid or suk gok {R4}
Rare and/or endangered (1). Used to lower blood pressure (2).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
Descurainia sophia (TING LI) fixweed or herb-sophia {R6}
A traditional treatment for some forms of asthma (1). Descurainia sophia was considered for its
cardiac glycosides in the past (2) and recent work has identified a new sulphur glycoside from the
seeds (3). Other components of the seeds include quercetins and kaempferols (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Chen Y.Q., Li R.Z. & Wang Y.W. (1981) Identification of cardiac glycosides from the seeds of Descurainia
sophia L. Webb. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 16(1): 62-64.
3.Sun K., Li X., Liu J.M., Wang J.H., Li W. & Sha Y. (2005) A novel sulphur glycoside from the seeds of
Descurainia sophia (L.). J Asian Nat Prod Res., 7(6): 853-856.
4.Wang A.Q., Wang X.K., Li J.L. & Cui X.Y. (2004) Isolation and structure identification of chemical
constituents from the seeds of Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 39(1): 46-51.
Desmodium styracifolium (GUANG JIN QIAN CAO) coin-leaf desmodium {R7}
The cardiovascular pharmacology of an aqueous extract of Desmodium styracifolium was studied in
rats both in vivo and in vitro (1). Hypotensive actions were produced and the extract relaxed isolated
methoxamine-preconstricted, helical tail artery strips.
1.Ho C.S., Wong Y.H. & Chiu K.W. (1989) The hypotensive action of Desmodium styracifolium and Clematis
chinensis. Am J Chin Med., 17(3-4): 189-202.
Dianthus superbus (QU MAI) fringed pink or pink dianthus {R11}
This plant is used as a diuretic in traditional Chinese medicine. It possesses some inhibitory activity
for urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis (1). Extracts displayed moderate antimutagenic activity using
the Salmonella/microsomal system in the presence of benzo[a]pyrene (2). Compounds isolated from
the methanol extract showed cytotoxicities toward the Hep G2 cancer cell-line (3,4).
1.Li J.J., Tu Y.Y., Tong J.Z. & Wang P.T. (2000) Inhibitory activity of Dianthus superbus L. and 11 kinds of
diuretic Traditional Chinese medicines for urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis in vitro. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za
Zhi., 25(10): 628-630.
2.Lee H. & Lin J.Y. (1988) Antimutagenic activity of extracts from anticancer drugs in Chinese medicine. Mutat
Res., 204(2): 229-234.
3.Hsieh P.W., Chang F.R., Wu C.C., Wu K.Y., Li C.M., Chen S.L. & Wu Y.C. (2004) New cytotoxic cyclic
peptides and dianthramide from Dianthus superbus. J Nat Prod., 67(9): 1522-1527.
4.Hsieh P.W., Chang F.R., Wu C.C., Li C.M., Wu K.Y., Chen S.L., Yen H.F. & Wu Y.C. (2005) Longicalycinin
A, a new cytotoxic cyclic peptide from Dianthus superbus var. longicalycinus (MAXIM.) WILL. Chem Pharm
Bull.(Tokyo), 53(3): 336-338.
Dichroa febrifuga (CHANG SHAN) Chinese quinine or fever flower {R14}
The active principle in Dichroa febrifuga is ‘febrifugine’, which was isolated 50 years ago but has
been used as an antimalarial in Chinese traditional medicine for more than 2,000 years. However,
intensive study of the properties of febrifugine has been hindered for decades due to its side-effects
(1). This species is also a Chinese antiarrhythmic drug which has been investigated in animal cell trials
(2). Other animal models established that an aqueous extract of the root had potential as a therapeutic
agent for inflammatory disease (3,4).
1.Jiang S., Zeng Q., Gettayacamin M., Tungtaeng A., Wannaying S., Lim A., Hansukjariya P., Okunji C.O., Zhu
S. & Fang, D. (2005) Antimalarial activities and therapeutic properties of febrifugine analogs. Antimicrob Agents
Chemother., 49(3): 1169-1176.
2.Lu L.L., Habuchi Y., Tanaka H. & Morikawa J. (1995) Electrophysiological effects of changrolin, an antiarrhythmic agent derived from Dichroa febrifuga, on guinea-pig and rabbit heart cells. Clin Exp Pharmacol
Physiol., 22(5): 337-341.
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3.Choi B.T., Lee J.H., Ko W.S., Kim Y.H., Choi Y.H., Kang H.S. & Kim H.D. (2003) Anti-inflammatory effects
of aqueous extract from Dichroa febrifuga root in rat liver. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 24(2): 127-132.
4.Kim Y.H., Ko W.S., Ha M.S., Lee C.H., Choi B.T., Kang H.S. & Kim H.D. (2000) The production of nitric
oxide and TNF-alpha in peritoneal macrophages is inhibited by Dichroa febrifuga Lour. J Ethnopharmacol.,
69(1): 35-43.
Dictamnus dasycarpus (BAI XIAN PI) dense fruit dittany {R12}
Components of Dictamnus dasycarpus were tested for their vasorelaxing effect on rat aorta, and
‘fraxinellone’ and ‘dictamine’ were shown to be effective vasorelaxants (1). In vitro tests for
immunological activity showed that ‘dictamnoside A’ (from the water-soluble constituents of the root
bark) possessed remarkable activity in stimulating the proliferation of T-cells (2). ‘Dasycarpuside A’
(isolated from water-soluble constituents of the root bark) showed weak cytotoxic activity against A549 (human lung adenocarcinoma) cell-line but another compound inhibited in vitro proliferation of Tcells (3).
1.Yu S.M., Ko F.N., Su M.J., Wu T.S., Wang M.L., Huang T.F. & Teng C.M. (1992) Vasorelaxing effect in rat
thoracic aorta caused by fraxinellone and dictamine isolated from the Chinese herb Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz:
comparison with cromakalim and Ca2+ channel blockers. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol., 345(3): 349355.
2.Chang J., Xuan L.J., Xu Y.M. & Zhang J.S. (2001) Seven new sesquiterpene glycosides from the root bark of
Dictamnus dasycarpus. J Nat Prod., 64(7): 935-938.
3.Chang J., Xuan L.J., Xu Y.M. & Zhang J.S. (2002) Cytotoxic terpenoid and immunosuppressive phenolic
glycosides from the root bark of Dictamnus dasycarpus. Planta Med., 68(5): 425-429.
Dimocarpus longan (LONG YAN ROU) longan {R5}
Traditionally used to treat palpitation due to fright, insomnia and poor memory (1). However, three
unusual amino acids have been isolated from the seeds and identified as antimutagens against
spontaneous mutation of Salmonella typhimurium TA100 (2). An extract of longan with adenosine
active principle was tested for its anxiolytic-like effect by application of the anticonflict method in
mice (3). The extract indicated significant positive activity and also contributed to an analgesic effect
which was observed through writhing. The rich array of phenolic compounds in longan seeds could be
utilised as health-beneficial bioactive compounds rather than just discarded as waste (4). Dimocarpus
longan is a relatively new commercial crop in subtropical Australia (5).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Minakata H., Komura H., Tamura S.Y., Ohfune Y., Nakanishi K. & Kada T. (1985) Antimutagenic unusual
amino acids from plants. Experientia., 41(12): 1622-1623.
3.Okuyama E, Ebihara H, Takeuchi H, Yamazaki M. (1999) Adenosine, the anxiolytic-like principle of the
Arillus of Euphoria longana. Planta Med., 65(2): 115-119.
4.Soong Y.Y. & Barlow P.J. (2005) Isolation and structure elucidation of phenolic compounds from longan
(Dimocarpus longan Lour.) seed by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass
spectrometry. J Chromatogr A., 1085(2): 270-277.
5.Drinnan J. (2004) Longans: postharvest handling and storage. Access to Asian Foods newsletter, Issue 70 May.
Dioscorea bulbifera (HUANG YAO ZI) aerial yam, potato yam or bitter yam {R5}
An extract of Dioscorea bulbifera rhizomes showed inhibitory effects against tumour promotion of
mouse epidermal JB6 cells (1). The constituents which showed the most potent antitumour promoting
effects were flavonoids. Another anticancer screen on this species was carried out in vivo with HepA
in mice (2). Results suggested that the active anticancer compounds are mainly extracted by petroleum
ether from hydrophobic constituents and that the anticancer effects are related to direct toxicity on
tumour cells. D. bulbifera is indigenous to the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia
but is a noxious weed elsewhere and is widely naturalised (3). Its native range also includes Africa and
Asia.
1.Gao H., Kuroyanagi M., Wu L., Kawahara N., Yasuno T. & Nakamura Y. (2002) Antitumor-promoting
constituents from Dioscorea bulbifera L. in JB6 mouse epidermal cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 25(9): 1241-1243.
2.Yu Z.L., Liu X.R., McCulloch M. & Gao J. (2004) Anticancer effects of various fractions extracted from
Dioscorea bulbifera on mice bearing HepA. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(6): 563-567.
3.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
54
Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca (FEN BEI SHU YU) {R10}
Rhizomes of Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
cervical carcinoma, carcinoma of the urinary bladder and renal tumours (1). Steroidal saponins
isolated from this plant were identified as the active compounds exhibiting cytotoxic activity against
the cancer cell-line K562 in vitro (1). In other work, ‘methyl protogracillin’ and ‘methyl
protoneodioscin’, both furostanol saponins isolated from the rhizome were tested for their cytotoxicity
in vitro against 60 human cancer cell-lines (2,3). It was found that both compounds were cytotoxic
against all tested cell-lines from leukaemia and solid tumours. The mechanism of anticancer action
was believed to be novel (2,3). Other furostanol saponins isolated from the rhizome were cytotoxic
against most tested cell-lines from leukaemia and solid tumours (4,5,6).
1.Hu Ke, Dong AiJun, Yao XinSheng, Kobayashi H., Iwasaki S., Hu K., Dong A.J. & Yao X.S. (1996)
Antineoplastic agents; I. Three spirostanol glycosides from rhizomes of Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca.
Planta-Medica, 62: 573-575.
2.Hu K. & Yao X. (2001) Methyl protogracillin (NSC-698792): the spectrum of cytotoxicity against 60 human
cancer cell lines in the National Cancer Institute's anticancer drug screen panel. Anticancer Drugs, 12(6): 541547.
3.Hu K. & Yao X.S. (2002) The cytotoxicity of methyl protoneodioscin (NSC-698791) against human cancer cell
lines in vitro. Anticancer Res., 22(2A): 1001-1005.
4.Hu K. & Yao X. (2002) Protodioscin (NSC-698 796): its spectrum of cytotoxicity against sixty human cancer
cell lines in an anticancer drug screen panel. Planta Med., 68(4): 297-301.
5.Hu K. & Yao X. (2002) The cytotoxicity of protoneodioscin (NSC-698789), a furostanol saponin from the
rhizomes of Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca, against human cancer cells in vitro. Phytomedicine., 9(6): 560565.
6.Hu K. & Yao X. (2003) The cytotoxicity of methyl protodioscin against human cancer cell lines in vitro.
Cancer Invest., 21(3): 389-393.
Dioscorea oppositifolia (SHAN YAO) Chinese yam {R5}
Dioscorea oppositifolia is used in China for the treatment of asthma and diabetes (1). Compounds
from this plant exhibited promising neuroprotective effects and discernible-to-moderate antioxidant
activities in vitro (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Ma C., Wang W., Chen Y.Y., Liu R.N., Wang R.F. & Du L.J. (2005) Neuroprotective and antioxidant activity
of compounds from the aerial parts of Dioscorea opposita. J Nat Prod., 68(8): 1259-1261.
Diospyros kaki (SHI DI) Chinese persimmon, Japanese persimmon or kaki
An existing commercial crop in Australia. Use of the leaves as a tea in Korea has a long tradition
because it is thought to be effective against hypertension. Diospyros kaki extracts were found to
exhibit distinctive vasorelaxant activity in isolated rat aorta (1). Flavone from leaves may exert
vascular protection by inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell growth associated with
hypercholesterolaemia (2).
1.Yin M.H., Kang D.G., Choi D.H., Kwon T.O. & Lee H.S. (2005) Screening of vasorelaxant activity of some
medicinal plants used in Oriental medicines. J Ethnopharmacol., 99(1): 113-117.
2.Ouyang P., Bei W., Lai W. & Peng W. (2004) Effects of flavone from leaves of Diospyros kaki on rat vascular
smooth muscle cell proliferation stimulated by native low-density lipoprotein in vitro. Zhong Yao Cai., 27(8):
600-602.
Diospyros maritima {R6}
Stems of Diospyros maritima are used as a traditional treatment for rheumatic diseases in Taiwan (1).
The bark (2) and stem (1) may contain cytotoxic constituents. Some of these constituents exhibited
strong in vitro cytotoxicity against cancer cell-lines (1). A native to northern Australia (3).
1.Kuo Y.H., Chang C.I., Li S.Y., Chou C.J., Chen C.F., Kuo Y.H. & Lee K.H. (1997) Cytotoxic constituents
from the stems of Diospyros maritima. Planta Medica., 63: 363-365.
2.Gu J.Q., Graf T.N., Lee D., Chai H.B., Mi Q., Kardono L.B., Setyowati F.M., Ismail R., Riswan S., Farnsworth
N.R., Cordell G.A., Pezzuto J.M., Swanson S.M., Kroll D.J., Falkinham J.O. 3rd, Wall M.E., Wani M.C.,
Kinghorn A.D. & Oberlies N.H. (2004) Cytotoxic and antimicrobial constituents of the bark of Diospyros
maritima collected in two geographical locations in Indonesia. J Nat Prod., 67(7): 1156-1161.
3.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
55
Dipsacus asperoides (XU DUAN) Himalayan teasel plant or Sichuan teasel {R4}
According to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, beta-amyloid protein is directly toxic to
neurons, leading to neurodegeneration. To explore the effects of saponins from Dipsacus asperoides
on neuronal damage induced by beta-amyloid protein in vitro, biochemical analysis combining
primary cultured neurons was adopted (1). Results demonstrated that the saponins possessed a
neuroprotective action possibly achieved by relieving oxidative stress.
1.Qian Y.H., Liu Y., Hu H.T., Ren H.M., Chen X.L. & Xu J.H. (2002) The effects of the total saponin of
Dipsacus asperoides on the damage of cultured neurons induced by beta-amyloid protein 25-35. Anat Sci Int.,
77(3): 196-200.
Drynaria fortunei (GU SUI BU) drynaria {R18}
In traditional Chinese medicine this plant is reported as a good enhancer of bone healing.
Pharmacological factors are needed to prevent bone loss that occurs with increasing age. However, the
chemical compounds that act on bone metabolism in herbal medicines are poorly understood (1).
Human cell-line studies have shown that Drynaria fortunei extract directly stimulates cell proliferation
and differentiation of osteoblasts (1). Results also suggest that D. fortunei is effective for bone
antiresorptive action in bone cells. In complementary work, the proliferative effects of 30 Oriental
medicinal herbs on MCF-7 (oestrogen-sensitive breast cancer cell-line) and ROS 17/2.8 osteoblast-like
cells were determined (2). The methanol extract from rhizomes of D. fortunei showed the most potent
proliferative activity. Compounds isolated from the rhizomes may be useful as phyto-oestrogens,
which can play important physiological roles in the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis (2).
Benefits to bone structure and healing are further demonstrated in various animal experiments (eg.
3,4). Note: this scientific name is undergoing review.
1.Jeong J.C., Lee J.W., Yoon C.H., Lee Y.C., Chung K.H., Kim M.G. & Kim C.H. (2005) Stimulative effects of
Drynariae Rhizoma extracts on the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. J
Ethnopharmacol., 96(3): 489-495.
2.Chang E.J., Lee W.J., Cho S.H. & Choi S.W. (2003) Proliferative effects of flavan-3-ols and propelargonidins
from rhizomes of Drynaria fortunei on MCF-7 and osteoblastic cells. Arch Pharm Res., 26(8): 620-630.
3.Tang Q., Chen L.L. & Yan J. (2004) Effects of traditional chinese medicine Drynaria fortunei smith on
promoting the proliferation, differentiation and calcification of mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells Zhongguo
Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(2): 164-168.
4.Chen L.L., Tang Q. & Yan J. (2004) Therapeutic effect of aqueous-extract from a traditional Chinese medical
herb Drynaria fortunei on rat experimental model of alveolar bone resorption. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi.,
29(6): 549-553.
Duchesnea indica (SHE MEI) false strawberry, Indian strawberry or mock strawberry {R7}
A native to temperate and tropical Asia but widely naturalised elsewhere (1). This herb is said to
possesses anticancer activity (2). Aqueous extracts of Duchesnea indica showed in vitro
antiproliferative activity towards cancer cells (3).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
Ecklonia kurome (KUN BU) kelp {R10}
Compounds from this seaweed have anticoagulant activity (1). More recently, the bactericidal activity
of phlorotannins from this brown alga were found to be as effective against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus as against other bacteria tested (2).
1.Nishino T., Nagumo T., Kiyohara H. & Yamada H. (1991) Structural characterization of a new anticoagulant
fucan sulfate from the brown seaweed Ecklonia kurome. Carbohydr Res., 211(1): 77-90.
2.Nagayama K., Iwamura Y., Shibata T., Hirayama I. & Nakamura T. (2002) Bactericidal activity of
phlorotannins from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome. J Antimicrob Chemother., 50(6): 889-893.
Eleutherococcus gracilistylus (WU JIA) slenderstyle acanthopanax {R8}
Traditionally the root bark is used for rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis due to deficiency of the liver
and kidney (1). Cytoactivity tests in vitro showed that by regulating the activity of cell cycle
controlling enzymes, extracts of this plant inhibited the proliferation of human tumour cells but did not
lead to cell death (2,3). Another study found that extracts inhibited human platelet aggregation,
liberation, and thrombosis in vitro, suggesting possible antithrombotic action (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
56
2.Shan B.E., Fu X.M., Hua Z.X., Li Q., Liang W., Liu J., Zhang H. & Liu G. (2005) Study on mechanism of the
anti-tumor activity of Acanthopanax gracilistylus. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 25(9): 825-828.
3.Shan B.E., Zeki K., Sugiura T., Yoshida Y. & Yamashita U. (2000) Chinese medicinal herb, Acanthopanax
gracilistylus, extract induces cell cycle arrest of human tumor cells in vitro. Jpn J Cancer Res., 91(4): 383-389.
4.Chen X.C., Xia L., Hu S. & Huang G. (1996) Inhibitory effects of Acanthopanax gracilistylus saponins on
human platelet aggregation and platelet factor 4 liberation in vitro. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao., 17(6): 523-526.
Eleutherococcus senticosus (WU JIA PI or CI WU JIA) eleuthero or Siberian ginseng {R18}
This shrub grows abundantly in parts of the old ‘Soviet’ Far East, Korea, China and Japan. It became
well known in the West in the 1950s when it was extensively used by Soviet athletes to increase
stamina and enhance performance but has been used in China for at least 2,000 years (1,2). It is
generally considered to be a cheaper and more abundant substitute for Panax ginseng. Previously
identified as a potential new crop for Australia (3).
Plant adaptogens are compounds that increase the ability of an organism to adapt to environmental
factors and to avoid damage from such factors. The sympatho-adrenal-system mediated stimulating
effects of adaptogen derived from Eleutherococcus senticosus typically generate no side effects, unlike
traditional stimulants (4). Furthermore, administration of this adaptogen can effectively increase
mental performance and physical working capacity in humans (4,5). E. senticosus root extract has
been administered to more than 2,100 healthy human subjects in clinical trials for evaluating its
adaptogenic properties (5). An unspecific feeling of fatigue and asthenia often pushes elderly people to
seek help from adaptogenic substances. A recent randomised clinical trial of E. senticosus found that it
safely improved some aspects of mental health and social functioning in elderly hypertensive human
volunteers (6). It has also been observed to reduce cardiovascular stress (7).
Animal experiments and modern clinical trails have shown that a number of herbs are
immunologically active (eg. E. senticosus), and most of the tonics derived from them are
immunomodulating agents (8). Administration of E. senticosus may improve immune function for
patients with immunodepression. Treatment with this herb increased the absolute number of
immunocompetent cells, with an especially pronounced effect on T lymphocytes but also on cytotoxic
and natural killer cells (9). In addition, a general enhancement of the activation state of T lymphocytes
was observed.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Pub.- Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
3.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
4.Panossian A. & Wagner H. (2005) Stimulating effect of adaptogens: an overview with particular reference to
their efficacy following single dose administration. Phytother Res., 19(10): 819-838.
5.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
6.Cicero A.F., Derosa G., Brillante R., Bernardi R., Nascetti S. & Gaddi A. (2004) Effects of Siberian ginseng
(Eleutherococcus senticosus maxim.) on elderly quality of life: a randomized clinical trial. Arch Gerontol Geriatr
Suppl., 9: 69-73.
7.Facchinelli F., Neri L. & Larabusi M. (2002) Eleutherococcus senticosus reduces cardiovascular stress
response in healthy subjects: a randomised, placebo controlled trial. Stress & Health, 18: 11-17.
8.Li X.Y. (1991) Immunomodulating Chinese herbal medicines. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz., 1991;86 Suppl 2: 159164.
9.Bohn B., Nebe C.T. & Birr C. (1987) Flow-cytometric studies with Eleutherococcus senticosus extract as an
immunomodulatory agent. Arzneimittelforschung., 37(10): 1193-1196.
Elsholtzia splendens (XIANG RU) aromatic madder or Haizhou elsholtzia {R4}
In North-East Asia, this plant is an ingredient of folk medicines used to treat cough, headache and
inflammation (1). In vivo antiinflammatory activity using several mouse models of inflammation and
pain established that an ethanol extract of this herb inhibited ear oedema and exhibited significant
analgesic activity against mouse acetic acid-induced writhing (1).
In 31 hyperlipaemia human patients, a combined Acanthopanax senticosus and Elscholtzia splendens
treatment significantly decreased serum beta-lipoprotein and increased high density lipoproteincholesterol (2). Thus, the arteriosclerosis index decreased significantly.
57
1.Kim D.W., Son K.H., Chang H.W., Bae K., Kang S.S. & Kim H.P. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of
Elsholtzia splendens. Arch Pharm Res., 26(3): 232-236.
2.Shi Z., Liu C. & Li R. (1990) Effect of a mixture of Acanthopanax senticosus and Elsholtzia splendens on
serum-lipids in patients with hyperlipemia. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(3): 155-156.
Enicostemma littorale [India- NAHI or MAJA-MAKKA BOOTI] {R12}
A perennial herb found throughout India. Available commercially as a botanical extract. Pills prepared
from Enicostemma littorale were administered to 84 human patients with Type II Diabetes for three
months (1). Estimation of various biochemical parameters showed that E. littorale reduced blood
glucose as well as serum insulin levels and prevented the progression of complications in diabetic
patients. Significant improvement in kidney function, lipid profile and blood pressure was observed
suggesting that E. littorale is an effective herbal antidiabetic (1). This herb’s potent antidiabetic
properties have also been well demonstrated in experiments with rats (eg. 2,3). Note: this scientific
name is under review.
1.Upadhyay U.M. & Goyal R.K. (2004) Efficacy of Enicostemma littorale in Type 2 diabetic patients. Phytother
Res., 18(3): 233-235.
2.Srinivasan M., Padmanabhan M. & Prince P.S. (2005) Effect of aqueous Enicostemma littorale Blume extract
on key carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, lipid peroxides and antioxidants in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J
Pharm Pharmacol., 57(4): 497-503.
3.Maroo J., Vasu V.T. & Gupta S. (2003) Dose dependent hypoglycemic effect of aqueous extract of
Enicostemma littorale blume in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Phytomedicine, 10(2-3): 196-199.
Entada phaseoloides (GUO GANG LONG) St. Thomas bean, matchbox bean, Queensland bean
or gogo {R4}
The native range for this species includes temperate and tropical Asia, and the Pacific region including
Australia (north Queensland) (1,2). A tall woody climber found in rainforest or dense scrub just above
coastal high-water marks (2). It is used as an antirheumatic (3). Two sulfur-containing amides,
‘entadamide A’ and ‘entadamide B’, isolated from the seeds of Entada phaseoloides, were synthesised
and found to inhibit the 5-lipoxygenase activity of RBL-1 cells, suggesting potential as
antiinflammatory drugs (4).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Lassak E. & McCarthy T. (2001) Australian Medicinal Plants. Pub.- Reed New Holland, JB Books, 240 pp.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.Ikegami F., Sekine T., Aburada M., Fujii Y., Komatsu Y. & Murakoshi I. (1989) Synthesis of entadamide A
and entadamide B isolated from Entada phaseoloides and their inhibitory effects on 5-lipoxygenase. Chem
Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 37(7): 1932-1933.
Ephedra sinica (MA HUANG) Chinese ephedra or Chinese joint-fir
One of the forty most important herbs in industrialised Western countries (1). Uses supported by
clinical data include- treatment of nasal congestion due to hay fever, allergic rhinitis, acute coryza,
common cold, sinusitis and bronchial asthma (2).
Ma Huang’s medicinal use in China dates from approximately 2800 BC (1). It was traditionally used
primarily in the treatment of common cold, asthma, hay fever, arthritis, hypotension and hives.
Western medicine’s interest in ephedra began in 1923 with the demonstration that the isolated alkaloid
‘ephedrine’ possessed a number of pharmacological effects (1). Ephedrine was synthesised in 1927
and since that time both ephedrine and pseudoephedrine have been used extensively in over-thecounter cold and allergy medications (1). Ephedra was the first Chinese herbal remedy to yield an
active constituent widely used in Western medicine (2).
Ephedra is a relatively potent and useful herb for relieving the bronchoconstriction and mucosal
congestion associated with bronchial asthma (2). The dosage of ephedra is dependent on the alkaloid
content, the average total alkaloid content of Ephedra sinica is 1 to 3% (1). For asthma, the dose of
ephedra should have an ephedrine content of 12.5 to 25.0 mg, (taken 2 to 3 times daily); for the crude
herb this would require a dose of 500 to 1,000 mg three times per day (1).
Ephedra has multiple, serious side-effects (eg. increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, nausea,
insomnia, irritability) particularly in large doses. These side-effects prohibit the indiscriminate use of
ephedra, especially for people suffering heart conditions, hypertension, diabetes or thyroid disease (2).
58
Various products containing ephedra or ephedrine have been marketed with numerous unsubstantiated
and potentially dangerous therapeutic claims. These include weight loss, appetite control and an
alternative to illegal street drugs like ‘Ecstasy’ (2). Due to its chemical structure, ephedrine can serve
as a precursor for illegal synthesis of the drug ‘speed’. Restricting the availability of the herb will not
have an effect because the plant is a minor source of ephedrine, most is produced by chemical
synthesis. The Food and Drug Administration of USA banned the sale of dietary supplements
containing ephedra in April, 2004.
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.WHO monographs (1999) WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants Volume 1, Pub.- World Health
Organisation, Geneva, 289 pp.
3.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Pub.Haworth Herbal Press, 287 pp.
Epimedium brevicornu (YIN YANG HUO) epimedium herb {R17}
This herb has a traditional role in treating arthralgia, high blood pressure and angina pectoris (1,2). It
is also believed to have oestrogenic activity and could be useful in management of menopausal
symptoms (3,4).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Zhang C.Z., Wang S.X., Zhang Y., Chen J.P. & Liang X.M. (2005) In vitro estrogenic activities of Chinese
medicinal plants traditionally used for the management of menopausal symptoms. J Ethnopharmacol., 98(3):
295-300.
4.De Naeyer A., Pocock V., Milligan S. & De Keukeleire D. (2005) Estrogenic activity of a polyphenolic extract
of the leaves of Epimedium brevicornum. Fitoterapia, 76(1): 35-40.
Epimedium koreanum (YIN YANG HUO) {R6}
Extracts of Epimedium koreanum are used in traditional Korean medicine for improvement of memory
and cognition in old age. Tests for cholinesterase inhibitory properties demonstrated significant
inhibition (1).
1.Oh M.H., Houghton P.J., Whang W.K. & Cho J.H. (2004) Screening of Korean herbal medicines used to
improve cognitive function for anti-cholinesterase activity. Phytomedicine, 11(6): 544-548.
Epimedium sagittatum (YIN YANG HUO) horny goat weed {R15}
This plant is said to reduce blood pressure, lower blood sugar, act as an antiasthmatic and stimulate the
sensory nerves to increase sexual desire (1). Epimedium sagittatum contains a number of flavonoids,
some of which show oestrogen-inhibiting properties in vitro (2). These hormonal actions may partly
explain why E. sagittatum has been used traditionally to treat sexual disorders, and why it has shown
efficacy for improving sex drive in clinical trials of patients with kidney failure (3). Other flavonoids
in this herb, such as ‘icariin’, appear to stimulate the cells (osteoblasts) that build bone (4). Rodents
given flavonoid extracts were protected against osteoporosis (5). A number of flavonoids showed
effects on the immune system that were both stimulating and suppressing depending on circumstances
in vitro (6). Preliminary human trials in people with kidney disease undergoing dialysis confirm that E.
sagittatum can improve the function of various parts of the immune system (7). A combination of E.
sagittatum with other herbs has been shown to inhibit inflammation in animals (8). This may explain
its use in early studies in formulas to treat hay-fever (9). Water extracts of E. sagittatum have also
reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels in several animal species (10). E. sagittatum products
are widely available over the counter in Australia.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Yap S.P., Shen P., Butler M.S., Gong Y., Loy C.J. & Yong E.L. (2005) New estrogenic prenylflavone from
Epimedium brevicornum inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells. Planta Med., 71: 114-119.
3.Liao H.J., Chen X.M. & Li W.G. (1995) Effect of Epimedium sagittatum on quality of life and cellular
immunity in patients of hemodialysis maintenance. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 15: 202-204.
4.Meng F.H., Li Y.B., Xiong Z.L., Jiang Z.M. & Li F.M. (2005) Osteoblastic proliferative activity of Epimedium
brevicornum Maxim. Phytomedicine, 12: 189-193.
5.Chen K.M., Ge B.F., Ma H.P. & Zheng R.L. (2004) The serum of rats administered flavonoid extract from
Epimedium sagittatum but not the extract itself enhances the development of rat calvarial osteoblast-like cells in
vitro. Pharmazie, 59: 61-64.
6.Liang H.R., Vuorela P., Vuorela H. & Hiltunen R. (1997) Isolation and immunomodulatory effect of flavonol
glycosides from Epimedium hunanense. Planta Med., 63: 316-319.
59
7.Chen X., Zhou M. & Wang J. (1995) Effect of Epimedium sagittatum on soluble IL-2 receptor and IL-6 levels
in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Zhonghua Nei Ke Za Zhi., 34: 102-104.
8.Wei R.B., Huo H.R., Li X.Q., Zhou A.X., Shen H. & Tian J. (2002) Study on antiinflammatory effect of a
compound TCM agent containing ant extractive in animal models. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 27: 215-216.
9.Yu Y.J. (1989) Effect of tian-huang-ling granule in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi
., 9: 708, 720-721.
10.Chen J.K. & Chen T.T. (2004) Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry, CA: Art of
Medicine Press.
Eriobotrya japonica (PI PA YE) loquat
An existing crop in Australia. Extracts from the leaves have been linked to antitumour and
antiinflammatory effects (1,2,3).
1.Banno N., Akihisa T., Tokuda H., Yasukawa K., Taguchi Y., Akazawa H., Ukiya M., Kimura Y., Suzuki T. &
Nishino H. (2005) Anti-inflammatory and antitumor-promoting effects of the triterpene acids from the leaves of
Eriobotrya japonica. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(10): 1995-1999.
2.Ito H., Kobayashi E., Li S.H., Hatano T., Sugita D., Kubo N., Shimura S., Itoh Y., Tokuda H., Nishino H. &
Yoshida T. (2002) Antitumor activity of compounds isolated from leaves of Eriobotrya japonica. J Agric Food
Chem., 50(8): 2400-2403.
3.Ito H., Kobayashi E., Takamatsu Y., Li S.H., Hatano T., Sakagami H., Kusama K., Satoh K., Sugita D.,
Shimura S., Itoh Y. & Yoshida T. (2000) Polyphenols from Eriobotrya japonica and their cytotoxicity against
human oral tumor cell lines. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 48(5): 687-693.
Erysimum cheiranthoides (TANG JIE) wormseed mustard {R7}
The seeds contain several glycosides, some of which are similar to digitalis (1,2). Glycosides from
Erysimum cheiranthoides were evaluated for their inhibitory activity against Na+,K(+)-ATPase
through a comparison with typical cardiac glycosides (3). Two of them, cheiranthoside III and VIII,
showed high inhibiting activity which was equivalent to that of digitoxin.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Lei Z.H., Yahara S., Nohara T., Tai B.S., Xiong J.Z. & Ma Y.L. (2000) Cardiac glycosides from Erysimum
cheiranthoides. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 48(2): 290-292.
3.Lei Z.H., Kuniyasu A., Tai B.S., Nakayama H. & Nohara T. (2001) Na+,K(+)-ATPase inhibiting activity of
cardiac glycosides from Erysimum cheiranthoides. Planta Med., 67(4): 369-370.
Erythrina variegata (HAI TONG PI) coral tree {R26}
This species occurs throughout the Pacific, Asia, Africa and is also indigenous to northern Australia
(1). Compounds have shown activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (2,3).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Sato M., Tanaka H., Yamaguchi R., Kato K. & Etoh H. (2004) Synergistic effects of mupirocin and an
isoflavanone isolated from Erythrina variegata on growth and recovery of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus. Int J Antimicrob Agents., 24(3): 241-246.
3.Tanaka H., Sato M., Fujiwara S., Hirata M., Etoh H. & Takeuchi H. (2002) Antibacterial activity of
isoflavonoids isolated from Erythrina variegata against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Lett Appl
Microbiol., 35(6): 494-498.
Eucommia ulmoides (DU ZHONG) eucommia, gutta-percha tree or tochu {R20}
Historically an active ingredient commonly used in antihypertensive herbal prescriptions in China
(1,2). A study in 2003 using isometric contraction of isolated rat aortic and dog carotid rings, claims to
have provided the first evidence for in vitro vasorelaxant action of Eucommia ulmoides, thus
confirming the pharmacological basis for its use as an antihypertensive agent (3). More recent work
confirmed that E. ulmoides extract was non-toxic and effective in reducing systolic blood pressure in
spontaneous hypertensive rats (4).
E. ulmoides leaves are also used as a folk remedy for treatment of diabetes. Flavonol glycosides with
glycation inhibitory activity could be responsible for this antidiabetic action (5). A study which
investigated whether the leaves could improve hyperglycaemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
found that it significantly lowered blood glucose levels (6).
In Japan, the aqueous extract of E. ulmoides leaves (Tochu tea) is a popular beverage that may reduce
human exposure to dietary mutagens (7). In Australia there have been previous attempts to grow this
plant but it is not a current commercial crop (8).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
60
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Kwan C.Y., Chen C.X., Deyama T. & Nishibe S. (2003) Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant effects of the
aqueous extracts of the Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. leaf and bark: implications on their antihypertensive action.
Vascul Pharmacol., 40(5): 229-235.
4.Lang C., Liu Z., Taylor H.W. & Baker D.G. (2005) Effect of Eucommia ulmoides on systolic blood pressure in
the spontaneous hypertensive rat. Am J Chin Med., 33(2): 215-230.
5.Kim H.Y., Moon B.H., Lee H.J. & Choi D.H. (2004) Flavonol glycosides from the leaves of Eucommia
ulmoides O. with glycation inhibitory activity. J Ethnopharmacol., 93(2-3): 227-230.
6.Lee M.K., Kim M.J., Cho S.Y., Park S.A., Park K.K., Jung U.J., Park H.M. & Choi M.S. (2005) Hypoglycemic
effect of Du-zhong (Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.) leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes Res Clin
Pract., 67(1): 22-28.
7.Sasaki Y.F., Chiba A., Murakami M., Sekihashi K., Tanaka M., Takahoko M., Moribayashi S., Kudou C., Hara
Y., Nakazawa Y., Nakamura T. & Onizuka S. (1996) Antimutagenicity of Tochu tea (an aqueous extract of
Eucommia ulmoides leaves): 2. Suppressing effect of Tochu tea on the urine mutagenicity after ingestion of raw
fish and cooked beef. Mutat Res., 371(3-4): 203-214.
8.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Euonymus alatus (WEI MAO or GUI JIAN YU) burning bush or winged euonymus {R12}
Euonymus alatus has been used in Asian countries as a folk medicine for regulating blood circulation,
relieving pain (including angina pectoris), eliminating blood clots, treating dysmenorrhea and for
tumour therapy (1,2). Anecdotal accounts also suggested antihyperglycaemic activity by enhancing
insulin secretion and this has received recent experimental support. A study investigated the preventive
effect of 50% ethanol extract of this plant in high fat, diet induced hyperglycaemic and
hyperlipidaemic mice (3). The extract reduced plasma glucose and lipid levels, and reduced the
deposition of triglyceride in the liver.
More recent investigation of this species has focussed on anticancer potential. Uterine leiomyomal
(tumour) cells treated with E. alatus exhibited a much lower proliferation rate than untreated cells (4).
Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 is known to be involved in promoting tumour cell invasion and
metastasis. In one study, a phenolic compound with possible anti-MMP-9 activity was isolated from
methanol extracts prepared from E. alatus stem bark (5). The compound was identified as ‘chlorogenic
acid’ and showed strong inhibitory effect of MMP-9 activity in vitro. Other work confirms the
therapeutic potential of compounds from this plant and suggests that the antimetastatic and antitumour
effects are mediated partly through selective suppression of MMP-9 (6,7).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chung H.S., Jeong H.J., Kim J.S., Jeong S.I., Kim K.S., Kim K.S., Kang B.K., Ahn J.W., Baek S.H. & Kim
H.M. (2002) Activation of inducible nitric oxide synthase by Euonymus alatus in mouse peritoneal macrophages.
Clin Chim Acta., 318(1-2): 113-120.
3.Park S.H., Ko S.K. & Chung S.H. (2005) Euonymus alatus prevents the hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia
induced by high-fat diet in ICR mice. J Ethnopharmacol., 102(3): 326-335.
4.Lee T.K., Lee J.Y., Kim D.I., Lee Y.C. & Kim C.H. (2005) Differential regulation of protein kinase C activity
by modulating factors and Euonymus alatus (Thunb.) Sieb in human myometrial and uterine leiomyomal smooth
muscle cells. Int J Gynecol Cancer., 15(2): 349-358.
5.Jin U.H., Lee J.Y., Kang S.K., Kim J.K., Park W.H., Kim J.G., Moon S.K. & Kim CH. (2005) A phenolic
compound, 5-caffeoylquinic acid (chlorogenic acid), is a new type and strong matrix metalloproteinase-9
inhibitor: isolation and identification from methanol extract of Euonymus alatus. Life Sci., 77(22): 2760-2769.
6.Chung T.W., Moon S.K., Chang Y.C., Ko J.H., Lee Y.C., Cho G., Kim S.H., Kim J.G. & Kim C.H. (2004)
Novel and therapeutic effect of caffeic acid and caffeic acid phenyl ester on hepatocarcinoma cells: complete
regression of hepatoma growth and metastasis by dual mechanism. FASEB J., 18(14): 1670-1681.
7.Park W.H., Kim S.H. & Kim C.H. (2005) A new matrix metalloproteinase-9 inhibitor 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic
acid (caffeic acid) from methanol extract of Euonymus alatus: isolation and structure determination. Toxicology,
207(3): 383-390.
Eupatorium spp. (PEI LAN) eupatorium {R7}
Primarily found in Taiwan but a number of species from this genus also grow in China and several
have been linked with antitumour activity (1,2). However, efficacy assessments have tended to be
based on in vitro trials (1). A 2004 report suggested that there was potential for production of
Eupatorium purpureum in Australia (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Lee K.H., Huang H.C., Huang E.S. & Furukawa H. (1972) Antitumor agents. II. Eupatolide, a new cytotoxic
principle from Eupatorium formosanum HAY. J Pharm Sci., 61(4): 629-631.
3.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
61
Euphorbia lathyris (QIAN JIN ZI) caper euphorbia, caper spurge or mole plant {R8}
Caper spurge seed oil contains a series of diterpenoids (1). In one trial, seed extract showed antitumour activity against Sarcoma 180 ascites in mice (2). However, there have been concerns that some
of the chemical components are co-carcinogens (3).
1.Bicchi C., Appendino G., Cordero C., Rubiolo P., Ortelli D. & Veuthey J.L. (2001) HPLC-UV and HPLCpositive-ESI-MS analysis of the diterpenoid fraction from caper spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) seed oil. Phytochem
Anal., 12(4): 255-262.
2.Itokawa H., Ichihara Y., Watanabe K. & Takeya K. (1989) An antitumor principle from Euphorbia lathyris.
Planta Med., 55(3): 271-272.
3.Bissell M.J., Nemethy E.K., Riddle L. & Calvin M. (1981) Testing for tumor promoters in Euphorbia lathyris:
analysis of possible health hazards. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol., 27(6): 894-902.
Euryale ferox (QIAN SHI) euryale, foxnut, gorgon or makhana {R6}
Euryale fed to BALB/c mice stimulated humoral immunity (1). Another study reported significant
antioxidant activity mediated by specific components in ethyl acetate and butanol fractions (2).
1.Puri A., Sahai R., Singh K.L., Saxena R.P., Tandon J.S. & Saxena K.C. (2000) Immunostimulant activity of dry
fruits and plant materials used in Indian traditional medical system for mothers after child birth and invalids. J
Ethnopharmacol., 71(1-2): 89-92.
2.Lee S.E., Ju E.M. & Kim J.H. (2002) Antioxidant activity of extracts from Euryale ferox seed. Exp Mol Med.,
34(2): 100-106.
Eurycoma longifolia [Malaysia- TONGKAT ALI] Malaysian ginseng {R23}
There are more than 200 Eurycoma longifolia products on the market for uses including- energy and
stamina enhancement, blood circulation improvement and source of antioxidant (1). The roots are used
as a traditional medicine to treat malaria and modern research has supported these antimalarial claims.
Three quassinoids from the roots were evaluated for antimalarial activity against nine Plasmodium
falciparum isolates obtained from patients infected with chloroquine-resistant malaria (2). Results
indicated that eurycomanol, eurycomanol 2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, and 13 beta, 18dihydroeurycomanol possessed antimalarial activity.
Many of this plant’s compounds have been conjointly tested for antimalarial function and cytotoxicity.
Five cytotoxic constituents characterised from the roots were evaluated against a panel of cell-lines
comprising a number of human cancer types (3). Significant activity against the cell-lines was
observed, and two compounds were found to demonstrate significant antimalarial activity as judged by
studies conducted with cultured Plasmodium falciparum strains. In recent work, compounds were
isolated from the roots of E. longifolia and screened in vitro assays (4). Eight compounds
demonstrated strong cytotoxicity toward human lung cancer cell-lines and seven exhibited strong
cytoxicity toward human breast cancer cell-lines. Two compounds displayed potent antimalarial
activity against resistant Plasmodium falciparum (4). Further studies report cytotoxicity against human
cancer cell-lines (5,6).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Ang H.H., Chan K.L. & Mak J.W. (1995) In vitro antimalarial activity of quassinoids from Eurycoma
longifolia against Malaysian chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum isolates. Planta Med., 61(2): 177-178.
3.Kardono L.B., Angerhofer C.K., Tsauri S., Padmawinata K., Pezzuto J.M. & Kinghorn A.D. (1991)
Cytotoxic and antimalarial constituents of the roots of Eurycoma longifolia. J Nat Prod., 54(5): 1360-1367.
4.Kuo P.C., Damu A.G., Lee K.H. & Wu T.S. (2004) Cytotoxic and antimalarial constituents from the roots of
Eurycoma longifolia. Bioorg Med Chem., 12(3): 537-544.
5.Kuo P.C., Shi L.S., Damu A.G., Su C.R., Huang C.H., Ke C.H., Wu J.B., Lin A.J., Bastow K.F., Lee K.H. &
Wu T.S. (2003) Cytotoxic and antimalarial beta-carboline alkaloids from the roots of Eurycoma longifolia. J Nat
Prod., 66(10): 1324-1327.
6.Tee T.T. & Azimahtol H.L. (2005) Induction of apoptosis by Eurycoma longifolia jack extracts. Anticancer
Res., 25(3B): 2205-2213.
Evodia rutaecarpa (WU ZHU YU) {R29}
This herb is prescribed for hypertension (1). Vasorelaxant and hypotensive effects have been reported
in animal studies (2,3,4,5). ‘Evodiamine’, the major alkaloidal component of the dried, unripe fruit
exerted a protective effect against myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats (6). Other
cardiotonic effects are reported (7). Evodiamine also halted proliferation and induced apoptosis in
human cancer cell-lines (8,9).
62
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Chiou W.F., Chou C.J., Liao J.F., Sham A.Y. & Chen C.F. (1994) The mechanism of the vasodilator effect of
rutaecarpine, an alkaloid isolated from Evodia rutaecarpa. Eur J Pharmacol., 257(1-2): 59-66.
3.Chiou W.F., Liao J.F. & Chen C.F. (1996) Comparative study of the vasodilatory effects of three quinazoline
alkaloids isolated from Evodia rutaecarpa. J Nat Prod., 59(4): 374-378.
4.Chiou W.F., Liao J.F., Shum A.Y. & Chen C.F. (1996) Mechanisms of vasorelaxant effect of
dehydroevodiamine: a bioactive isoquinazolinocarboline alkaloid of plant origin. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol.,
27(6): 845-853.
5.Chiou W.F., Shum A.Y., Liao J.F. & Chen C.F. (1997) Studies of the cellular mechanisms underlying the
vasorelaxant effects of rutaecarpine, a bioactive component extracted from an herbal drug. J Cardiovasc
Pharmacol., 29(4): 490-498.
6.Rang W.Q., Du Y.H., Hu C.P., Ye F., Xu K.P., Peng J., Deng H.W. & Li Y.J. (2004) Protective effects of
evodiamine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Planta Med., 70(12): 1140-1143.
7.Kobayashi Y., Hoshikuma K., Nakano Y., Yokoo Y. & Kamiya T. (2001) The positive inotropic and
chronotropic effects of evodiamine and rutaecarpine, indoloquinazoline alkaloids isolated from the fruits of
Evodia rutaecarpa, on the guinea-pig isolated right atria: possible involvement of vanilloid receptors. Planta
Med., 67(3): 244-248.
8.Zhang Y., Wu L.J., Tashiro S., Onodera S. & Ikejima T. (2004) Evodiamine induces tumor cell death through
different pathways: apoptosis and necrosis. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 25(1): 83-89.
9.Fei X.F., Wang B.X., Li T.J., Tashiro S., Minami M., Xing de J.& Ikejima T. (2003) Evodiamine, a constituent
of Evodiae Fructus, induces anti-proliferating effects in tumor cells. Cancer Sci., 94(1): 92-98.
Fallopia multiflora (HE SHOU WU) Chinese knotweed, fleece flower, polygonum or fo ti {R24}
The processed root is commonly used in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia in traditional Chinese
medicine and is believed to help prevent atherosclerosis (1,2,3). Lowered plasma cholesterol levels are
achieved by reducing intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol (1). Effective rates in the treatment of
hypercholesterolaemia are reported at 62 to 82% (1). Dosages of 12 g per day significantly lowered
serum cholesterol in 62% of patients (4). Fallopia multiflora also helped prevent development of
atherosclerotic lesions in rabbits fed cholesterol (4). In recent work, a water-soluble fraction of this
plant was administered to rabbits fed a high cholesterol diet (5). Treatment of the rabbits attenuated the
increase in plasma cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein
cholesterol, and plasma triglyceride; and decreased atherosclerotic lesioned area. It was concluded that
the herbal treatment was a powerful agent against atherosclerosis (5).
In the last six years, F. multiflora has been the focus of several rodent experiments that have
demonstrated its brain protective capacity (6,7,8,9,10). It is generally concluded that this plant has
great applicative value in prevention and treatment of senile neuropathies, such as Alzheimer's disease,
Parkinson's disease and vascular dementia (11).
F. multiflora has been identified as a potential new crop for Australia (12). In Australia, there have
been previous attempts to grow this plant but it is not a current commercial crop (13). It is a perennial
climber growing to 4.5 m and member of the family Polygonaceae. In China, the roots are harvested in
autumn, preferably from plants 3 to 4 years old, and are usually dried for later use. This plant will
tolerate a range of soil types and soil pH, preferring a moisture retentive not too fertile soil in sun or
part shade. This species is hardy to at least -15°C. Sometimes the root is repeatedly washed to leech
out bitterness; the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Traditional administration: 10 to 30 g of the
tuberous root decocted in water for internal use (14). Or, 4 to 8 g/day of the dried root or 8 to 16
ml/day of 1:2 fluid extract (2). Higher doses for lowering cholesterol.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
3.Yin J.H., Zhou X.Y. & Zhu X.Q. (1992) Pharmacological and clinical studies on the processed products of
radix Polygoni multiflori. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 17(12): 722-4, 762-3.
4.Chang H.M. & But P.P. (1987) Pharmacology & Applications of Chinese materia Medica, Vol 2, Pub.- World
Scientific, Singapore.
5.Yang P.Y., Almofti M.R., Lu L., Kang H., Zhang J., Li T.J., Rui Y.C., Sun L.N. & Chen W.S. (2005)
Reduction of atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed rabbits and decrease of expressions of intracellular adhesion
molecule-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor in foam cells by a water-soluble fraction of Polygonum
multiflorum. J Pharmacol Sci., 99(3): 294-300.
6.Li M., Du X.P. & Ye H. (2003) Protective effect of Polygonum multiflorum thunb on the cerebral cholinergic
neurofibers in rats. Hunan Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao., 28(4): 361-364.
7.Chan Y.C., Wang M.F. & Chang H.C. (2003) Polygonum multiflorum extracts improve cognitive performance
in senescence accelerated mice. Am J Chin Med., 31(2): 171-179.
63
8.Chan Y.C., Cheng F.C. & Wang M.F. (2002) Beneficial effects of different Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.
extracts on memory and hippocampus morphology. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. (Tokyo), 48(6): 491-497.
9.Um M.Y., Choi W.H., Aan J.Y., Kim S.R. & Ha T.Y. (2006) Protective effect of Polygonum multiflorum
Thunb on amyloid beta-peptide 25-35 induced cognitive deficits in mice. J Ethnopharmacol., 104(1-2): 144-148.
10.Li X., Matsumoto K., Murakami Y., Tezuka Y., Wu Y. & Kadota S. (2005) Neuroprotective effects of
Polygonum multiflorum on nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration induced by paraquat and maneb in mice.
Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 82(2): 345-352.
11.Wang W. & Wang D.Q. (2005) Progress of study on brain protective effect and mechanism of Polygonum
multiflorum. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 25(10): 955-959.
12.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
13.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
14.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Firmiana simplex (WU TONG) Chinese parasol tree, Chinese bottle tree, Japanese varnish tree,
phoenix tree or aogiri {R6}
The alcoholic extract of Firmiana simplex can reduce plasma cholesterol levels but does not affect
triglyceride levels; it has a vasodilating effect, increases coronary flow and lowers peripheral blood
pressure (1). ‘Firmianones A and B’ from the roots exhibited moderate cytotoxicity to the P388 cancer
cell-line (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Bai H., Li S., Yin F. & Hu L. (2005) Isoprenylated naphthoquinone dimers firmianones A, B, and C from
Firmiana platanifolia. J Nat Prod., 68(8): 1159-1163.
Forsythia suspensa (LIAN QIAO) forsythia, weeping forsythia or goldenbells {R15}
Forsythia suspensa has been used widely in traditional medicines to treat gonorrhea, erysipelas,
inflammation, pyrexia and ulcer. It has also shown antioxidant activity, as well as antibacterial,
antiviral, choleretic and antiemetic effects (1). Antiinflammatory activity of extracts and fractions from
the dried fruit has been demonstrated in rats (2,3). This antiinflammatory action may be explained in
part by the plant’s antioxidant properties (4).
1.Li H.B. & Chen F. (2005) Preparative isolation and purification of phillyrin from the medicinal plant Forsythia
suspensa by high-speed counter-current chromatography. J Chromatogr A., 1083(1-2): 102-105.
2.Ozaki Y., Rui J., Tang Y. & Satake M. (1997) Antiinflammatory effect of Forsythia suspensa Vahl and its
active fraction. Biol Pharm Bull., 20(8): 861-864.
3.Ozaki Y., Rui J. & Tang Y.T. (2000) Antiinflammatory effect of Forsythia suspensa V(AHL) and its active
principle. Biol Pharm Bull., 23(3): 365-367.
4.Schinella G.R., Tournier H.A., Prieto J.M., Mordujovich de Buschiazzo P. & Rios J.L. (2002)
Antioxidant activity of anti-inflammatory plant extracts. Life Sci., 70(9):1023-1033.
Fraxinus chinensis subsp. rhynchophylla (QIN PI) northern ash {R5}
Bioassay-guided fractionation of an aqueous extract of the bark of this plant furnished two inducible
nitric oxide synthase inhibitory compounds (‘ferulaldehyde’ and ‘scopoletin’) together with a
coumarin (‘fraxidin’) (1). Ferulaldehyde and scopoletin showed inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis in a
dose-dependent manner by murine macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with interferongamma plus lipopolysaccharide. The inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis of ferulaldehyde was reflected
in a decreased amount of inducible nitric oxide synthase protein (1).
1.Kim N.Y., Pae H.O., Ko Y.S., Yoo J.C., Choi B.M., Jun C.D., Chung H.T., Inagaki M., Higuchi R. & Kim
Y.C. (1999) In vitro inducible nitric oxide synthesis inhibitory active constituents from Fraxinus rhynchophylla.
Planta Med., 65(7): 656-658.
Fritillaria cirrhosa (CHUAN BEI MU) Sichuan fritillary or tendrilled fritillary {R7}
Traditionally used to lower blood pressure (1). Limited research and better alternatives would seem to
be available.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
Fritillaria delavayi (SUO SHA BEI MU) {R3}
Antiinflammatory, expectorant and bacteriostatic effects are reported for tests in vitro and on mice but
this species is not as effective as Fritillaria pallidiflora (1). Unlikely to be important for treating
Australian health issues.
1.Xu H.B., Sun X.B., Wen F.C., Zhou J.H., Ding T., Sun L.W. & Li Y. (2000) An preliminary comparative study
on physiological activity of Fritillaria pallidiflora Schrek. and F. delavayi Franch. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi.,
25(7): 391-394.
64
Fritillaria pallidiflora (YI BEI MU) Sinkiang fritillaria {R10}
Antiinflammatory, expectorant and bacteriostatic effects are reported for tests in vitro and on mice (1).
Limited research.
1.Xu H.B., Sun X.B., Wen F.C., Zhou J.H., Ding T., Sun L.W. & Li Y. (2000) An preliminary comparative study
on physiological activity of Fritillaria pallidiflora Schrek. and F. delavayi Franch. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi.,
25(7): 391-394.
Fritillaria thunbergii (ZHE BEI MU) fritillary or Thunberg fritillary {R9}
Traditionally used to lower blood pressure (1) and to treat gastritis-like disorders (2). The main
pharmacologically active phytochemicals are steroidal alkaloids (3). Infection by Helicobacter pylori
has been ascertained to be an important etiologic impetus leading usually to chronic active gastritis
and gastric ulcer. In a trial that utilised five clinic strains of Helicobacter pylori, the antibacterial
action of 30 Chinese herbal medicines was assessed in vitro. Aqueous extracts derived from Cassia
obtusifolia, Fritillaria thunbergii and Eugenia caryophyllata were strongly inhibitory against all six
Helicobacter strains (2). Other work points to strong antibacterial activity with fritillary in the top five
of 80 plants tested (4).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Li Y., Xu C., Zhang Q., Liu J.Y. & Tan R.X. (2005) In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori action of 30 Chinese
herbal medicines used to treat ulcer diseases. J Ethnopharmacol., 98(3): 329-333.
3.Ding K., Lin G., Ho Y.P., Cheng T.Y. & Li P. (1996) Prederivatization and high-performance liquid
chromatographic analysis of alkaloids of bulbs of Fritillaria. J Pharm Sci., 85(11): 1174-1179.
4.Kim S.W., Chang I.M. & Oh K.B. (2002) Inhibition of the bacterial surface protein anchoring transpeptidase
sortase by medicinal plants. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem., 66(12): 2751-2754.
Ganoderma lucidum (LING ZHI) reishi mushroom {R22}
Reishi mushrooms grow wild on decaying logs and tree stumps in the coastal provinces of China. The
fruiting body of the mushroom is employed medicinally. Reishi grows in six different colours but the
red variety is most commonly used and commercially cultivated in China, North America, Japan,
Taiwan and Korea.
Reishi contains several major constituents, including triterpenoids called ‘ganoderic acids’. Reishi
triterpenoids have been shown to lower plasma cholesterol and phospholipid levels, helping to prevent
atherosclerotic changes in the arterial wall (1). These triterpenoids also help reduce blood platelets
from sticking together, an important factor in lowering the risk for coronary artery disease. Two
controlled clinical trials have investigated the effects of reishi on high blood pressure in humans and
both found it could lower blood pressure significantly compared to a placebo or controls (2,3). It
increases myocardiac contractility and systolic volume, and can improve cardiac function (1).
A recent review concluded that investigations into the anticancer activity of reishi (performed in both
in vitro and in vivo studies), support its application for cancer treatment and prevention (4). It is
estimated that more than 30% of pediatric cancer patients in China are taking reishi (5). Cellular
immune responses and mitogenic reactivity of cancer patients have been enhanced by reishi, as
reported in two randomised and one non-randomised trial, and the quality-of-life of 65% of lung
cancer patients improved in one study. Direct cytotoxic and antiangiogenesis mechanisms have also
been established by in vitro studies. At present, reishi is a health food supplement to support cancer
patients but evidence supporting the potential of direct in vivo anticancer effects should not be
underestimated; clinical studies are needed to define the applicable dosage in vivo (4).
Unfortunately, because this fungus is a root rot organism, introduction to Australia could place tree
crops (forestry and horticulture) at risk (6). Some native Ganoderma species are under investigation.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Kammatsuse K., Kajiware N. & Hayashi K. (1985) Studies on Ganoderma lucidum: I. Efficacy against
hypertension and side effects. Yakugaku Zasshi, 105: 531-533.
3.Jin H., Zhang G. & Cao X. (1996) Treatment of hypertension by ling zhi combined with hypotensor and its
effects on arterial, arteriolar and capillary pressure and microcirculation, pp. 131-138. In, Nimmi H., Xiu R.J.,
Sawada T., Zheng C. (Eds.) ‘Microcirculatory Approach to Asian Traditional Medicine’. Pub.- New York
Elsevier Science.
4.Yuen J.W. & Gohel M.D. (2005) Anticancer Effects of Ganoderma lucidum: A Review of Scientific Evidence.
Nutr Cancer., 53(1): 11-17.
5.Chan W.K., Lam D.T., Law H.K., Wong W.T., Leung Koo M.W., Lau A.S., Lau Y.L. & Chan G.C.
(2005) Ganoderma lucidum Mycelium and Spore Extracts as Natural Adjuvants for Immunotherapy. J Altern
Complement Med., 11(6): 1047-1057.
6.Caroline Mohammed - pers.comm.
65
Garcinia gummi-guta [India- GAMBOOGE] citrin, Malabar tamarind or Brindall berry {R11}
Native to South India and South-East Asia, and historically used in the Ayurvedic treatment of obesity
(1). Has gained recent attention as a popular natural weight loss aid. Obesity is associated with an
increased risk for type II diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, biliary disease, obstructive
sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer (2). The rind of this pumpkin-like fruit is rich in ‘hydroxy
citric acid’, or HCA, which is used in weight loss formulations. HCA is believed to block the
conversion of sugary foods and starches into fats but may also inhibit appetite by effecting certain
brain chemicals. In vitro HCA has beneficial effects on fat metabolism, and animal studies have
demonstrated appetite suppression and weight reduction (3). Some reports of human trials do not
support the effectiveness of HCA in weight loss (eg. 4), however, other human trials have
demonstrated benefits (eg. 5). A recent extensive review concluded that evidence for most dietary
supplements as aids in reducing body weight was not convincing with none of the reviewed dietary
supplements (including Garcinia) recommended for over-the-counter use (6). However, in their latest
work these authors conclude that unlike many other products, those based on Garcinia are associated
with the least number of health risks and this plant merits further investigation (7).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Joyal S.V. (2004) A perspective on the current strategies for the treatment of obesity. Curr Drug Targets CNS
Neurol Disord., 3(5): 341-356.
3.Pinn G. (2005) Herbal medicine in endocrinology and metabolic disease, pp. 383-398. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach
U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
4.Heymsfield S.B., Allison D.B., Vasselli J.R., Pietrobelli A., Greenfield D. & Nunez C. (1998) Garcinia
cambogia (hydroxycitric acid) as a potential antiobesity agent: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA., 280(18):
1596-1600.
5.Mattes R.D. & Bormann L. (2000) Effects of (-)-hydroxycitric acid on appetitive variables. Physiol Behav.,
71(1-2): 87-94.
6.Pittler M.H. & Ernst E. (2004) Dietary supplements for body-weight reduction: a systematic review. Am J Clin
Nutr., 79(4): 529-36.
7.Pittler M.H., Schmidt K. & Ernst E. (2005) Adverse events of herbal food supplements for body weight
reduction: systematic review. Obes Rev., 6(2): 93-111.
Garcinia mangostana - mangosteen {R12}
This species has been used in Thai indigenous medicine for many years and is a relatively new crop in
parts of northern Australia. In a recent study, aqueous and ethanolic extracts of 10 traditional Thai
medicinal plants were investigated for their ability to inhibit 35 hospital isolates of methicillin resistant
Staphylococcus aureus. Nine medicinal plants displayed activity against all isolates tested and the
ethanolic extract of Garcinia mangostana was one of three that were most effective (1). In other work,
‘alpha-Mangostin’, isolated from the stem bark of G. mangostana was found to be active against
methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (2).
This plant has also demonstrated antiproliferation activity. Ethanolic extracts of nine Thai medicinal
plants were tested for antiproliferative activity in SKBR3 human breast adenocarcinoma cell-line, and
G. mangostana showed the most potent activity (3). Six xanthones from the pericarps of mangosteen
were examined for effects on cell growth inhibition of human leukaemia cell-line HL60, and all
displayed growth inhibitory effects (4). Another trial extracted and purified six xanthone compounds
from rinds of mangosteen fruit and tested their cytotoxic effect on a panel of 14 different human
cancer cell-lines including six of hepatoma (5). Several commonly used chemotherapeutic agents were
included in the assay to determine the relative potency of the potential new drugs. Results showed that
one of the xanthone derivatives (‘garcinone E’) had potent cytotoxic effects on all human cancer celllines (5). However, it seems that the anticancer potential of G. mangostana needs better support from
in vivo studies. This species is a good example of one that could be supported as an increased dietary
component (it is safe and tastes good) even though the evidence is not absolute.
1.Voravuthikuncahi S.P. & Kitpipit L. (2005) Activity of medicinal plant extracts against hospital isolates of
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Clin Microbiol Infect., 11(6): 510-512.
2.Sakagami Y., Iinuma M., Piyasena K.G. & Dharmaratne H.R. (2005) Antibacterial activity of alpha-mangostin
against vancomycin resistant Enterococci (VRE) and synergism with antibiotics. Phytomedicine, 12(3): 203-208.
3.Moongkarndi P., Kosem N., Luanratana O., Jongsomboonkusol S. & Pongpan N. (2004) Antiproliferative
activity of Thai medicinal plant extracts on human breast adenocarcinoma cell line. Fitoterapia, 75(3-4): 375377.
66
4.Matsumoto K., Akao Y., Kobayashi E., Ohguchi K., Ito T., Tanaka T., Iinuma M. & Nozawa Y.
(2003) Induction of apoptosis by xanthones from mangosteen in human leukemia cell lines. J Nat Prod., 66(8):
1124-1127.
5.Ho C.K., Huang Y.L. & Chen C.C. (2002) Garcinone E, a xanthone derivative, has potent cytotoxic effect
against hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Planta Med., 68(11): 975-979.
Gardenia jasminoides (ZHI ZI) gardenia
Grown commercially as an ornamental plant in Australia. Traditionally used for properties including antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, hypotensive, laxative and sedative (1). Gardenia fruit have also
been widely used in Chinese medicine to treat liver and gall bladder disorders. Antiinflammatory (2)
and antithrombotic effects (3) have also been reported. It has been shown recently that ‘geniposide’,
the main ingredient of Gardenia Fructus, exhibits antitumour effects (4).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Yao Q., Zhou G., Zhu Y., Pan Y., Hu J., Xue H. & Zhang Q. (1991) Screening studies on anti-inflammatory
function of traditional Chinese herb Gardenia jasminoides Ellis and its possibility in treating soft tissue injuries
in animals. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 16(8): 489-93, 513.
3.Suzuki Y., Kondo K., Ikeda Y. & Umemura K. (2001) Antithrombotic effect of geniposide and genipin in the
mouse thrombosis model. Planta Med., 67(9): 807-810.
4.Peng C.H., Huang C.N. & Wang C.J. (2005) The anti-tumor effect and mechanisms of action of penta-acetyl
geniposide. Curr Cancer Drug Targets, 5(4): 299-305.
Gastrodia elata (TIAN MA) tall gastrodia orchid {R23}
This species is now rare in the wild, due to over-collection as a medicinal plant (1). Gastrodia elata
has been used traditionally for the treatment of convulsive diseases such as epilepsy in oriental
countries and still occupies an important place in traditional medicine there. Also used to alleviate
headaches and dizziness. Most of the recent research on this species and determination of medical
efficacy has focussed on animals but some convincing findings have been made. G. elata active
components and preparations have anticonvulsive and free radical scavenging activity (2,3);
neuroprotective activity (4,5,6,7); and, memory consolidation and retrieval functions (8). The ethyl
ether fraction of G. elata contained one or more compounds that dramatically reduced amyloid betapeptide induced neuronal cell death in vitro, suggesting potential as an antidementia agent
(Alzheimer's disease is associated with cell death in neuronal cells) (9). Evidence from at least one
human double-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial of stroke victims showed improvement in
vascular dementia after taking gastrodine, an extract from the tuber (10).
This orchid which grows to approximately 1 m, is a saprophytic herb without green parts; it is
dependent upon a fungus for its nutriment. This makes it difficult to cultivate outside its native range.
As well as its fungal host, it also requires a damp humus-rich soil in a shaded woodland position.
Methods for cultivating it have now been devised in China. However, the symbiotic fungus
(Armillaria mellea) on which G. elata depends is a root disease organism that is one of the most
prominent killers and decayers of deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs in natural forest stands,
plantations, orchards, and gardens throughout the world.
In China, gastrodia tubers are harvested in the autumn or winter, skinned, boiled and either dried in
sunlight or baked dry. Administration: 3 to 10 g ground into a powder and swallowed, 1 to 1.5 g each
time (11).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Hsieh C.L., Chiang S.Y., Cheng K.S., Lin Y.H., Tang N.Y., Lee C.J., Pon C.Z. & Hsieh C.T. (2001)
Anticonvulsive and free radical scavenging activities of Gastrodia elata Bl. in kainic acid-treated rats. Am J Chin
Med., 29(2): 331-341.
3.Mori A., Yokoi I., Noda Y. & Willmore L.J. (2004) Natural antioxidants may prevent posttraumatic epilepsy: a
proposal based on experimental animal studies. Acta Med Okayama., 58(3): 111-118.
4.Hsieh C.L., Chen C.L., Tang N.Y., Chuang C.M., Hsieh C.T., Chiang S.Y., Lin J.G. & Hsu S.F. (2005)
Gastrodia elata BL mediates the suppression of nNOS and microglia activation to protect against neuronal
damage in kainic acid-treated rats. Am J Chin Med., 33(4): 599-611.
5.Sun X.F., Wang W., Wang D.Q. & Du G.Y. (2004) Research progress of neuroprotective mechanisms of
Gastrodia elata and its preparation. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(4): 292-295.
6.Zhang C.Y., Du G.Y., Wang W., Ye Z.G., Wang D.Q., Sun X.F. & Zhao D.Z. (2004) Effects of tianma gouteng
fang on transmitter amino acids in the hippocampus extracellular liquids in freely moving rats subjected to brain
ischemia. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(11): 1061-1065.
67
7.Kim H.J., Lee S.R. & Moon K.D. (2003) Ether fraction of methanol extracts of Gastrodia elata, medicinal herb
protects against neuronal cell damage after transient global ischemia in gerbils. Phytother Res., 17(8): 909-912.
8.Hsieh M.T., Wu C.R. & Chen C.F. (1997) Gastrodin and p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol facilitate memory
consolidation and retrieval, but not acquisition, on the passive avoidance task in rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 56(1):
45-54.
9.Kim H.J., Moon K.D., Lee D.S. & Lee S.H. (2003) Ethyl ether fraction of Gastrodia elata Blume protects
amyloid beta peptide-induced cell death. J Ethnopharmacol., 84(1): 95-98.
10.Tian J., Zhu A., Shi J., Yin J. & Peng S. (2003) A double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial of
compound of gastrodine in treatment of mild to moderate vascular dementia in Beijing, China. Presented at the
American Heart Association Second Asia Pacific Scientific Forum, Honolulu, Hawaii, June 10, 2003. Abstract
No. P177.
11.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Gentiana dahurica (QIN JIAO) gentian {R4}
This herb is said to have antiinflammatory and antibacterial effects, and lowers blood pressure (1).
Used with other herbs for rheumatoid arthritis with muscular contracture and severe joint pain (2). No
medical efficacy papers could be retrieved.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Gentiana macrophylla (QIN JIAO) large-leaf gentian {R18}
This plant is said to exhibit antiinflammatory and antibacterial effects and lower blood pressure (1,2).
It is also used to treat rheumatism (1,3). A recent rat study found that the potential antiinflammatory
action of ‘gentianine’ from Gentiana macrophylla might be at least partly based on the suppressed
production of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin (4). In related work, acute treatment of
rheumatoid rats with an extract from the roots of G. macrophylla produced a significant inhibitory
effect on rheumatoid arthritis (5). When rats were orally fed the extract at a daily dose of 100 mg/kg
body weight, prostaglandin E(2) levels in inflamed tissues, sole thickness and ankle circumferences
were significantly decreased. Authors conclude that G. macrophylla displayed considerable potency in
antiinflammatory action and could be used in the control of inflammation or rheumatoid arthritis (5). A
proposed crop for Australia (6).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
3.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
4.Kwak W.J., Kim J.H., Ryu K.H., Cho Y.B., Jeon S.D. & Moon CK. (2005) Effects of gentianine on the
production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in male Sprague-Dawley rats treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Biol Pharm Bull., 28(4): 750-753.
5.Yu F., Yu F., Li R. & Wang R. (2004) Inhibitory effects of the Gentiana macrophylla (Gentianaceae) extract
on rheumatoid arthritis of rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 95(1): 77-81.
6.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Gentiana scabra (LONG DAN) scabrous gentian {R11}
Traditionally used for liver problems (1). Recent research reported that methanolic extracts of the
aerial parts and roots both had certain hepatoprotective effects in acute liver injury models for mice
(2).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Jiang W.X. & Xue B.Y. (2005) Hepatoprotective effects of Gentiana scabra on the acute liver injuries in mice.
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(14): 1105-1107.
Gentiana triflora (LONG DAN) three-flower gentian {R5}
Root extract from Gentiana triflora triggered cell death of human Daudi cells in culture and daily
administration of the extract to mice inhibited growth of implanted solid tumours (1).
1.Matsukawa K., Ogata M., Hikage T., Minami H., Shimotai Y., Saitoh Y., Yamashita T., Ouchi A., Tsutsumi R.,
Fujioka T. & Tsutsumi K. (2006) Antiproliferative activity of root extract from Gentian plant (Gentiana triflora)
on cultured and implanted tumor cells. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem., 70(4): 1046-1048.
Ginkgo biloba (seeds- BAI GUO, leaves- YEN XING) ginkgo or maidenhair tree {R13}
Ginkgo biloba has been a popular ornamental tree in SE Australia for many years. This rare example
of a monotypic genus originated in China but no longer occurs in the wild there. A good example of
traditional medicinal use of seeds evolving to a modern focus centred on the leaves. The literature on
this species is extensive and there is excellent support from human trials indicating that leaf extracts
can enhance memory and cognitive behaviour especially in the elderly. G. biloba extract (GBE) may
68
be the most important plant-derived medicine available. GBE has been confirmed by more than 50
double-blind studies to be effective in cerebral, as well as arterial insufficiency (1). GBE may offer
significant protective action against the development of Alzheimer’s disease, hearing loss and strokes
(1).
G. biloba was one of ten species identified with potential for future development (2). It is now grown
in Australia as a medicinal ‘herb’ (3) and there have been recent reports suggesting that ‘hedgerow’
style plantings for leaf yield are being established. Many readily available, commercial ‘medicinal’
products use extract from this plant. The extract works, the issues are around economies of production
and value-adding.
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Wilkinson J., Wahlqvist M. & Clark J. (2002) New food and pharmaceutical products from agriculture (Papers
from Outlook 2002). Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Publication No. 02/015, 32 pp.
3.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Gleditsia sinensis (ZAO JIAO) Chinese honey-locust {R19}
Historically this herb is prescribed for its anticancer (1) and antiasthma activity (2). The fruit are rich
in saponins. Findings from rodent studies (in vitro and in vivo) have demonstrated that the ethanolic
extract from anomalous fruits of Gleditsia sinensis possesses antiallergic and antiinflammatory
activities, which may reduce the release of mediators such as histamine from mast cells thereby
weakening the inflammatory action (3).
Many recent in vitro investigations of human cancer cells have shown that the fruit (and sometimes
thorn) extracts have anticancer activity (4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11). These results indicate potential use as an
antineoplastic agent and suggest that further studies are warranted. An in vivo experiment found that
the ethanolic extract of G. sinensis stings (thorns) significantly reduced uterine cervical tumour weight
and increased the life-span of tumour harbouring mice (12).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Dai Y., Chan Y.P., Chu L.M. & Bu P.P. (2002) Antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanolic
extract from Gleditsia sinensis. Biol Pharm Bull., 25(9): 1179-1182.
4.Chow L.M., Tang J.C., Teo I.T., Chui C.H., Lau F.Y., Leung T.W., Cheng G., Wong R.S., Wong I.L., Tsang
K.M., Tan W.Q., Zhao Y.Z., Lai K.B., Lam W.H., Guo D.A. & Chan A.S. (2002) Antiproliferative activity of the
extract of Gleditsia sinensis fruit on human solid tumour cell lines. Chemotherapy., 48(6): 303-308.
5.Chow L.M., Chui C.H., Tang J.C., Lau F.Y., Yau M.Y., Cheng G.Y., Wong R.S., Lai P.B., Leung T.W., Teo
I.T., Cheung F., Guo D. & Chan A.S. (2003) Anti-angiogenic potential of Gleditsia sinensis fruit extract. Int J
Mol Med., 12(2): 269-273.
6.Zhong L., Qu G., Li P., Han J. & Guo D. (2003) Induction of apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest by
Gleditsioside E from Gleditsia sinensis in HL-60 cells. Planta Med., 69(6): 561-563.
7.Chow L.M., Chui C.H., Tang J.C., Teo I.T., Lau F.Y., Cheng G.Y., Wong R.S., Leung T.W., Lai K.B., Yau
M.Y., Gou D. & Chan A.S. (2003) Gleditsia sinensis fruit extract is a potential chemotherapeutic agent in chronic
and acute myelogenous leukemia. Oncol Rep., 10(5): 1601-1607.
8.Zhong L., Li P., Han J., Qu G. & Guo D. (2004) Structure-activity relationships of saponins from Gleditsia
sinensis in cytotoxicity and induction of apoptosis. Planta Med., 70(9): 797-802.
9.Lim J.C., Park J.H., Budesinsky M., Kasal A., Han Y.H., Koo B.S., Lee S.I. & Lee D.U. (2005)
Antimutagenic constituents from the thorns of Gleditsia sinensis. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 53(5): 561-564.
10.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
11.Cheung F., Chui C.H., Chan A.S., Lau F.Y., Cheng G.Y., Wong R.S., Kok S.H., Teo I.T., Cheng C.H. & Tang
J.C. (2005) Inhibition of proteasome activity in Gleditsia sinensis fruit extract-mediated apoptosis on human
carcinoma cells. Int J Mol Med., 16(5): 925-929.
12.Long L., Geng G.X. & Li Q.W. (2006) Effect of Gleditsia sinensis stings on growth inhibition and expression
of PCNA and p53 in mice bearing uterine cervical carcinoma (U14). Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 31(2): 150153.
69
Glehnia littoralis (BEI SHA SHEN) beach silvertop or northern glehnia {R14}
This species has antibacterial and antifungal properties (1). In one study, methanol extracts of 36
samples of 21 Umbelliferae plants were screened for polyacetylenic compounds using the ELISA for
panaxytriol, and their antiproliferative activity was checked by MTT assay with tumour cell-lines MK1, HeLa and B16F10 (2). The presence of antiproliferative polyacetylenes was suggested in nine plants
including Glehnia littoralis fruit (2). The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging assay
disclosed quercetin, isoquercetin, rutin, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid as the major antioxidative
constituents in a crude drug from the underground parts of G. littoralis (3). In other work, the roots of
G. littoralis were extracted with an aqueous extraction method and an organic method (4). The
aqueous extract showed potent inhibition of erythrocyte hemolysis, while the organic extract was
potent in inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Results suggested that G. littoralis is a cheaper substitute for
Panax quinquefolium with regard to antioxidant activity (4).
1.Matsuura H., Saxena G., Farmer S.W., Hancock R.E. & Towers G.H. (1996) Antibacterial and antifungal
polyine compounds from Glehnia littoralis ssp. leiocarpa. Planta Med., 62(3): 256-259.
2.Nakano Y., Matsunaga H., Saita T., Mori M., Katano M. & Okabe H. (1998) Antiproliferative constituents in
Umbelliferae plants II. Screening for polyacetylenes in some Umbelliferae plants, and isolation of panaxynol and
falcarindiol from the root of Heracleum moellendorffii. Biol Pharm Bull., 21(3): 257-261.
3.Yuan Z., Tezuka Y., Fan W., Kadota S. & Li X. (2002) Constituents of the underground parts of Glehnia
littoralis. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 50(1): 73-77.
4.Ng T.B., Liu F. & Wang H.X. (2004) The antioxidant effects of aqueous and organic extracts of Panax
quinquefolium, Panax notoginseng, Codonopsis pilosula, Pseudostellaria heterophylla and Glehnia littoralis. J
Ethnopharmacol., 93(2-3): 285-288.
Gloriosa superba [Malaysia- BUNGA SONGSANG] climbing lily, creeping lily, flame lily or
glory lily {R8}
In folk medicine Gloriosa superba is used as a remedy for arthritis but the ‘colchicine’ content of this
plant makes it highly toxic and consequently it has limited use (1). Colchicine is used under the
supervision of physicians to treat gout and rheumatism (1). Colchicine also inhibits the division of
animal cells but is too dangerous to be used to treat tumour growth. A biosynthetic precursor of
colchicine, ‘demecolcine’ is safer and is used to treat certain cancerous cells (1). A major
environmental weed (2) in coastal NE New South Wales and SE Queensland.
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
70
Glycine max (DAN DOU CHI) soybean
Current commercial crop in Australia. The consumption of whole-soybean foods and soybean-protein
isolates can have some beneficial effects on lipid markers of cardiovascular risk (1). Fermented
soybean products may have functional properties. These may present opportunities for Australian
value-adding.
1.Cassidy A., Albertazzi P., Lise Nielsen I., Hall W., Williamson G., Tetens I., Atkins S., Cross H., Manios Y.,
Wolk A., Steiner C. & Branca F. (2006) Critical review of health effects of soyabean phyto-oestrogens in postmenopausal women. Proc Nutr Soc., 65(1): 76-92.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (GAN CAO) Chinese licorice {R6}
Not to be confused with its more widely researched relative Glycyrrhiza glabra, which is also used as
a medicinal plant in China but has a broad indigenous distribution. General information that refers to
‘licorice root’ typically alludes to G. glabra. The literature on G. uralensis is not extensive and it is
often tested in conjunction with many other herbs which makes determination of individual efficacy
difficult. Nonetheless, it has shown some in vitro activity by inhibiting cell growth associated with
prostate cancer (1). This species is used in vast quantities in China but is collected from the wild and
not cultivated (2). Traditionally used with other herbs to treat asthma (3).
1.Hsieh T.C., Lu X., Chea J. & Wu J.M. (2002) Prevention and management of prostate cancer using PC-SPES: a
scientific perspective. J Nutr. 2002 Nov:132 (11 Suppl): 3513S-3517S.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Gnaphalium affine (SHU QU CAO) {R4}
Claimed to have antiasthmatic effects (1). Very limited reporting available.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Gueldenstaedtia verna {R1}
Petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts showed activity against Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas
syringae using a bioautographic assay (1).
1.Xie C., Kokubun T., Houghton P.J. & Simmonds M.S. (2004) Antibacterial activity of the Chinese traditional
medicine, Zi Hua Di Ding. Phytother Res., 18(6): 497-500.
Gymnema sylvestre [India- GURMAR] small Indian ipecac, gymnema or miracle-fruit {R16}
A woody climber that is native to temperate and tropical Asia and Africa (1). It has long been used in
the treatment of diabetes. ‘Gymnemic acid IV’ from Gymnema sylvestre reduced blood glucose levels
and increased plasma insulin levels in streptozotocin diabetic mice (2). Some researchers indicate that
scientific investigation has upheld its effectiveness in both type I and type II diabetes (3,4). However,
a more recent opinion suggests that while the results from extensive animal testing on G. sylvestre
have been positive, the quality of human studies has not been good (5). Potential for commercial
production in Australia has been recognised (6).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Lacaille-Dubois M. (2005) Bioactive saponins from plants: recent developments, pp. 399-428. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
4.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
5.Pinn G. (2005) Herbal medicine in endocrinology and metabolic disease, pp. 383-398. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach
U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
6.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256- 264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Heterostemma brownii {R3}
The aerial parts are used in Taiwanese folk medicine to treat tumours (1,2). ‘Heteromines D and E’
isolated from the aerial parts showed cytotoxicity against five cancer cell-lines (2). Note: this scientific
name is under review.
1.Jakobsen E. & Gundersen L. (2000) Synthesis of Heteromine C from Guanine. Heterocycles, 53: 935-940.
2.Lin Y.L., Huang R.L., Chang C.M. & Kuo Y.H. (1997) Two new puriniums and three new pyrimidines from
Heterostemma brownii. J Nat Prod., 60(10): 982-985.
71
Hibiscus mutabilis (FU RONG YIE) confederate-rose, cotton-rose or fuyo {R4}
Said to possess anticancer activity (1), but there is very little information in the medical literature
relating to this species. In one experimental assessment made on the anti-herpes simplex virus-II action
of 500 herbs, 13 highly effective herbs were screened out, including Hibiscus mutabilis (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Zheng M.S. (1989) An experimental study of the anti-HSV-II action of 500 herbal drugs. J Tradit Chin Med.,
9(2): 113-116.
Homalomena occulta (QIAN NIAN JIAN) homalomena {R4}
Traditionally for rheumatoid arthritis (1). The constituents of the rhizome have been studied (2,3), but
scientific documentation is too limited to draw conclusions on efficacy.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zhou C.M., Yao C., Sun H.L., Qiu S.X. & Cui G.Y. (1991) Volatile constituents of the rhizome of
Homalomena occulta. Planta medica, 57(4): 391-392.
3.Elbandy M., Lerche H., Wagner H. & Lacaille-Dubois M.A. (2004) Constituents of the rhizome of
Homalomena occulta. Biochemical systematics & ecology, 32(12): 1209-1213.
Houttuynia cordata (YU XING CAO) houttuynia, chameleon plant, fish plant or dokudami
{R18}
Current commercial crop in Australia, the leaves and smaller stems are eaten fresh as a salad or food
garnish. Houttuynia cordata injection is widely used to treat disease in China and at present there were
about 40 factories producing it (1). The steam distillate prepared from fresh plants was found to have
direct inhibitory activity herpes simplex virus type-1, influenza virus, and human immunodeficiency
virus type-1 without showing cytotoxicity (2). Recent work has suggested that its antiinflammatory
properties could play a role in treating severe acute respiratory syndrome (ie. SARS) (3). Results from
rat trials clearly indicated that houttuynia had antiinflammatory activity. Cell-line work has also
demonstrated antiinflammatory actions (4). Other investigations have considered the effect of H.
cordata water extract on mast cell-mediated anaphylactic reactions (5). The mast cell-mediated
anaphylactic reaction is involved in many allergic diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Results
suggested that the extract may be beneficial.
Nontheless, H. cordata water extract is better known for its antioxidant and anticancer activities.
Several bioactive alkaloids from a methanolic extract of the aerial parts exhibited significant
cytotoxicity against five human tumour cell-lines (6). In other studies to evaluate antileukaemic
activity, five leukaemic cell-lines were cultured with hot water extracts of H. cordata which inhibited
all lines (7). H. cordata showed antioxidative and antimutagenic properties in rats exposed to
oxidative stress in oxidised-frying oil, feeding trials (8).
1.Lu H.M., Liang Y.Z. & Chen S. (2006) Identification and quality assessment of Houttuynia cordata injection
using GC-MS fingerprint: A standardization approach. J Ethnopharmacol., 105(3):436-440.
2.Hayashi K., Kamiya M. & Hayashi T. (1995) Virucidal effects of the steam distillate from Houttuynia cordata
and its components on HSV-1, influenza virus, and HIV. Planta Med., 61(3): 237-241.
3.Lu H.M., Liang Y.Z., Yi L.Z. & Wu X.J. (2005) Anti-inflammatory effect of Houttuynia cordata injection. J
Ethnopharmacol., 104(1-2): 245-249.
4.Park E., Kum S., Wang C., Park S.Y., Kim B.S. & Schuller-Levis G. (2005) Anti-inflammatory activity of
herbal medicines: inhibition of nitric oxide production and tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion in an activated
macrophage-like cell line. Am J Chin Med., 33(3): 415-424.
5.Li G.Z., Chai O.H., Lee M.S., Han E.H., Kim H.T. & Song C.H. (2005) Inhibitory effects of Houttuynia
cordata water extracts on anaphylactic reaction and mast cell activation. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(10): 1864-1868.
6.Kim S.K., Ryu S.Y., No J., Choi S.U. & Kim Y.S. (2001) Cytotoxic alkaloids from Houttuynia cordata. Arch
Pharm Res., 24(6): 518-521.
7.Chang J.S., Chiang L.C., Chen C.C., Liu L.T., Wang K.C. & Lin C.C. (2001) Antileukemic activity of Bidens
pilosa L. var. minor (Blume) Sherff and Houttuynia cordata Thunb. Am J Chin Med., 29(2): 303-312.
8.Chen Y.Y., Liu J.F., Chen C.M., Chao P.Y. & Chang T.J. (2003) A study of the antioxidative and
antimutagenic effects of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. using an oxidized frying oil-fed model. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol
(Tokyo)., 49(5): 327-333.
72
Huperzia serrata - toothed club moss or toge-shiba {R16}
This club moss has been used in China since recorded history for treatment of swelling, fever and
blood disorders (1) but modern scientific investigation has found a new use. In the early 1990s,
‘huperzine A’, an alkaloid isolated from Huperzia serrata was found to be a selective cholinesterase
inhibitor and could improve learning and retrieval processes (2). Preliminary clinical studies at that
time showed that huperzine A improved short and long-term memory in patients with cerebral
arteriosclerosis and memory impairment (3). In other research from this period, the therapeutic effects
of huperzine A were studied by random, match and double-blind method in 56 patients of multi-infarct
dementia or senile dementia, and 104 patients of senile and presenile simple memory disorders (4).
Curative effects were evaluated using the Wechsler memory scale. Results showed that curative effects
of huperzine A were significant. Only a few patients felt slight dizziness and this did not affect the
therapeutic benefits (4). Huperzine A also subsequently exhibited memory-enhancing activities in a
broad range of animal cognitive models (5).
More recently, huperzine A has undergone double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in patients
with Alzheimer's disease, with significant improvements both to cognitive function and the quality of
life (6). Most of the clinical trials are from China but huperzine A and derivatives are attracting
considerable interest in the West (6). Furthermore, both animal and human safety evaluations have
demonstrated that huperzine A is devoid of unexpected toxicity.
Phase IV clinical trials in China have now demonstrated that huperzine A significantly relieves
memory deficits in aged subjects, patients with benign senescent forgetfulness, Alzheimer's disease
and vascular dementia, with minimal peripheral cholinergic side-effects compared with other
acetylcholinesterases in use (7,8). Huperzine A possesses the ability to protect cells against hydrogen
peroxide, beta-amyloid protein (or peptide), glutamate, ischaemia and staurosporine-induced
cytotoxicity and apoptosis (8).
Marco Hi-Tech Joint Venture has exclusive worldwide marketing and distribution rights to huperzine
A (9). Marco Hi-Tech Joint Venture is a corporation principally owned by Hi-Tech Pharmacal and
Marco International, a global trading and finance firm formed to import huperzine A from China.
Marco Hi-Tech Joint Venture also has rights to synthetic analogues of huperzine A. In July 2003,
Savient Pharmaceuticals acquired the exclusive rights from Marco Hi-Tech to market huperzine A in
Europe and the USA (9).
This club moss grows to around 10 cm in height under shady conditions. It requires a humid
atmosphere and may be hard to establish. The spores are generally produced in abundance but are
difficult to grow successfully.
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Zangara, A. (2003) The psychopharmacology of huperzine A: an alkaloid with cognitive enhancing and
neuroprotective properties of interest in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 75(3):
675-686.
3.Zhu X.Z. (1991) Development of natural products as drugs acting on central nervous system. Mem Inst
Oswaldo Cruz., 86(2): 173-175.
4.Zhang R.W., Tang X.C., Han Y.Y., Sang G.W., Zhang Y.D., Ma Y.X., Zhang C.L. & Yang R.M. (1991)
Drug evaluation of huperzine A in the treatment of senile memory disorders. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao., 12(3):
250-252.
5.Tang X.C. (1996) Huperzine A (shuangyiping): a promising drug for Alzheimer's disease. Zhongguo Yao Li
Xue Bao., 17(6): 481-484.
6.Zangara A. (2003) The psychopharmacology of huperzine A: an alkaloid with cognitive enhancing and
neuroprotective properties of interest in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 75(3):
675-686.
7.Wang R. & Tang X.C. (2005) Neuroprotective effects of huperzine A. A natural cholinesterase inhibitor for the
treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Neurosignals., 14(1-2): 71-82.
8.Wang R., Yan H. & Tang X.C. (2006) Progress in studies of huperzine A, a natural cholinesterase inhibitor
from Chinese herbal medicine. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 27(1): 1-26.
9.[Authors not listed] (2004) Huperzine A. Drugs R D., 5(1): 44-45.
73
Ilex pubescens (MAO DONG QING) pubescent holly {R11}
The root dilates blood vessels and is used in coronary heart disease to increase blood flow in coronary
arteries and reduce blood pressure (1). A successful treatment for angina pectoris (2). Experimental
studies have shown that compounds from this plant inhibit thrombosis, platelet adhesion and platelet
aggregation (3,4,5). The cardio drugs ‘glaberone’and ‘ilexonin A’ have been isolated from Ilex
pubescens (6). It is also a traditional Chinese medicine that is frequently prescribed for treating
depression-like ailments. Findings from recent experiments on mice supported the clinical prescription
of this herb as an antidepressant phytochemical for human use (7).
1.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Wang L. & Wang Z. (1989) Ilexonin A may be a slow calcium channel blocker. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi.,
9(11): 668-71, 645.
4.Wang Z. & Li F. (1993) Effects of ilexonin A on cAMP metabolism in platelets. Chin Med Sci J., 8(4): 215217.
5.Jiang Z.H., Wang J.R., Li M., Liu Z.Q., Chau K.Y., Zhao C. & Liu L. (2005) Hemiterpene glucosides with
anti-platelet aggregation activities from Ilex pubescens. J Nat Prod., 68(3): 397-399.
6.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
7.Xu C., Luo L. & Tan R.X. (2004) Antidepressant effect of three traditional Chinese medicines in the learned
helplessness model. J Ethnopharmacol., 91(2-3): 345-349.
Imperata cylindrica (BAI MAO GEN) imperata, alang-alang or cogon grass {R15}
The roots have an ethnobotanical use as antidiabetic agents. However, when fed to mice Imperata
cylindrica did not lower blood glucose levels (1). Nonetheless, ‘imperanene’ a novel phenolic
compound isolated from I. cylindrica showed platelet aggregation inhibitory activity (2). And, a novel
lignan, ‘graminone B’ showed inhibitory activity on contraction of rabbit aorta (3). A potential weed
(4).
1.Villasenor I.M. & Lamadrid M.R. (2006) Comparative anti-hyperglycemic potentials of medicinal plants. J
Ethnopharmacol., 104(1-2): 129-131.
2.Matsunaga K., Shibuya M. & Ohizumi Y. (1995) Imperanene, a novel phenolic compound with platelet
aggregation inhibitory activity from Imperata cylindrica. J Nat Prod., 58(1): 138-139.
3.Matsunaga K., Shibuya M. & Ohizumi Y. (1994) Graminone B, a novel lignan with vasodilative activity from
Imperata cylindrica. J Nat Prod., 57(12): 1734-1736.
4.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Inula racemosa [India- PUSHKARMOOLA] Inula or Indian elecampane {R14}
An Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for ischaemic heart disease and asthma (1). Effects on
cardiovascular disease have been better investigated (2). Inula prevented ECG signs of ischaemia after
exercise in human patients with ischaemic heart disease (1). Inula was found to possess significant
antianginal activity in an open clinical study of 30 patients with angina pectoris; it also lowered
diastolic blood pressure (1).
Inula was studied in combination with Guggula (Commiphora mukul) using 200 patients with
ischaemic heart (3). Initially approximately 80% experienced dyspnoea and all 200 subjects had chest
pain, with positive indications of myocardial ischaemia (3). At the end of the six-month study period,
26% of subjects had a complete restoration of normal ECG and another 59% showed ECG
improvement. Twenty-five percent of subjects had no chest pain and patients experiencing dyspnoea
fell to 32% (3).
In another trial, the efficacy of inula was compared to nitroglycerin for the prevention of anginal
symptoms (4). Nine human subjects with ischaemic heart disease were involved in the study and all
showed positive for myocardial ischaemia through their ECG ST-segment depression on exertion. The
inula group received 3 g root powder 90 min prior to testing and the controls were given nitroglycerin.
All nine subjects had improvement in ST-segment depression on ECG but benefits were greater for
those who were given inula (4). In Australia, there have been previous attempts to grow this plant but
it is not a current commercial crop (5).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
74
2.Miller AL. (1998) Botanical influences on cardiovascular disease. Altern Med Rev., 3(6): 422-431.
3.Singh R.P., Singh R., Ram P. & Batliwala P.G. (1993) Use of Pushkar-Guggul, an indigenous antiischemic
combination, in the management of ischemic heart disease. Int J Pharmacog., 31: 147-160.
4.Tripathi S.N., Upadhyaya B.N. & Guptha V.K. (1984) Beneficial effect of Inula racemosa (Pushkarmoola) in
angina pectoris: a preliminary report. Ind J Physiol Pharmac., 28: 73-75.
5.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Iphigenia indica (SHAN CI GU) iphigenia or grass lily {R2}
Suggested role in cancer treatment (1) but there is a lack of published scientific evidence to back
claims.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Iris domestica (SHE GAN) belamcanda, blackberry lily or leopard lily {R14}
‘Isorhapontigenin’, isolated from belamcanda has a chemical structure very similar to that of
‘resveratrol’, which is a potent antioxidant. Study of the antioxidative activity of isorhapontigenin in
vitro showed that it was potent and much more active than vitamin E (1). ‘Irigenin’ from the rhizomes
could be a leading compound for antiinflammation (2). ‘Tectorigenin’ isolated from the rhizomes
showed antiproliferation activity in animal trials and suppressed tumour weight and volume (3). Other
experiments on belamcanda extract showed inhibition of development of animal tumours in vivo (4).
Tectorigenin may also have a role in prevention and/or treatment of diabetic complications (5).
1.Wang Q.L., Lin M. & Liu G.T. (2001) Antioxidative activity of natural isorhapontigenin. Jpn J Pharmacol.,
87(1): 61-66.
2.Ahn K.S., Noh E.J., Cha K.H., Kim Y.S., Lim S.S., Shin K.H. & Jung S.H. (2006) Inhibitory effects of Irigenin
from the rhizomes of Belamcanda chinensis on nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2) production in murine
macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. Life Sci., 78(20): 2336-2342.
3.Jung S.H., Lee Y.S., Lee S., Lim S.S., Kim Y.S., Ohuchi K. & Shin K.H. (2003) Anti-angiogenic and antitumor activities of isoflavonoids from the rhizomes of Belamcanda chinensis. Planta Med., 69(7): 617-622.
4.Thelen P., Scharf J.G., Burfeind P., Hemmerlein B., Wuttke W., Spengler B., Christoffel V., Ringert R.H. &
Seidlova-Wuttke D. (2005) Tectorigenin and other phytochemicals extracted from leopard lily Belamcanda
chinensis affect new and established targets for therapies in prostate cancer. Carcinogenesis, 26(8): 1360-1367.
5.Jung S.H., Lee Y.S., Lee S., Lim S.S., Kim Y.S. & Shin K.H. (2002) Isoflavonoids from the rhizomes of
Belamcanda chinensis and their effects on aldose reductase and sorbitol accumulation in streptozotocin induced
diabetic rat tissues. Arch Pharm Res., 25(3): 306-312.
Isodon eriocalyx {R7}
In traditional Chinese medicine this species is used for its antiinflammatory and antibacterial
properties (1). Rich in diterpenoids (1,2,3). Compounds isolated from the leaves of Isodon eriocalyx
var. laxiflora have been tested for their in vitro cytotoxicity toward human tumour cells (4). Laxiflorin
E, laxiflorin C and eriocalyxin B showed significant inhibitory effects on K562 cells, and compounds
laxiflorin E and eriocalyxin B demonstrated significant inhibitory activity toward T24 cells (4,5).
While laxiflorin I and maoecrystal C displayed inhibitory effects on both these tumour cell types (4,5).
Laxiflorin L inhibited human tumour A549 cell-line (5). Note: this scientific name is undergoing
review.
1.Sun H.D., Lin Z.W., Niu F.D., Shen P.Q., Pan L.T., Lin L.Z. & Cordell G.A. (1995) Diterpenoids from Isodon
eriocalyx var. laxiflora. Phytochemistry, 38(6): 1451-1455.
2.Niu X.M., Li S.H., Mei S.X., Na Z., Zhao Q.S., Lin Z.W. & Sun H.D. (2002) Cytotoxic 3,20-epoxy-entkaurane diterpenoids from Isodon eriocalyx var. laxiflora. J Nat Prod., 65(12): 1892-1896.
3.Chen S.N., Yue J.M., Chen S.Y., Lin Z.W., Qin G.W., Sun H.D. & Chen Y.Z. (1999) Diterpenoids from Isodon
eriocalyx. J Nat Prod., 62(5): 782-784.
4.Niu X.M., Li S.H., Li M.L., Zhao Q.S., Mei S.X., Na Z., Wang S.J., Lin Z.W. & Sun H.D. (2002)
Cytotoxic ent-kaurane diterpenoids from Isodon eriocalyx var. laxiflora. Planta Med., 68(6): 528-533.
5.Niu X.M., Li S.H., Mei S.X., Na Z., Zhao Q.S., Lin Z.W. & Sun H.D. (2002) Cytotoxic 3,20-epoxy-entkaurane diterpenoids from Isodon eriocalyx var. laxiflora. J Nat Prod., 65(12): 1892-1896.
Juglans regia (HU TAO REN) English walnut
An existing commercial crop in Australia. Said to possess anticancer activity (1) and function as a
mild hypoglycaemic (2), and antiinflammatory (2). Used with other herbs for asthma (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
3.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
75
Justicia adhatoda [India- AMALAKA, ADOTODAI] Malabar Nut Tree or pavettia {R10}
A small evergreen bush that grows commonly in open plains, especially in the lower Himalayas (1).
Use is linked to respiratory diseases such as asthma. Human clinical studies showed an expectorant
action, especially in acute bronchitis, with a loosening of thick phlegm (1,2). However, the antiasthma
claims lack strong backing. Benefits in treating asthma may be as much due to expectorant and
antiallergic effects as to bronchodilation (1). Alkaloids from Justicia adhatoda showed pronounced
protection against allergen-induced bronchial obstruction in guinea pigs (3). However, some concerns
have been raised over the safety of this plant when used as a herbal medicine (4).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Narimanian M., Badalyan M., Panosyan V., Gabrielyan E., Panossian A., Wikman G. & Wagner H. (2005)
Randomized trial of a fixed combination (KanJang) of herbal extracts containing Adhatoda vasica, Echinacea
purpurea and Eleutherococcus senticosus in patients with upper respiratory tract infections. Phytomedicine.,
12(8): 539-547.
3.Dorsch W. & Wagner H. (1991) New antiasthmatic drugs from traditional medicine? Int Arch Allergy Appl
Immunol., 94(1-4): 262-265.
4.Claeson U.P., Malmfors T., Wikman G. & Bruhn J.G. (2000) Adhatoda vasica: a critical review of
ethnopharmacological and toxicological data. J Ethnopharmacol., 72(1-2): 1-20.
Laminaria japonica (KUAN BU or KUN BU) laminaria kelp or kombu {R10}
Laminarin polysaccharides from Laminaria japonica, a marine brown alga, suppressed apoptotic death
and extended cell survival in cultures of mouse thymocytes (1). These results suggest that laminarin
polysaccharides could be utilised to develop new immunopotentiating substances and functional
alternative medicines. The prolonging effect of L. japonica on life-span was investigated in mice fed a
diet containing the carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (2). Addition of 2 or 5%, kombu to the benzo[a]pyrene
diet recovered the life-span to a level similar to that of the control. The faeces of the kombu fed mice
contained ingested benzo[a]pyrene, mainly in forms adsorbed on kombu fibers. A benzo[a]pyrene fed
group given cellulose as dietary fiber instead of kombu did not show positive effects. The authors
summarise that humans are exposed to various environmental carcinogens and kombu fibers probably
contribute to longevity by removing them (2). In other animal studies, L. japonica polysaccharides
effectively decreased serum lipid and prevented the formation of atherosclerosis (3).
Increasing evidence in both experimental and clinical studies suggests that oxidative stress plays a
major role in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus type I and type II. Results from rat trials suggest
that L. japonica could be of great value as a dietary supplement in preventing hyperglycaemia in
diabetes mellitus, possibly through its antioxidant activity (4).
A new study and the first to report on the antioxidant activities of lipophilic extracts from seaweeds
suggests that seaweeds can be considered as a potential source for the extraction of lipophilic
antioxidants, which might be used as dietary supplements or in production in the food industry (5). L.
japonica had intermediate antioxidant activity compared to other seaweed species.
1.Kim K.H., Kim Y.W., Kim H.B., Lee B.J. & Lee DS. (2006) Anti-apoptotic Activity of Laminarin
Polysaccharides and their Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Oligosaccharides from Laminaria japonica. Biotechnol
Lett., 28(6): 439-446.
2.Sakakibara H., Nakagawa S., Wakameda H., Nakagiri Y., Kamata K., Das S.K., Tsuji T. & Kanazawa K.
(2005) Effects of Japanese kelp (kombu) on life span of benzo[a]pyrene-fed mice. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. (Tokyo),
51(5): 369-373.
3.Li C., Gao Y., Li M., Shi W. & Liu Z. (2005) Effect of Laminaria japonica polysaccharides on lowing serum
lipid and anti-atherosclerosis in hyperlipemia quails. Zhong Yao Cai., 28(8): 676-679.
4.Jin D.Q., Li G., Kim J.S., Yong C.S., Kim J.A. & Huh K. (2004) Preventive effects of Laminaria japonica
aqueous extract on the oxidative stress and xanthine oxidase activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat liver.
Biol Pharm Bull., 27(7): 1037-1040.
5.Huang H.L. & Wang B.G. (2004) Antioxidant capacity and lipophilic content of seaweeds collected from the
Qingdao coastline. J Agric Food Chem., 52(16): 4993-4997.
Lentinus edodes (HUA GU) [Japan- SHIITAKE] shiitake mushroom or black mushroom
Currently a small commercial crop in Australia. The shiitake mushroom is a mainstay in the Japanese
diet and is regarded as a protector against cancer (1). It is the second most commonly cultivated edible
mushroom also used for medicinal purposes (2). One of shiitake’s polysaccharide components is
‘lentinan’, a highly purified glucan (extracted from either the fruiting body or mycelium) which is
76
used for cancer treatment (1). Lentinan must be injected because it is poorly absorbed orally and does
not suppress tumour growth in animals when administered orally. Human trials have shown that
lentinan may improve the prognosis in breast cancer and may be effective as an adjuvant to
chemotherapy in gastric and colorectal cancer therapy (1). KS-2 is another polysaccharide from
shiitake that is used by cancer patients in China and can be absorbed orally (1). Its effectiveness has
been tested in mouse experiments.
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Huo-Hsiung Lee, Hideji Itokawa & Mutsuo Kozuka (2005) Asian Herbal Products: The basis for development
of high-quality dietary supplements and new medicines, pp. 21-72. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & Shahidi F. (Eds.) ‘Asian
Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
Leonurus japonicus (YI MU CAO) Chinese motherwort {R12}
In vitro activity of Chinese motherwort extract was tested against seven human cancer cell-lines and
found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of all of them (1). Antiproliferation effects were dose
and time dependent.
1.Chinwala M.G., Gao M., Dai J. & Shao J. (2003) In vitro anticancer activities of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet
(Chinese motherwort herb). J Altern Complement Med., 9(4): 511-518.
Lepidium apetalum (TING LI ZI) pepper grass, pepper weed or tansy mustard {R4}
A traditional treatment for asthma (1) but not well supported by scientific evidence. Published research
suggests roles in promoting some aspects of heart function (2), decreasing UV-induced skin
pigmentation in guinea pigs and decreasing melanogenesis of HM3KO human melanoma cells (3).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Wu X., Yang Y. & Huang D. (1998) Effect of aqueous extract of Lepidium apetalum on dog's left ventricular
function. Zhong Yao Cai., 21(5): 243-245.
3.Choi H., Ahn S., Lee B.G., Chang I. & Hwang J.S. (2005) Inhibition of skin pigmentation by an extract of
Lepidium apetalum and its possible implication in IL-6 mediated signaling. Pigment Cell Res., 18(6): 439-446.
Ligustrum lucidum (NU ZHEN ZI) Chinese privet, glossy privet or wax-leaf privet {R12}
Widely cultivated in China and naturalised in South Africa, temperate Asia, Australia, New Zealand
and South America (1). In traditional Chinese medicine, uses for the fruit include- eyesight
improvement, antibacterial, immune stimulant, stimulant for urine flow and heart function
improvement (2). Recent work evaluated the aqueous extract of Ligustrum lucidum for
antiproliferative activity on human cancer cell-lines (3). It demonstrated growth inhibitory activity and
authors suggest that results indicate potential use as a antineoplastic agent with further studies
warranted to evaluate the mechanism of action and isolation of active compounds (3). Nonetheless,
this plant is a potent, successful invader and a potential conservation problem (4).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Shoemaker M., Hamilton B., Dairkee S.H., Cohen I. & Campbell M.J. (2005) In vitro anticancer activity of
twelve Chinese medicinal herbs. Phytother Res., 19(7): 649-651.
4.Aragon R. & Groom M. (2003) Invasion by Ligustrum lucidum (Oleaceae) in NW Argentina: early stage
characteristics in different habitat types. Rev Biol Trop., 51(1): 59-70.
Ligusticum sinense (CHUAN XIONG or GAO BEN) Chinese lovage, Sichuan lovage or straw
weed {R20}
The dried rhizome is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb for prevention and treatment of
inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases. Most research has focussed on its use in treating
cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Ligusticum sinense lowers blood pressure and when used
in the treatment of angina pectoris the active principle has shown efficiency rates of 88% (1). Various
animal models have demonstrated vasorelaxing effects (2,3). The synthetic cardio drug ‘tetramethyl
pyrazine’ is based on an active principle from this plant (4).
In clinical trials with 545 patients, the active principle produced 80 to 90% improvement in the acute
stage of cerebral ischaemia (1). In another double-blind trial of 220 patients, the effect of chuan xiong
on the treatment of acute cerebral infarction was superior to low molecular weight dextran and the
difference between the two groups was statistically significant (5). Clinical tests using chuan xiong in
the treatment of ischaemic stroke found that effects were the same as or better than those of controls,
77
such as papaverine, dextran and aspirin-persantin (6). Chuan xiong may improve brain
microcirculation through inhibiting thrombus formation and platelet aggregation. Protective effects
against cerebral damage have also been demonstrated in animal studies (7,8,9). In Australia there have
been previous attempts to grow this plant but it is not a current commercial crop (10).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chan S.S., Choi A.O., Jones R.L. & Lin G. (2006) Mechanisms underlying the vasorelaxing effects of
butylidenephthalide, an active constituent of Ligusticum chuanxiong, in rat isolated aorta. Eur J Pharmacol.,
537(1-3): 111-117.
3.Liang M.J., He L.C. & Yang G.D. (2005) Screening, analysis and in vitro vasodilatation of effective
components from Ligusticum Chuanxiong. Life Sci., 78(2): 128-133.
4.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
5.Chen D.R. (1992) Comparative study of chuanxiong and dextran 40 in the treatment of acute cerebral
infarction. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 12(2): 67, 71-73
6.Chen K.J. & Chen K. (1992) Ischemic stroke treated with Ligusticum chuanxiong. Chin Med J (Engl)., 105(10):
870-873.
7.Tian J.W., Fu F.H., Jiang W.L., Wang C.Y., Sun F. & Zhang T.P. (2005) Protective effect of Ligusticum
chuanxiong phthalides on focai cerebral ischemia in rats and its related mechanism of action. Zhongguo Zhong
Yao Za Zhi., 30(6): 466-468.
8.Ni J.W., Matsumoto K. & Watanabe H. (1995) Tetramethylpyrazine improves spatial cognitive impairment
induced by permanent occlusion of bilateral common carotid arteries or scopolamine in rats. Jpn J Pharmacol.,
67(2): 137-141.
9.Leung A.W., Mo Z.X. & Zheng Y.S. (1991) Reduction of cellular damage induced by cerebral ischemia in rats.
Neurochem Res., 16(6): 687-692.
10. Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Lilium brownii (BAI HE) Brown's lily or Hong Kong lily {R6}
A well-known and important herb used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiinflammatory (1).
The bulbs of this lily contain steroidal saponins and alkaloids (2). Recent work surveyed 27 plant
species for their inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidase-B in rat brain homogenates (3). The 50%
aqueous methanol extracts of four species, including a variety of Lilium brownii, exhibited the best
activity. Authors suggest that it may be a candidate for use in delaying the progressive degeneration
caused by neurological diseases (3).
1.Hou X. & Chen F. (1998) Studies on chemical constituents of Lilium brownii. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 33(12): 923926.
2.Mimaki Y. & Sashida Y. (1990) Steroidal saponins and alkaloids from the bulbs of Lilium brownii var.
colchesteri. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 38(11): 3055-3059.
3.Lin R.D., Hou W.C., Yen K.Y. & Lee M.H. (2003) Inhibition of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) by Chinese
herbal medicines. Phytomedicine, 10(8): 650-656.
Lindera aggregata (WU YAO) lindera {R4}
The leaves are believed to have antibacterial and antiinflammatory constituents (1).
1.Zhang C.F., Sun Q.S., Wang Z.T. & Chou G.X. (2001) Studies on constituents of the leaves of Lindera
aggregata (Sims) Kosterm. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 26(11): 765-767.
Lindera megaphylla - lindera {R9}
‘Dicentrine’, a naturally occurring aporphine type alkaloid, isolated from the root of Lindera
megaphylla has inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation and ATP release (1). Dicentrine’s positive
haemodynamic effects have been demonstrated in scientific studies but usually in vitro with rat, rabbit
or guinea pig cells/tissues (1,2). One study also evaluated dicentrine for its potential anticancer activity
(3). Dicentrine decreased colony formation efficiency in some human hepatoma cell-lines and was
cytotoxic to various oesophageal carcinoma, lymphoma, leukaemia and hepatoma cell-lines. A tumour
growing assay in mice showed that injection of dicentrine significantly inhibited tumour incidence (3).
1.Yu S.M., Chen C.C., Ko F.N., Huang Y.L., Huang T.F. & Teng C.M. (1992) Dicentrine, a novel antiplatelet
agent inhibiting thromboxane formation and increasing the cyclic AMP level of rabbit platelets. Biochem
Pharmacol., 43(2): 323-329.
2.Yu S.M., Hsu S.Y., Ko F.N., Chen C.C., Huang Y.L., Huang T.F. & Teng C.M. (1992) Haemodynamic effects
of dicentrine, a novel alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist: comparison with prazosin in spontaneously hypertensive
and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats. Br J Pharmacol., 106(4): 797-801.
3.Huang R.L., Chen C.C., Huang Y.L., Ou J.C., Hu C.P., Chen C.F. & Chang C. (1998) Anti-tumor effects of ddicentrine from the root of Lindera megaphylla. Planta Med., 64(3): 212-215.
78
Liquidambar formosana (LU LU TONG) sweetgum or Formosan gum {R7}
Used with other herbs for arthralgia characterised by numbness and muscular contracture (1). Four
oleanane triterpenoids from the ethyl acetate extract of Liquidambar formosana fruits exhibited strong
inhibitory activity against the NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T-cells) transcription factor
suggesting possible anticancer influences (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Dat NT, Lee IS, Cai XF, Shen G, Kim YH. (2004) Oleanane triterpenoids with inhibitory activity against
NFAT transcription factor from Liquidambar formosana. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(3): 426-428.
Liquidambar orientalis (SU HE XIANG) storax {R3}
Antibacterial activity against selected bacteria (1).
1.Sagdic O., Ozkan G., Ozcan M. & Ozcelik S. (2005) A study on inhibitory effects of Sigla tree (Liquidambar
orientalis Mill. var. orientalis) storax against several bacteria. Phytother Res., 19(6): 549-551.
Litchi chinensis (LI ZHI) lychee
An existing crop. Major commercial planting of lychee commenced in Australia in the 1970s.
Litchi fruit pericarp extract contains significant amounts of polyphenolic compounds which exhibited
powerful antioxidative activity against fat oxidation in vitro (1). This extract also exhibited activity
against hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro (human cells) and in vivo (mice), through inhibition of
proliferation and induction of apoptosis (1). One traditional reason for lychee consumption is its
antitumour effects (2).
1.Wang X., Wei Y., Yuan S., Liu G., Zhang Y.L. & Wang W. (2006) Potential anticancer activity of litchi fruit
pericarp extract against hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro and in vivo. Cancer Lett., 239(1): 144-150.
2.Shi J. & Moy J. (2005) Functional foods from fruit and fruit products, pp. 303-340. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. &
Shahidi F. (Eds.) ‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
Lithospermum erythrorhizon (ZI CAO) purple gromwell or red gromwell {R8}
Tumour necrosis factor alpha contributes to the pathogenesis of both acute and chronic inflammatory
diseases and has been a target for the development of new antiinflammatory drugs. ‘Shikonins’, the
naphthoquinone pigments present in the root tissues of Lithospermum erythrorhizon have been
reported to exert antiinflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo (1). Trials on mice suggest that
shikonins inhibit the transcriptional activation of the human tumour necrosis factor alpha promoter
through interference with the basal transcription machinery. Shikonins also inhibit human
immunodeficiency virus type-1 and constitute a basis for the development of novel anti-HIV
therapeutic agents (2).
1.Staniforth V., Wang S.Y., Shyur L.F. & Yang N.S. (2004) Shikonins, phytocompounds from Lithospermum
erythrorhizon, inhibit the transcriptional activation of human tumor necrosis factor alpha promoter in vivo. J Biol
Chem., 279(7): 5877-5885.
2.Chen X., Yang L., Zhang N., Turpin J.A., Buckheit R.W., Osterling C., Oppenheim J.J. & Howard O.M.
(2003) Shikonin, a component of chinese herbal medicine, inhibits chemokine receptor function and suppresses
human immunodeficiency virus type 1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother., 47(9): 2810-2816.
Litsea cubeba (BI CHENG QIE or SHANG CONG ZI) mountain spicy tree, sambal, litsea,
pheasant pepper or mountain pepper {R12}
Recent research found that Litsea cubeba methanol extract and its fractions showed remarkable
antioxidant activity in comparison with alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid (1). Tests on L. cubeba
bark extracts suggested possible benefits for inflammatory conditions (2). Vasorelaxing effects in rat
thoracic aorta caused by laurotetanine isolated from this species have also been reported (3). In
addition, antifungal activity is claimed (3,4). The essential oil is popularly believed to be an
antispasmodic and thus has potential antiasthmatic properties (6); but hard evidence is scanty. Used
traditionally to treat bronchial asthma (7).
1.Hwang J.K., Choi E.M. & Lee J.H. (2005) Antioxidant activity of Litsea cubeba. Fitoterapia, 76(7-8): 684686.
2.Choi E.M. & Hwang J.K. (2004) Effects of methanolic extract and fractions from Litsea cubeba bark on the
production of inflammatory mediators in RAW264.7 cells. Fitoterapia, 75(2): 141-148.
3.Chen W.Y., Ko F.N., Wu Y.C., Lu S.T. & Teng C.M. (1994) Vasorelaxing effect in rat thoracic aorta caused
by laurotetanine isolated from Litsea cubeba Persoon. J Pharm Pharmacol., 46(5): 380-382.
4.Wang F., Yang D., Ren S., Zhang H. & Li R. (1999) Chemical composition of essential oil from leaves of
Litsea cubeba and its antifungal activities. Zhong Yao Cai., 22(8): 400-402.
5.Zhou Y. (1984) Antifungal activity of volatile oils in Litsea cubeba and its main constituent citral. Zhong Xi Yi
Jie He Za Zhi., 4(9): 558-559.
79
6.Qian B.C., Gong W.G., Chen J., Zhang Y.Q., Xu H.J. & Zhang L.X. (1980) Pharmacological studies on antiasthmatic and anti-anaphylactic activities of the essential oil of Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Yao Xue Xue Bao., 15(10):
584-589.
7.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Livistona chinensis (KUI SHU ZI) Chinese fan palm or Chinese fountain palm {R7}
The hot water extract of the dry fruit of Livistona chinensis palm has been used in folklore medicine in
Southern China for treating various tumours (1,2). Research has shown that extract from the seed has
potent antiangiogenic and antitumour activity. The aqueous extract inhibited in vitro proliferation of
endothelial cells and multiple tumour cell-lines including mouse fibrosarcoma and human breast and
colon cancer (2). In mouse experiments, extract suppressed the growth of subcutaneous fibrosarcoma
tumours. Extract from the shell is more potent than the inner kernel in tumour suppression and may be
a potential supplemental source for cancer treatment (3). The fruit of L. chinensis warrant further
investigation for anticancer potential. L. chinensis is a common ornamental palm in Australia.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Cheung S. & Tai J. (2005) In vitro studies of the dry fruit of Chinese fan palm Livistona chinensis. Oncol Rep.,
14(5): 1331-1336.
3.Sartippour M.R., Liu C., Shao Z.M., Go V.L., Heber D. & Nguyen M. (2001) Livistona extract inhibits
angiogenesis and cancer growth. Oncol Rep., 8(6): 1355-1357.
Loropetalum chinense (JI MU) {R1}
In China, this herb has been used to treat angina pectoris (1). No relevant material could be retrieved
from the scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Luffa aegyptiaca (SI GUA LUO) sponge luffa, loofah or sponge gourd
Current commercial crop in Australia. Traditionally used with other herbs for arthralgia (1). Oral
administration of ethanolic extract of the seed significantly reduced blood glucose levels in
streptozotocin diabetic rats with a potency similar to that of the biguanide, metformin (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.El-Fiky F.K., Abou-Karam M.A. & Afify E.A. (1996) Effect of Luffa aegyptiaca (seeds) and Carissa edulis
(leaves) extracts on blood glucose level of normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 50(1): 4347.
Lycium barbarum (GOU QI ZI- fruit, DI GU PI- root bark) Barbary wolfberry or matrimony
vine {R22}
Traditional uses - lowers blood pressure, lowers blood sugar levels, lowers blood cholesterol levels,
immunostimulant, liver tonic and restorative (1). Blood pressure increase of rats could be significantly
prevented by treatment with 10% Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (2). Recent work examined the
hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic effects of L. barbarum fruit water decoction, crude polysaccharide
extracts, and purified polysaccharide fractions in alloxan-induced diabetic or hyperlipidaemic rabbits
(3). It was found that the three fruit extracts/fractions significantly reduced blood glucose levels and
serum total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, and at the same time markedly increased high
density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, after 10 days of treatment; indicating substantial hypoglycaemic
and hypolipidaemic effects. Crude extracts of the fruit were identified to be rich in antioxidants (3). In
related work, the effect of L. barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) on improvement of insulin resistance
and lipid profile was studied in rats, in a model for non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM)
(4). Rats were divided into three groups: control, NIDDM control, and NIDDM+LBP. LBP treatment
for three weeks resulted in a significant decrease in the concentration of plasma triglyceride and
weight in NIDDM rats. Furthermore, LBP markedly decreased plasma cholesterol levels and fasting
plasma insulin levels, and decreased postprandial glucose level at 30 min during oral glucose tolerance
testing, and significantly increased the insulin sensitive index in NIDDM rats (4).
This herb has also been investigated for anticancer effects. Seventy-nine advanced cancer patients in a
clinical trial were treated with LAK/IL-2 combined with LBP. Initial results of the treatment obtained
from 75 evaluable patients indicated that objective regression of cancer was achieved in patients with
malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal
carcinoma and malignant hydrothorax (5). The response rate of patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus
LBP was 40.9% while that of patients treated with LAK/IL-2 was 16.1% (P < 0.05). The mean
80
remission in patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus LBP also lasted significantly longer. The results
indicate that LBP can be used as an adjuvant in the biotherapy of cancer (5). Since this clinical work
was undertaken, a number of cell-line and animal trials have confirmed antioxidant, antiproliferation
and antitumour properties (eg. 6,7,8,9,10).
An up-to-date human supplementation trial showed that ‘zeaxanthin’ in whole wolfberries is
bioavailable and that intake of a modest daily amount markedly increased fasting plasma zeaxanthin
levels (11). Age-related macular degeneration is a common disorder that causes irreversible loss of
central vision but increased intake of foods containing zeaxanthin may be effective in its prevention. L.
barbarum also displayed neuroprotective effects in rat trials and could play a role in prevention of
Alzheimer's disease (12).
Previously identified as a potential new crop for Australia (13). Family Solanaceae, a deciduous shrub
growing to 2.5 m. Can tolerate nutritionally poor soil and maritime exposure and is easily grown.
The fruit which are berries about 2 cm in diameter, can be consumed raw, dried or cooked but only
fully ripe fruits should be eaten. They have a mild, sweet liquorice flavour. In China, fruit are collected
in summer, dried in the shade and used unprepared. Young shoots can also be lightly cooked and used
as a vegetable; the flavour is cress-like. L. barbarum leaves are also a tea substitute. Traditional
medicinal administration: 5 to 10 g decocted in water for internal use (ripe fruit), 6 to 15 g decocted in
water for an oral dose (dried root bark) (14).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley- Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Jia Y.X., Dong J.W., Wu X.X., Ma T.M. & Shi A.Y. (1998) The effect of lycium barbarum polysaccharide on
vascular tension in two-kidney, one clip model of hypertension. Sheng Li Xue Bao., 50(3): 309-314.
3.Luo Q., Cai Y., Yan J., Sun M. & Corke H. (2004) Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects and antioxidant
activity of fruit extracts from Lycium barbarum. Life Sci., 76(2): 137-149.
4.Zhao R., Li Q. & Xiao B. (2005) Effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on the improvement of insulin
resistance in NIDDM rats. Yakugaku Zasshi., 125(12): 981-988.
5.Cao G.W., Yang W.G. & Du P. (1994) Observation of the effects of LAK/IL-2 therapy combining with Lycium
barbarum polysaccharides in the treatment of 75 cancer patients. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi., 16(6): 428-431.
6.Gan L., Wang J. & Zhang S. (2001) Inhibition the growth of human leukemia cells by Lycium barbarum
polysaccharide. Wei Sheng Yan Jiu., 30(6): 333-335.
7.Gan L., Hua Zhang S., Liang Yang X. & Bi Xu H. (2004) Immunomodulation and antitumor activity by a
polysaccharide-protein complex from Lycium barbarum. Int Immunopharmacol., 4(4): 563-569.
8.Wu S.J., Ng L.T. & Lin C.C. (2004) Antioxidant activities of some common ingredients of traditional chinese
medicine, Angelica sinensis, Lycium barbarum and Poria cocos. Phytother Res., 18(12): 1008-1012.
9.Zhang M., Chen H., Huang J., Li Z., Zhu C. & Zhang S. (2005) Effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on
human hepatoma QGY7703 cells: inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis. Life Sci., 76(18): 21152124.
10.He Y.L., Ying Y., Xu Y.L., Su J.F., Luo H. & Wang H.F. (2005) Effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide
on tumor microenvironment T-lymphocyte subsets and dendritic cells in H22-bearing mice. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He
Xue Bao., 3(5): 374-377.
11.Cheng C.Y., Chung W.Y., Szeto Y.T. & Benzie I.F. (2005) Fasting plasma zeaxanthin response to Fructus
barbarum L. (wolfberry; Kei Tze) in a food-based human supplementation trial. Br J Nutr., 93(1): 123-130.
12.Yu M.S., Leung S.K., Lai S.W., Che C.M., Zee S.Y., So K.F., Yuen W.H. & Chang R.C. (2005)
Neuroprotective effects of anti-aging oriental medicine Lycium barbarum against beta-amyloid peptide
neurotoxicity. Exp Gerontol., 40(8-9): 716-727.
13.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
14.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Lycium chinense (DI GU PI- root bark, GOU QI ZI- fruit) Chinese boxthorn or Chinese
wolfberry {R21}
This herb has been observed to lower blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure and lower blood
cholesterol (1). However, its use as a liver tonic and restorative has been better substantiated (2).
‘Zeaxanthin dipalmitate’ from Lycium chinense exerted potent hepatoprotective activity in cultured rat
cells (3). A novel cerebroside (1-O-(beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-(2S,3R,4E,8Z)-2-N-palmityloc
tadecasphinga-4,8-diene) from the fruits of L. chinense may preserve the hepatic mitochondrial level
of glutathione by scavenging reactive oxygen species produced during carbon tetrachloride-induced
toxicity and thereby reduce lipid peroxidation and cellular damage (4,5). Other recent studies have
demonstrated the hepatoprotective effects of compounds from the fruit (6,7).
81
(+)-Lyoniresinol-3alpha-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside from an ethyl acetate extract of the root bark
exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients, and human pathogenic fungi without having any
hemolytic effect on human erythrocytes (8). This indicates excellent potential as a lead compound for
the development of antibiotic agents.
Regulation of monoamine oxidase-B activity is important in the treatment of neurodegenerative
diseases. Twenty-seven species of plants used in traditional Chinese medicines were used in an
investigation of their inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidase-B in rat brain homogenates (9). The
50% aqueous methanol extracts of four active extracts, including L. chinense, exhibited the best
activity and selectivity towards monoamine oxidase-B and may therefore be candidates for use in
delaying the progressive degeneration caused by neurological diseases. This plant was identified as
one of eight Chinese medicinal plants that has potential for production in the USA (10). Also
recognised as a potential new crop for Australia (11).
L. chinense (family Solanaceae) is a deciduous, perennial shrub growing to 2.5 m. It resembles a
raspberry bush in form and behaviour, and yields fruit (oblong berries about 15 mm long by 8 mm
diameter), two to three years after planting. Yields are enhanced by rigorous pruning. Spacing between
plants should be around 1 m within rows. Berries are harvested several times per season, and root bark
may be harvested in late autumn or early spring. The fruit are typically dried like raisins and sold in
packages in Chinese supermarkets, and have a sweet, aniseed-like flavour. Only the fully ripe fruits
should be eaten. Leaves and young shoots can be consumed raw (eg. in salads) or cooked. The roasted
seed is a coffee substitute and the dried leaves are a tea substitute. This plant is easily grown and
succeeds in impoverished soils. Traditional medicinal administration: 5 to 10 g decocted in water for
internal use (ripe fruit), 6 to 15 g decocted in water for an oral dose (dried root bark) (12).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
3.Kim H.P., Kim S.Y., Lee E.J., Kim Y.C. & Kim Y.C. (1997) Zeaxanthin dipalmitate from Lycium chinense has
hepatoprotective activity. Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol., 97(3): 301-314.
4.Kim S.Y., Lee E.J., Kim H.P., Kim Y.C., Moon A. & Kim Y.C. (1999)A novel cerebroside from lycii fructus
preserves the hepatic glutathione redox system in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes. Biol Pharm Bull., 22(8):
873-875.
5.Kim S.Y., Lee E.J., Kim H.P., Lee H.S. & Kim Y.C. (2000) LCC, a cerebroside from Lycium chinense, protects
primary cultured rat hepatocytes exposed to galactosamine. Phytother Res., 14(6): 448-451.
6.Chin Y.W., Lim S.W., Kim S.H., Shin D.Y., Suh Y.G., Kim Y.B., Kim Y.C. & Kim J. (2003)
Hepatoprotective pyrrole derivatives of Lycium chinense fruits. Bioorg Med Chem Lett., 13(1): 79-81.
7.Ha K.T., Yoon S.J., Choi D.Y., Kim D.W., Kim J.K. & Kim C.H. (2005) Protective effect of Lycium chinense
fruit on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity. J Ethnopharmacol., 96(3): 529-535.
8.Lee D.G., Jung H.J. & Woo E.R. (2005) Antimicrobial property of (+)-lyoniresinol-3alpha-O-beta-Dglucopyranoside isolated from the root bark of Lycium chinense Miller against human pathogenic
microorganisms. Arch Pharm Res., 28(9): 1031-1036.
9.Lin R.D., Hou W.C., Yen K.Y. & Lee M.H. (2003) Inhibition of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) by Chinese
herbal medicines. Phytomedicine, 10(8): 650-656.
10.Craker L.E. & Giblette J. (2002). Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production. pp. 491496. In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
11.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
12.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Lycopodium clavatum (SHAN JIN CAO) common club moss {R11}
One of the main components of common club moss is ‘alpha-onocerin’, a well known triterpenoid
responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibiting activity and therefore of therapeutic potential in
treatment of Alzheimer's disease (1,2). In earlier work, 46 water and methanol extracts from crude
drugs were screened for Flavobacterium prolyl endopeptidase inhibition (3). Extracts from six species,
including Lycopodium clavatum showed strong inhibitory activity and may therefore have antiamnesic
effects (and cognitive benefits). L. clavatum is also one herbal component of a homeopathic remedy
(‘Hepeel’) that has exerted specific antioxidative, antiproliferative and biochemical effects on HepG2
cells, suggesting potential hepatoprotective and tumouristatic action (4).
1.Rollinger J.M., Ewelt J., Seger C., Sturm S., Ellmerer E.P. & Stuppner H. (2005) New insights into the
acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of Lycopodium clavatum. Planta Med., 71(11): 1040-1043.
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2.Orhan I., Terzioglu S. & Sener B. (2003) Alpha-onocerin: an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from Lycopodium
clavatum. Planta Med., 69(3): 265-267.
3.Tezuka Y., Fan W., Kasimu R. & Kadota S. (1999) Screening of crude drug extracts for prolyl endopeptidase
inhibitory activity. Phytomedicine, 6(3): 197-203.
4.Gebhardt R. (2003) Antioxidative, antiproliferative and biochemical effects in HepG2 cells of a homeopathic
remedy and its constituent plant tinctures tested separately or in combination. Arzneimittelforschung., 53(12):
823-830.
Lycopus lucidus (ZE LAN) bugleweed or shiny bugleweed {R9}
Phenolic compounds and flavonoids from the aerial parts of Lycopus lucidus have potent antioxidative
activity (1). The isolate ‘betulinic acid’ is reported to be a selective inducer of apoptosis in various
human cancers, and has shown antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties (2). However,
most recent research activity (through animal trials) on this plant has focussed on extract inhibition of
platelet aggregation and blood coagulation, and promotion of blood circulation (3,4,5,6).
1.Woo E.R. & Piao M.S. (2004) Antioxidative constituents from Lycopus lucidus. Arch Pharm Res., 27(2): 173176.
2.Yun Y., Han S., Park E., Yim D., Lee S., Lee C.K., Cho K. & Kim K. (2003) Immunomodulatory activity of
betulinic acid by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of macrophages. Arch Pharm Res.,
26(12): 1087-1095.
3.Tian Z., Gao N., Li L., Yu J. & Luo X. (2001) Effect of two extracted fraction from Lycopus lucidus on
coagulation function. Zhong Yao Cai., 24(7): 507-508.
4.Shi H.Z., Gao N.N., Li Y.Z., Yu J.G., Fan Q.C. & Bai G.E. (2002) Effects of active fractions from Lycopus
lucidus L. F04 on erythrocyte rheology [correction of erythrocyterheology]. Space Med Med Eng (Beijing).,
15(5): 331-334.
5.Shi H.Z., Gao N.N., Li Y.Z., Yu J.G., Fan Q.C. & Bai G.E. (2004) Effects of active fractions from Lycopus
lucidus L. F04 on platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. Space Med Med Eng (Beijing)., 17(5): 313-317.
6.Shi H.Z., Gao N.N., Li Y.Z., Yu J.G., Fan Q.C., Bai G.E. & Xin B.M. (2005) Effects of L.F04, the active
fraction of Lycopus lucidus, on erythrocytes rheological property. Chin J Integr Med., 11(2): 132-135.
Magnolia denudata (XIN YI or YU LAN) magnolia or lilytree {R6}
The antiinflammatory activities of compounds isolated from leaves of Magnolia denudata have been
assessed, and one had significant inhibitiory effects on mouse hind-paw oedema induced by
carrageenan (1). In Korea, the buds have been successfully used for management of allergic diseases.
Recent testing established that extract from the buds induced mitochondria and caspase-dependent
mast cell apoptosis, thereby supporting the view that the clinical effects of this plant depend on
pharmacological efficacy in regulating mast cell apoptosis (2).
1.Du J., Wang M.L., Chen R.Y. & Yu D.Q. (2001) Chemical constituents from the leaves of Magnolia denudata.
J Asian Nat Prod Res., 3(4): 313-319.
2.Kim G.C., Lee S.G., Park B.S., Kim J.Y., Song Y.S., Kim J.M., Yoo K.S., Huh G.Y., Jeong M.H., Lim Y.J.,
Kim H.M. & Yoo Y.H. (2003) Magnoliae flos induces apoptosis of RBL-2H3 cells via mitochondria and caspase.
Int Arch Allergy Immunol., 131(2): 101-110.
Magnolia officinalis (HOU PO) Chinese magnolia {R23}
Relevant here for its traditional use in treating asthma (1). Some support from scientific trials (eg.
2,3,4,5). There is also growing evidence that Magnolia officinalis could play an important role in
fighting cancer (6,7,8,9,10,11). ‘Honokiol’, a small molecular weight lignan isolated from M.
officinalis, showed antiangiogenic, antiinvasive and antiproliferative activities in a variety of cancers
(7,10).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Homma M., Oka K., Niitsuma T. & Itoh H. (1994) A novel 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor
contained in saiboku-to, a herbal remedy for steroid-dependent bronchial asthma. J Pharm Pharmacol., 46(4):
305-309.
3.Wang S.M., Lee L.J., Huang Y.T., Chen J.J. & Chen Y.L. (2000) Magnolol stimulates steroidogenesis in rat
adrenal cells. Br J Pharmacol., 131(6): 1172-1178.
4.Taniguchi C., Homma M., Takano O., Hirano T., Oka K., Aoyagi Y., Niitsuma T. & Hayashi T. (2000)
Pharmacological effects of urinary products obtained after treatment with saiboku-to, a herbal medicine for
bronchial asthma, on type IV allergic reaction. Planta Med., 66(7): 607-611.
5.Ko C.H., Chen H.H., Lin Y.R. & Chan M.H. (2003) Inhibition of smooth muscle contraction by magnolol and
honokiol in porcine trachea. Planta Med., 69(6): 532-536.
6.Yance D.R. Jr & Sagar S.M. (2006) Targeting angiogenesis with integrative cancer therapies. Integr Cancer
Ther., 5(1): 9-29.
7.Tse A.K., Wan C.K., Shen X.L., Yang M. & Fong W.F. (2005) Honokiol inhibits TNF-alpha-stimulated NFkappaB activation and NF-kappaB-regulated gene expression through suppression of IKK activation. Biochem
Pharmacol., 70(10):1443-1457.
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8.Battle T.E., Arbiser J. & Frank D.A. (2005) The natural product honokiol induces caspase-dependent apoptosis
in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) cells. Blood, 106(2): 690-697.
9.Yang S.E., Hsieh M.T., Tsai T.H. & Hsu S.L. (2003) Effector mechanism of magnolol-induced apoptosis in
human lung squamous carcinoma CH27 cells. Br J Pharmacol., 138(1): 193-201.
10.Bai X., Cerimele F., Ushio-Fukai M., Waqas M., Campbell P.M., Govindarajan B., Der C.J., Battle T., Frank
D.A., Ye K., Murad E., Dubiel W., Soff G. & Arbiser J.L. (2003) Honokiol, a small molecular weight natural
product, inhibits angiogenesis in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. J Biol Chem., 278(37): 35501-35507.
11.Ikeda K., Sakai Y. & Nagase H. (2003) Inhibitory effect of magnolol on tumour metastasis in mice. Phytother
Res., 17(8): 933-937.
Mallotus repandus {R13}
The crude drug ‘Thang-kau-tin’ is used in Taiwan folk medicine to treat rheumatic arthritis and
hepatitis (1). It contains the stems and roots of Mallotus repandus and components of three other plant
species. Water extracts of these plants showed superoxide radical and hydroxyl radical scavenging
activity (1). Another study of water extract of the stem confirmed antiinflammatory activity against
animal paw oedema induced by carrageenan (2).
A screening of 129 samples of Formosan plants for antihepatotoxic activity in primary cultured
hepatocytes revealed that 19 and 26 plants exhibited more than 50% inhibition against cytotoxicity
produced by carbon tetrachloride and D-galactosamine, respectively. M. repandus disclosed
significant antihepatotoxic activity in both assay methods (3).
1.Lin J.M., Lin C.C., Chen M.F., Ujiie T. & Takada A. (1995) Studies on Taiwan folk medicine, thang-kau-tin
(II): Measurement of active oxygen scavenging activity using an ESR technique. Am J Chin Med., 23(1): 43-51.
2.Lin C.C., Lin J.M. & Chiu H.F. (1992) Studies on folk medicine "thang-kau-tin" from Taiwan. (I). The antiinflammatory and liver-protective effect. Am J Chin Med., 20(1): 37-50.
3.Yang L.L., Yen K.Y., Kiso Y. & Hikino H. (1987) Antihepatotoxic actions of Formosan plant drugs. J
Ethnopharmacol., 19(1): 103-110.
Marsdenia tenacissima (TONG GUAN TENG) Rajmahal creeper or Rajmahal hemp {R7}
Used as an antiasthmatic (1). A source of polyoxypregnane glycosides (2) and steroidal glycosides (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Deng J., Shen F. & Chen D. (2006) Quantitation of seven polyoxypregnane glycosides in Marsdenia
tenacissima using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light-scattering
detection. J Chromatogr A., 1116(1-2): 83-88.
3.Shen F. & Chen D.F. (2005) Determination of C21 steroidal glycosides in Marsdenia tenacissima by
colorimetric method. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(22): 1745-1748.
Maytenus hookeri (MEI DENG MU) {R3}
This herb is used in the treatment of lung cancer, breast and ovary cancer, acute lympocytic leukaemia,
colon carcinoma and kidney carcinoma (1). Contains ‘maytansine’, an alkaloid that seems to possess
strong anticancer properties based on animal and in vitro studies (1). Limited recent research.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Melia azedarach (KU LIAN PI) [Myanmar- PAN-TAMAR] China berry, Persian lilac, toosendan,
Sichuan pagoda-tree, bead tree, bastard cedar or pride of China {R14}
Widely naturalised throughout the world (1). Used traditionally to treat arthritis and diabetes (2).
‘Toosendanin’ from the bark significantly suppressed the proliferation of tested human cancer celllines (3). Limonoid compounds from the root bark (4,5) and fruit have also shown inhibitory effects on
growth of human cancer cell-lines (6,7,8). Antibacterial and antiviral effects are reported. A large
deciduous tree up to 45 m in rainforest but much smaller in open situations (9). Found in central New
South Wales to northern Queensland, and the Northern Territory; in rainforest and moist locations near
rivers (9). Often planted as an ornamental tree.
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
3.Zhang B., Wang Z.F., Tang M.Z. & Shi YL. (2005) Growth inhibition and apoptosis-induced effect on human
cancer cells of toosendanin, a triterpenoid derivative from Chinese traditional medicine. Invest New Drugs, 23(6):
547-553.
4.Takeya K., Quio Z.S., Hirobe C. & Itokawa H. (1996) Cytotoxic trichilin-type limonoids from Melia
azedarach. Bioorg Med Chem., 4(8): 1355-1359.
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5.Itokawa H., Qiao Z.S., Hirobe C. & Takeya K. (1995) Cytotoxic limonoids and tetranortriterpenoids from
Melia azedarach. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 43(7): 1171-1175.
6.Tada K., Takido M. & Kitanaka S. (1999) Limonoids from fruit of Melia toosendan and their cytotoxic
activity. Phytochemistry, 51(6): 787-791.
7.Kim H.M., Oh G.T., Han S.B., Hong D.H., Hwang B.Y., Kim Y.H. & Lee J.J. (1994) Comparative studies of
adriamycin and 28-deacetyl sendanin on in vitro growth inhibition of human cancer cell lines. Arch Pharm Res.,
17(2): 100-103.
8.Zhou H., Hamazaki A., Fontana J.D., Takahashi H., Esumi T., Wandscheer C.B., Tsujimoto H. & Fukuyama Y.
(2004) New ring C-seco limonoids from Brazilian Melia azedarach and their cytotoxic activity. J Nat Prod.,
67(9): 1544-1547.
9.Lassak E. & McCarthy T. (2001) Australian Medicinal Plants. Pub.- Reed New Holland, JB Books, 240 pp.
Menispermum dauricum (BEI DOU GEN or YE DOU GEN) Asiatic moonseed {R21}
A Chinese medicinal herb used to treat asthma (1), hypertension and liver cancer (2). Alkaloids from
the roots/rhizomes inhibit blood platelet aggregation (3,4) and also have some cytotoxic activity (5,6).
Menispermum dauricum alkaloids also increased myocardial oxygen and coronary flow in dogs (7).
Tests on rabbits suggested that the alkaloids might play a protective role in concurrent myocardialcerebral ischaemia/reperfusion injury (8).
1.Lu Y.M., Frostl W., Dreessen J. & Knopfel T. (1994) P-type calcium channels are blocked by the alkaloid
daurisoline. Neuroreport., 5(12): 1489-1492.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Tong L. & Yue T.L. (1989) Effect of dauricine on rat and human platelet aggregation and metabolism of
arachidonic acid in washed rat platelets. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 24(2): 85-88.
4.Hu S.M., Xu S.X., Yao X.S., Cui C.B., Tezuka Y. & Kikuchi T. (1993) Dauricoside, a new glycosidal alkaloid
having an inhibitory activity against blood-platelet aggregation. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 41(10): 1866-1868.
5.Yu B.W., Meng L.H., Chen J.Y., Zhou T.X., Cheng K.F., Ding J. & Qin GW. (2001) Cytotoxic
oxoisoaporphine alkaloids from Menispermum dauricum. J Nat Prod., 64(7): 968-970.
6.Yu B.W., Chen J.Y., Wang Y.P., Cheng K.F., Li X.Y. & Qin G.W. (2002) Alkaloids from Menispermum
dauricum. Phytochemistry., 61(4): 439-442.
7.Li Y.Q., Yang X.Y., Zhou S.C. & Gong P.L. (2003) Effects of phenolic alkaloids of Menispermum dauricum
on the hemodynamics and coronary circulation in anesthetized dog. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 38(9): 658-660.
8.Wang F., Zhao G., Lu Q., Qu L. & Guo L.J. (2005) Protective effect of phenolic alkaloids from Menispermum
dauricum on myocardial cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rabbits. Zhongguo Wei Zhong Bing Ji Jiu Yi
Xue., 17(3): 154-156.
Metapanax davidii - nothopanax {R3}
In traditional Chinese medicine, the bark of this plant is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, fractures and
strains (1). The active compounds are glycosides (2,3). While there is some evidence for the medical
role of glycosides in treating human ailments, there is a lack of recent scientific literature relating to
Metapanax davidii.
1.Yu S.S., Yu D.Q. & Liang X.T. (1995) Triterpenoid saponins from the bark of Nothopanax davidii.
Phytochemistry, 38(3): 695-698.
2.Yu S.S. & Xiao Z.Y. (1992) The structures of yiyeliangwanoside III and IV from the bark of Nothopanax
davidii (France) Harms. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 27(1): 42-47.
3.Yu S.S. & Xiao Z.Y. (1991) Study on the chemical components from the bark of Nothopanax davidii (Franch)
harms. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 26(4): 261-266.
Momordica charantia - bitter melon, bitter gourd, balsam pear or karela
Current commercial crop in Australia. The unripe fruit of the bitter melon is edible and has been used
extensively in folk medicine as a remedy for diabetes. Animal trials are often supportive, as are
conclusions from earlier human experiments (1,2,3,4,5). Some reviewers conclude that the quality of
human trials in Momordica charantia research has been low and ultimately the evidence to support its
use in treating diabetes is not sufficient (6,7, 8). Other recent work points to more positive findings (9).
The truth remains confused and is typified by comments from a recent review (10) – ‘over 100 studies
using modern techniques have authenticated its use in diabetes’ and ‘there are few reports available on
clinical use of bitter melon in diabetes that have shown promising results’. In summary, bitter melon
may have hypoglycaemic effects, but current data are not sufficient to recommend its use in the
absence of careful supervision and monitoring (7).
1.Raman A. & Lau C. (1996) Anti-diabetic properties and phytochemistry of Momordica charantia. Phytomed.,
2(4): 349-362.
2.Akhtar M. (1982) Trial of Momordica charantia Linn (Karela) powder in patients with maturity-onset
diabetes. J Pak Med Assoc., 32(4): 106-107.
3.Leatherdale B.A., Panesar R.K., Singh G., Atkins T.W., Bailey C.J. & Bignell A.H. (1981) Improvement in
glucose tolerance due to Momordica charantia (karela). Br Med J (Clin Res Ed)., 282: 1823-1824.
85
4.Welihinda J., Karunanayake E.H., Sheriff M.H. & Jayasinghe K.S. (1986) Effect of Momordica charantia on
the glucose tolerance in maturity onset diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol., 17(3): 277-282.
5.Srivastava Y., Venkatakrishna-Bhatt H., Verma Y. & Venkaiah K. (1993) Antidiabetic and Adaptogenic
Properties of Momordica charantia Extract: An Experimental and Clinical Evaluation. Phytotherapy Research,
7: 285-289.
6.Ernst E. (1997) Plants with hypoglycaemic activity in humans. Phytomedicine, 4: 73-78.
7.Ethan Basch W., Gabardi S. & Ulbricht C. (2003) Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia): A Review of Efficacy
and Safety. Am J Health-Syst Pharm., 60(4): 356-359.
8.Shekelle P.G., Hardy M., Morton S.C., Coulter I., Venuturupalli S., Favreau J. & Hilton L.K.
(2005) Are Ayurvedic herbs for diabetes effective? J Fam Pract., 54(10): 876-886.
9.Tongia A., Tongia S.K. & Dave M. (2004) Phytochemical determination and extraction of Momordica
charantia fruit and its hypoglycemic potentiation of oral hypoglycemic drugs in diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).
Indian J Physiol Pharmacol., 48(2): 241-244.
10.Grover J.K. & Yadav S.P. (2004) Pharmacological actions and potential uses of Momordica charantia: a
review. J Ethnopharmacol., 93(1): 123-132.
Monascus purpureus - red yeast {R15}
This is traditionally used as a dried, powdered red-yeast-rice which is a fermentation by-product of
cooked non-glutinous rice on which red yeast has been grown. A trial in 1999 examined the
cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice supplement in an American
population using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospectively randomised 12 week controlled trial
at a university research center (1). Eighty-three healthy adult subjects with hyperlipidaemia who were
not being treated with lipid-lowering drugs participated. Subjects were treated with red-yeast- rice (2.4
g/day) or placebo and instructed to consume a diet providing 30% of energy from fat, <10% from
saturated fat, and <300 mg cholesterol daily. Main outcome measures were total cholesterol, total
triacylglycerol, and high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol measured at
weeks 8, 9, 11, and 12. It was found that total cholesterol concentrations decreased significantly
between baseline and 8 weeks in the red-yeast-rice treated group compared with the placebo-treated
group (1). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total triacylglycerol were also reduced with the
supplement. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol did not change significantly (1). It was concluded
that red-yeast-rice significantly reduced total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total
triacylglycerol concentrations compared with placebo and provided a new, novel, food-based approach
to lowering cholesterol in the general population.
Researchers have since determined that one or more ingredients in red-yeast-rice (including monacolin
K), inhibit(s) the production of cholesterol by blocking the action of a key enzyme in the liver that is
responsible for biosynthesis of cholesterol. By year 2000, monacolin K was a well-recognised
prescription drug under the United States Adopted Name ‘lovastatin’ (Mevacor®). In healthy adults
who maintained their usual diet, lovastatin produced mean reductions in serum total and LDL
cholesterol of 23 to 27% and 35 to 45 %, respectively at dosages of 6.25 to 50 mg twice daily (2). Red
yeast provides the same therapeutic profile as lovastatin (2).
In up-to-date research the serum lipid-lowering effect of Monascus purpureus was examined in
patients with hyperlipidaemia in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (3). In all, 79
patients (aged 23-65 years) with a mean baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level of 5.28
mmol/l received a twice daily dose of placebo or M. purpureus rice (600 mg) for eight weeks. At week
eight, M. purpureus rice therapy reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 27.7%, total
cholesterol by 21.5%, triglycerides by 15.8% and apolipoprotein B by 26.0% (3). High-density
lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I levels were increased by 0.9 and 3.4% respectively (not
significant). It was concluded that M. purpureus rice significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein
cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoprotein B levels, and was well tolerated in
patients with hyperlipidaemia. However, this study only provided data from an eight week trial and the
authors suggest that long-term safety and efficacy data are still needed (3).
1.Heber D., Yip I., Ashley J.M., Ashley J.M., Elashoff D.A., Elashoff R.M. & Vay Liang W. Go (1999)
Cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice dietary supplement. Am J Clin Nutr., 69:
231-236.
2.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Pub.Haworth Herbal Press, 287 pp.
3.Lin C.C., Li T.C. & Lai M.M. (2005) Efficacy and safety of Monascus purpureus Went rice in subjects with
hyperlipidemia. Eur J Endocrinol., 153(5): 679-686.
86
Morinda citrifolia [Malaysia- NONI, Myanmar- YEYO] Indian mulberry or ko-on-je-rung {R27}
This evergreen, small tree is native to many countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including tropical
northern Australia and is reported to have a broad range of therapeutic effects, including antibacterial,
antiviral, antifungal, antitumour, antihelmin, analgesic, hypotensive, antiinflammatory and immune
enhancing (1). It has been used in Polynesian traditional medicine for over 2000 years (1) and in the
mid-1990s was known worldwide as ‘Hawaiian magic fruit’ and the ‘Hawaiian miracle medicine’ (2).
There are a number of Morinda citrifolia products sold in the market as ‘Noni’ preparations; these
include juices, health tonics, applications for skin related problems, cuts and bruises (2).
This species has been relatively well investigated in recent years, although as is common with many
traditional herbal remedies there is a lack of human clinical research to support claims. The primary
active components appear to be glycosides that are present both in the fruit (3) and leaves (4). These
could contribute to cancer prevention. Antioxidative activities of some noni compounds have been
demonstrated (4,5). Based on in vitro experiments and laboratory animal tests, one study concluded
that a noni drink did prevent carcinogen-DNA adduct formation and had antioxidant activity
comparable to the effects of vitamin C and grape seed powder (6).
The fruit juice contains a polysaccharide-rich substance with antitumour activity in the Lewis lung
peritoneal carcinomatosis model (7). An immunomodulatory polysaccharide-rich substance from the
fruit juice has also been found to possess both prophylactic and therapeutic potentials against the
immunomodulator sensitive Sarcoma 180 tumour system (8); with the antitumour activity of noni
extract producing a cure rate of 25% to 45% in allogeneic mice (8).
Use of this plant as an antiinflammatory agent in Australian aboriginal medicine and traditional
Chinese medicine has been supported by recent Australian research findings (9). Potential for
Australian commercial production was recognised several years ago (10) and Queensland plantings
have been established.
1.Wang M.Y., West B.J., Jensen C.J., Nowicki D., Su C., Palu A.K. & Anderson G. (2002) Morinda citrifolia
(Noni): a literature review and recent advances in Noni research. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 23(12): 1127-1141.
2.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
3.Wang M., Kikuzaki H., Jin Y., Nakatani N., Zhu N., Csiszar K., Boyd C., Rosen R.T., Ghai G. & Ho C.T.
(2000) Novel glycosides from noni (Morinda citrifolia). J Nat Prod., 63(8): 1182-1183.
4.Sang S., Cheng X., Zhu N., Stark R.E., Badmaev V., Ghai G., Rosen R.T. & Ho C.T. (2001)
Flavonol glycosides and novel iridoid glycoside from the leaves of Morinda citrifolia. J Agric Food Chem.,
49(9): 4478-4481.
5.Su B.N., Pawlus A.D., Jung H.A., Keller W.J., McLaughlin J.L. & Kinghorn A.D. (2005) Chemical
constituents of the fruits of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) and their antioxidant activity. J Nat Prod., 68(4): 592-595.
6.Wang M.Y. & Su C. (2001) Cancer preventive effect of Morinda citrifolia (Noni). Ann N Y Acad Sci., 952:
161-168.
7.Hirazumi A. & Furusawa E. (1999) An immunomodulatory polysaccharide-rich substance from the fruit juice
of Morinda citrifolia (noni) with antitumour activity. Phytother Res., 13(5): 380-387.
8.Furusawa E., Hirazumi A., Story S. & Jensen J. (2003) Antitumour potential of a polysaccharide-rich substance
from the fruit juice of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) on sarcoma 180 ascites tumour in mice. Phytother Res., 17(10):
1158-1164.
9.Li R.W., Myers S.P., Leach D.N., Lin G.D. & Leach G. (2003) A cross-cultural study: anti-inflammatory
activity of Australian and Chinese plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 25-32.
10.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
Morinda officinalis (BA JI TIAN) morinda {R6}
The root of Morinda officinalis is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis in traditional Chinese medicine (1).
In a recent investigation, an iridoid glycoside ‘monotropein’ from this plant was tested using hot-plate
and writhing antinociceptive assays, and carrageenan-induced antiinflammatory assays in mice and
rats (1). Pretreatment with monotropein significantly reduced stretching episodes and prolonged action
time in mice, and also significantly reduced acute paw oedema of rats caused by carrageenan (1). This
antiinflammatory and antinociceptive action of M. officinalis root is reported in additional recent
research using animal models (2). Findings from animal trials also support the conclusion that M.
officinalis possesses antidepressant (3) and antistress agents (4).
87
1.Choi J., Lee K.T., Choi M.Y., Nam J.H., Jung H.J., Park S.K. & Park H.J. (2005) Antinociceptive antiinflammatory effect of Monotropein isolated from the root of Morinda officinalis. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(10):
1915-1918.
2.Kim I.T., Park H.J., Nam J.H., Park Y.M., Won J.H., Choi J., Choe B.K. & Lee K.T. (2005) In vitro and in vivo
anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the methanol extract of the roots of Morinda officinalis. J Pharm
Pharmacol., 57(5): 607-615.
3.Zhang Z.Q., Yuan L., Yang M., Luo Z.P. & Zhao Y.M. (2002) The effect of Morinda officinalis How, a
Chinese traditional medicinal plant, on the DRL 72-s schedule in rats and the forced swimming test in mice.
Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 72(1-2): 39-43.
4.Li Y.F., Yuan L., Xu Y.K., Yang M., Zhao Y.M. & Luo Z.P. (2001) Antistress effect of oligosaccharides
extracted from Morinda officinalis in mice and rats. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 22(12): 1084-1088.
Moringa oleifera [Myanmar- DANT-DA-LUN] drumstick tree or Indian horse-radish {R18}
Traditional Myanmar medicinal uses include treatment for asthma, confusion, heart disease and cancer
(1). The leaves are a rich source of ‘kaempferol’ (2). A study of 11 plants used in Bangladeshi folk
medicine found that Moringa oleifera was only one of three that could be considered as a potential
source of anticancer compounds based on animal and in vitro cell tests (3). Research findings (nonhuman) also suggest possible chemopreventive potential against chemical carcingenesis (4,5).
Significant blood glucose lowering (hypoglycaemic) activity has been observed in rats (6). In Africa,
the traditional use is for rheumatic and articulary pain, and trials have confirmed that the roots contain
antiinflammatory principles (7).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Bajpai M., Pande A., Tewari S.K. & Prakash D. (2005) Phenolic contents and antioxidant activity of some food
and medicinal plants. Int J Food Sci Nutr., 56(4): 287-291.
3.Costa-Lotufo L.V., Khan M.T., Ather A., Wilke D.V., Jimenez P.C., Pessoa C., de Moraes M.E. & de Moraes
M.O. (2005) Studies of the anticancer potential of plants used in Bangladeshi folk medicine. J Ethnopharmacol.,
99(1): 21-30.
4.Bharali R., Tabassum J. & Azad M.R. (2003) Chemomodulatory effect of Moringa oleifera, Lam, on hepatic
carcinogen metabolising enzymes, antioxidant parameters and skin papillomagenesis in mice. Asian Pac J
Cancer Prev., 4(2): 131-139.
5.Guevara A.P., Vargas C., Sakurai H., Fujiwara Y., Hashimoto K., Maoka T., Kozuka M., Ito Y., Tokuda H. &
Nishino H. (1999) An antitumor promoter from Moringa oleifera Lam. Mutat Res., 440(2): 181-188.
6.Kar A., Choudhary B.K. & Bandyopadhyay N.G. (2003) Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of
some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 84(1): 105-108.
7.Ndiaye M., Dieye A.M., Mariko F., Tall A., Sall Diallo A. & Faye B. (2002) Contribution to the study of the
anti-inflammatory activity of Moringa oleifera (moringaceae). Dakar Med., 47(2): 210-212.
Morus alba (SANG) white mulberry {R11}
Traditional practitioners use Morus alba for asthma, rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis and
hypertension (1,2,3). Recent data suggests that antioxidants from this plant may be useful in the
protection of cardiotoxicity in patients who receive ‘doxorubicin’ (an anticancer drug) (4). In another
recent study, the hypoglycaemic activity of the flavonoid rich fraction of 70% alcohol extract of M.
alba root bark was evaluated after feeding to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (5). Administration
of the extract for 10 days significantly reduced the glucose amount from control level to a lower level,
and significantly increased the insulin level from control.
Although native to China, this species is widely cultivated in temperate regions, naturalised in tropical
and Southern Africa, United States and South America (6). Commercial production in Australia is
unlikely to be economically advantageous.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Yamatake Y., Shibata M. & Nagai M. (1976) Pharmacological studies on root bark of mulberry tree (Morus
alba L.) Jpn J Pharmacol., 26(4): 461-469.
4.Wattanapitayakul S.K., Chularojmontri L., Herunsalee A., Charuchongkolwongse S., Niumsakul S. & Bauer
J.A. (2005) Screening of antioxidants from medicinal plants for cardioprotective effect against doxorubicin
toxicity. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol., 96(1): 80-87.
5.Singab A.N., El-Beshbishy H.A., Yonekawa M., Nomura T. & Fukai T. (2005) Hypoglycemic effect of
Egyptian Morus alba root bark extract: effect on diabetes and lipid peroxidation of streptozotocin-induced
diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 100(3): 333-338.
6.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
88
Mucuna birdwoodiana (JI XUE TENG) {R2}
The dried stem has been traditionally used to promote blood circulation, to reduce pain in the waist
and knees, alleviate numbness in the extremities and reduce arthralgia (1). However, very little
knowledge of this usage is documented in the scientific literature. Nonetheless, this species may have
importance in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (a neurodegenerative disease). One of the
therapeutic approaches to this disease is to increase the concentration of dopamine precursor by
administering L-DOPA. This compound is found in various species of bean, notably Mucuna spp., in
sufficient concentrations to make their growing and harvesting economically worthwhile, although the
drug is now mainly obtained by synthesis (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Houghton P. (2005) Use of medicinal plants in CNS disorders, pp. 353-382. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.),
‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
Murraya paniculata (JIU LI XIANG) Chinese box, kemuning, cosmetic bark tree or jasmine
orange {R14}
Used in traditional Chinese medicine and native to India, southern China, Malaysia and Australia
(Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia) (1). In Queensland, it is a popular ornamental but
also a weed. Contains immunoreactive isoflavonoids (1) and has possible antifertility actions (2).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Lapcik O., Klejdus B., Davidova M., Kokoska L., Kuban V. & Moravcova J. (2004) Isoflavonoids in the
Rutaceae family: 1. Fortunella obovata, Murraya paniculata and four Citrus species. Phytochem Anal., 15(5):
293-299.
3.Pei Gen X. & Nai Gong W. (1991) Can ethnopharmacology contribute to the development of anti-fertility
drugs? J Ethnopharmacol., 32(1-3): 167-177.
Myrica rubra (YANG MEI) red bayberry {R12}
Focus of recent Australian research (1) with trial plantings proposed. Fruit extracts containing
anthocyanins and flavonols have displayed free radical scavenging activity (2). In vitro testing has
revealed some anticancer activity (3,4,5).
1.Joyce D., Tahir Khurshid, Shiming Liu, McGregor G., Jianrong Li & Yueming Jiang (2005) Red bayberry - a
new and exciting crop for Australia? Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Pub. No. 05/081,
26 pp.
2.Bao J., Cai Y., Sun M., Wang G. & Corke H. (2005) Anthocyanins, flavonols, and free radical scavenging
activity of Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra) extracts and their color properties and stability. J Agric Food Chem.,
53(6): 2327-2332.
3.Kuo P.L., Hsu Y.L., Lin T.C., Lin L.T. & Lin C.C. (2004) Induction of apoptosis in human breast
adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells by prodelphinidin B-2 3,3'-di-O-gallate from Myrica rubra via Fas-mediated
pathway. J Pharm Pharmacol., 56(11): 1399-1406.
4.Kuo P.L., Hsu Y.L., Lin T.C. & Lin C.C. (2004) Prodelphinidin B-2 3,3'-di-O-gallate from Myrica rubra
inhibits proliferation of A549 carcinoma cells via blocking cell cycle progression and inducing apoptosis. Eur J
Pharmacol., 501(1-3): 41-48.
5.Yang L.L., Chang C.C., Chen L.G. & Wang C.C. (2003) Antitumor principle constituents of Myrica rubra Var.
acuminata. J Agric Food Chem., 51(10): 2974-2979.
Nardostachys chinensis (GAN SONG) Chinese spikenard {R10}
Extract repels mosquitoes (1). Nardosinone from Nardostachys chinensis caused marked enhancement
of nerve growth factor-mediated neurite outgrowth from PC12D cells (2,3) and may therefore facilitate
neurobehavioural activities.
1.Yang Y.C., Lee E.H., Lee H.S., Lee D.K. & Ahn Y.J. (2004) Repellency of aromatic medicinal plant extracts
and a steam distillate to Aedes aegypti. J Am Mosq Control Assoc., 20(2): 146-149.
2.Li P., Matsunaga K., Yamamoto K., Yoshikawa R., Kawashima K. & Ohizumi Y. (1999) Nardosinone, a novel
enhancer of nerve growth factor in neurite outgrowth from PC12D cells. Neurosci Lett., 273(1): 53-56.
3.Li P., Yamakuni T., Matsunaga K., Kondo S. & Ohizumi Y. (2003) Nardosinone enhances nerve growth factorinduced neurite outgrowth in a mitogen-activated protein kinase- and protein kinase C-dependent manner in
PC12D cells. J Pharmacol Sci., 93(1): 122-125.
89
Nelumbo nucifera (LIAN) lotus
Current commercial crop in Australia. Has been the subject of considerable research by RIRDC.
Traditionally used as an antihypertensive (1). Commonly used as an antiaging food in China (2). In
recent work, the antiobesity effect of Nelumbo nucifera leaf extract was examined in mice (3). The
extract impaired digestion, inhibited absorption of lipids and carbohydrates, accelerated lipid
metabolism and up-regulated energy expenditure.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Yi Dang (2005) Antiaging properties of Asian functional foods: a histroical topic closely linked to longevity,
pp. 120-144. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & Shahidi F. (Eds.) ‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor &
Francis Group, 647 pp.
3.Ono Y., Hattori E., Fukaya Y., Imai S. & Ohizumi Y. (2006) Anti-obesity effect of Nelumbo nucifera leaves
extract in mice and rats. J. Ethnopharmacol., 106(2): 238-244.
Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora (HU HUANG LIAN) picrorhiza {R9}
Rich in glycosides (1,2) with possible antioxidative effects (3). Possible nerve growth factorpotentiating activity (4).
1.Kim I.H., Kaneko N., Uchiyama N., Lee J.E., Takeya K., Kawahara N. & Goda Y. (2006) Two
phenylpropanoid glycosides from Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 54(2): 275-277.
2.Wang H., Ye W.C., Xiong F. & Zhao S.X. (2004) Phenylethanoid glycosides from root of Picrorhiza
scrophulariiflora. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(6): 531-534.
3.Wang H., Sun Y., Ye W.C., Xiong F., Wu J.J., Yang C.H. & Zhao S.X. (2004) Antioxidative phenylethanoid
and phenolic glycosides from Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 52(5): 615-617.
4.Li P., Matsunaga K. & Ohizumi Y. (1999) Enhancement of the nerve growth factor-mediated neurite outgrowth
from PC12D cells by Chinese and Paraguayan medicinal plants. Biol Pharm Bull., 22(7): 752-755.
Nerium oleander (JIA ZHU TAO) oleander, rose bay or rose-laurel {R4}
The active principle is the glycoside ‘oleandrin’ which can increase myocardial contractility, slow the
heart rate and increase stroke volume (1). Used to treat congestive heart failure in China but case
reports do not indicate that the benefits are better than those of digitalis (1,2). Extracts from this
species have attracted more recent interest in antitumour research (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
3.Smith J.A., Madden T., Vijjeswarapu M. & Newman R.A. (2001) Inhibition of export of fibroblast growth
factor-2 (FGF-2) from the prostate cancer cell lines PC3 and DU145 by Anvirzel and its cardiac glycoside
component, oleandrin. Biochem Pharmacol., 62(4): 469-472.
Notopterygium forbesii (QIANG HUO) notopterygium {R5}
Notopterygium forbesii can antagonise heart arrhythmia induced by aconitine and was at one time
proposed as an antiarrhythmic drug (1).
1.Zhu X. & Chu R. (1990) A comparison of anti-arrhythmic effects of four kinds of rhizoma seu radix
Nomopterygii. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 15(6): 366-8, 385.
Notopterygium incisum (QIANG HUO) notopterygium {R8}
Notopterygium incisum can antagonise heart arrhythmia induced by aconitine and prolong ventricular
vibration induced by CaCl2 (1). Thus it was once proposed as a possible antiarrhythmic drug (1).
1.Zhu X. & Chu R. (1990) A comparison of anti-arrhythmic effects of four kinds of rhizoma seu radix
Nomopterygii. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 15(6): 366-8, 385.
Ocimum basilicum [Myanmar- PIN PWA] basil, common basil or sweet basil
Current commercial crop in Australia. Recent work using an aqueous extract of Ocimum basilicum
established that it inhibited platelet aggregation and resulted in an antithrombotic effect in rats (1).
1.Tohti I., Tursun M., Umar A., Turdi S., Imin H. & Moore N. (2006) Aqueous extracts of Ocimum basilicum L.
(sweet basil) decrease platelet aggregation induced by ADP and thrombin in vitro and rats arterio-venous shunt
thrombosis in vivo. Thromb Res ., 2006 Feb 7; [Epub ahead of print].
Ocimum tenuiflorum - Holy basil or sacred basil {R14}
Native to India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. Research has shown that this
species is a powerful antioxidant and has antiinflammatory properties. Its antiinflammatory activity is
as effective as some commercial drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen but without the side-effects of
some commercial drugs (1). Ocimum tenuiflorum is traditionally used to treat diabetes (2). In a study
90
published in 1996, O. tenuiflorum was found to have the ability to lower blood glucose levels in noninsulin dependent diabetic patients, and it could also protect the pancreatic cells that produce insulin
(3). Extracts from the leaves also showed good activity against three methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus strains (4). Current commercial crop in Australia; the leaves are most
commonly stir-fried.
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Grover J.K., Yadav S. & Vats V. (2002) Medicinal plants of India with anti-diabetic potential. J
Ethnopharmacol., 81(1): 81-100.
3.Agrawal P., Rai V. & Singh R.B. (1996) Randomized placebo-controlled, single blind trial of holy basil leaves
in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther., 34(9): 406-409.
4.Aqil F., Khan M.S., Owais M. & Ahmad I. (2005) Effect of certain bioactive plant extracts on clinical isolates
of beta-lactamase producing methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Basic Microbiol., 45(2): 106-114.
Oenanthe javanica - water dropwort, Javan water dropwort, Chinese celery or Indian
pennywort {R12}
Since ancient times this plant has been widely cultivated in China. The Department of Food Science
and Technology in South Korea recently reported that it has antihypertensive properties and is suitably
used as an additive in nutraceutical drink products (1). Oenanthe javanica injections were found to
significantly antagonise heart arrhythmias induced in rats and decreased rates of ventricular fibrillation
and death (2). A study which injected diabetic mice with O. javanica flavone determined that it
possessed hypoglycaemic and hypotriglyceride actions (3).
This plant which is a member of the celery family (Apiaceae/Umbelliferae) is a native to Queensland
(4) and has been previously identified as a potential new crop for Australia (5). O. javanica is a
perennial herb with creeping stolons that produce ascending stems to 100 cm (1). Its natural habitat is
warm, wet swampy areas. It requires wet soil and can grow in water. The tender shoots and young
leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Leaves are also used as a seasoning in soups. Flavour is carrot- or
parsley-like. Young shoots that sprout from the root in winter are best; the root is also edible. O.
javanica is cultivated as a minor vegetable in many parts of the world.
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Ji G., Yao X., Zang Z. & Huang Z. (1990) Antiarrhythmic effect of Oenanthe javanica (Bl.) DC. Injection.
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 15(7): 429-31, 448.
3.Yang X.B., Huang Z.M., Cao W.B., Zheng M., Chen H.Y. & Zhang J.Z. (2000) Antidiabetic effect of
Oenanthe javanica flavone. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 21(3): 239-242.
4.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
5.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Oldenlandia diffusa (BAI HUA SHE SHE CAO) hedyotis {R23}
A common weed in China (1) that is used for its anticancer activity (2). Good evidence exists from
animal/in vitro studies to indicate that extracts from this plant have strong antitumour effects (eg.
3,4,5,6).
1.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Yu HsuehChiu, Suzuki S., Okubo T., Kawashima I., Tsuda M., Borai N.E., Yamamura M. & Yu H.C. (2000)
Anti-tumor effect of Chinese herbal medicines "Scutellaria barbata and Oldenlandia diffusa" on cancer cell lines
and C3H-AVy mouse with spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma. J of Traditional Medicines, 17: 165-169.
4.Gupta S., Zhang D., Yi J. & Shao J. (2004) Anticancer activities of Oldenlandia diffusa. J Herb Pharmacother.,
4(1): 21-33.
5.Shan B.E., Zhang J.Y. & Du X.N. (2001) Immunomodulatory activity and anti-tumor activity of Oldenlandia
diffusa in vitro. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 21(5): 370-374.
6.Wong B.Y., Lau B.H., Jia T.Y. & Wan C.P. (1996) Oldenlandia diffusa and Scutellaria barbata augment
macrophage oxidative burst and inhibit tumor growth. Cancer Biother Radiopharm., 11(1): 51-56.
91
Ophiopogon japonicus (MAI DONG) dwarf lilyturf, mondograss, ophiopogon or
snake's beard {R25}
Commonly grown as an ornamental in the West, including Australia. Ophiopogon japonicus is used in
China for treating heart disease. Clinical trials on 101 patients with angina showed a 74 to 78%
effective response rate to this herb (1). Cardioprotective effects have also been demonstrated in animal
studies (2,3,4,5,6).
Shengmai San, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine including O. japonicus showed potential in both
preventive and therapeutic usages for cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rat trials (7,8). Another
study on rats with induced amnesia concluded that O. japonicus possessed cognition-enhancing
activities and antiamnestic effects (9).
Recent research investigated antiinflammatory effects of the aqueous extract from O. japonicus in
mouse and rat models (10). Results demonstrated that the extract possessed remarkable
antiinflammatory activity and ‘ruscogenin’ and ‘ophiopogonin D’ were two of its active components.
Traditional use in the treatment of various diseases associated with inflammation was seen to be
supported by these findings (10).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chen M., Yang Z.W., Zhu J.T., Xiao Z.Y. & Xiao R. (1990) Anti-arrhythmic effects and electrophysiological
properties of Ophiopogon total saponins. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao., 11(2): 161-165.
3.Wang Q.J., Lu W.W., Lu H., Liu F., Yang S.J., Hua Y.Q. & Ji S.X. (2003) Protective effect of qi dong yi xin
on acute myocardial infarction in dogs. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(5): 449-452.
4.Tao J., Wang H., Zhou H. & Li S. (2005) The saponin monomer of dwarf lilyturf tuber, DT-13, reduces L-type
calcium currents during hypoxia in adult rat ventricular myocytes. Life Sci., 77(24): 3021-3030.
5.Kou J., Yu B. & Xu Q. (2005) Inhibitory effects of ethanol extract from Radix Ophiopogon japonicus on
venous thrombosis linked with its endothelium-protective and anti-adhesive activities. Vascul Pharmacol., 43(3):
157-163.
6.Tao J., Wang H., Chen J., Xu H. & Li S. (2005) Effects of saponin monomer 13 of dwarf lilyturf tuber on Ltype calcium currents in adult rat ventricular myocytes. Am J Chin Med., 33(5): 797-806.
7.Xuejiang W., Magara T. & Konishi T. (1999) Prevention and repair of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by
Chinese herbal medicine, shengmai san, in rats. Free Radic Res., 31(5): 449-455.
8.Ichikawa H., Wang X. & Konishi T. (2003) Role of component herbs in antioxidant activity of shengmai san a traditional Chinese medicine formula preventing cerebral oxidative damage in rat. Am J Chin Med., 31(4): 509521.
9.Lin Y.C., Wu C.R., Lin C.J. & Hsieh M.T. (2003) The ameliorating effects of cognition-enhancing Chinese
herbs on scopolamine- and MK-801-induced amnesia in rats. Am J Chin Med., 31(4): 543-549.
10.Kou J., Sun Y., Lin Y., Cheng Z., Zheng W., Yu B. & Xu Q. (2005) Anti-inflammatory activities of aqueous
extract from Radix Ophiopogon japonicus and its two constituents. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(7): 1234-1238.
Oroxylum indicum [Myanmar- KYAUNG-SHA, Malaysia- KAMPONG] oroxylum, Indian
trumpet flower or midnight horror {R7}
This plant is used in Asian folk medicine for heart diseases, abdominal tumours and asthma (1). Most
of the available scientific literature has focussed on potential anticancer properties. One study
evaluated the anticancer potential of 11 plants used in Bangladeshi folk medicine and found that
Oroxylum indicum showed the highest toxicity on all tested tumour cell-lines (2). Extracts from this
plant have also shown antiproliferation activity on breast cancer cell-lines (3). In other work, the
antimutagenic activity against Trp-P-1 of methanolic extracts of 118 samples (108 species) of edible
Thai plants was examined by the Ames Test (4). Five plants, including O. indicum, exhibited
significant activity with antimutagenic ED90 values lower than 5 microL/plate (0.1 mg of dry plant
material equivalent).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Costa Lotufo L.V., Khan M.T., Ather A., Wilke D.V., Jimenez P.C., Pessoa C., de Moraes M.E. & de Moraes
M.O. (2005) Studies of the anticancer potential of plants used in Bangladeshi folk medicine. J Ethnopharmacol.,
99(1): 21-30.
3.Lambertini E., Piva R., Khan M.T., Lampronti I., Bianchi N., Borgatti M. & Gambari R. (2004) Effects of
extracts from Bangladeshi medicinal plants on in vitro proliferation of human breast cancer cell lines and
expression of estrogen receptor alpha gene. Int J Oncol., 24(2): 419-423.
4.Nakahara K., Trakoontivakorn G., Alzoreky N.S., Ono H., Onishi-Kameyama M. & Yoshida M. (2002)
Antimutagenicity of some edible Thai plants, and a bioactive carbazole alkaloid, mahanine, isolated from
Micromelum minutum. J Agric Food Chem., 50(17): 4796-4802.
92
Orthosiphon aristatus [Indonesia- KUMIS KUCING] Java tea or cat’s whiskers {R6}
Distributed naturally through India, Indonesia, Malaysia and parts of tropical Australia (Queensland),
and a popular garden plant (1,2). The dried leaves were exported to Europe in 1886, and soon became
a popular herbal tea in Europe (2). Used for the blood circulatory system, diabetes, rheumatism, as a
diuretic, and to treat bacterial infections and inflammations of the urinary tract (2).
Research has shown that aqueous extracts of Orthosiphon aristatus exhibited considerable
antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans (3). Antihypertensive properties have been
demonstrated for rats (4,5). Chinese traditional use in renal disease has some support (6).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
3.Chen C.P., Lin C.C. & Namba T. (1989) Screening of Taiwanese crude drugs for antibacterial activity against
Streptococcus mutans. J Ethnopharmacol., 27(3): 285-295.
4.Ohashi K., Bohgaki T. & Shibuya H. (2000) Antihypertensive substance in the leaves of kumis kucing
(Orthosiphon aristatus) in Java Island. Yakugaku Zasshi., 120(5): 474-482.
5.Matsubara T., Bohgaki T., Watarai M., Suzuki H., Ohashi K. & Shibuya H. (1999) Antihypertensive actions of
methylripariochromene A from Orthosiphon aristatus, an Indonesian traditional medicinal plant. Biol Pharm
Bull., 22(10): 1083-1088.
6.Yoshimura H., Sugawara K., Saito M., Saito S., Murakami S., Miyata N., Kawashima A., Morimoto S., Gao
N., Zhang X. & Yang J. (2003) In vitro TGF-beta1 antagonistic activity of ursolic and oleanolic acids isolated
from Clerodendranthus spicatus. Planta Med., 69(7): 673-675.
Paederia foetida [India- GANDHAVADULIA, GANDHALI] lesser Malayan stinkwort, Chinese
moon creeper or skunk vine {R6}
A traditional remedy for rheumatism (1). Results from in vitro and animal trials have indicated that
there is some rationale behind the ethnomedical use of Paederia foetida for treating inflammatory
disorders (2). Possible noxious weed/invasive species (3).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.De S., Ravishankar B. & Bhavsar G.C. (1994) Investigation of the anti-inflammatory effects of Paederia
foetida. J Ethnopharmacol., 43(1): 31-38.
3.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Paeonia lactiflora (BAI SHAO) Chinese p(a)eony or common garden p(a)eony {R22}
Antiinflammatory, antioxidative, antihepatic injury and immunoregulatory activities of the total
glucosides of Paeonia lactiflora root have been extensively proven for many years (1). The
antiinflammatory effects of the total glucosides of paeony have been recently demonstrated in rat trials
(2). JCICM-6, an antiarthritic herbal formula including P. lactiflora was examined in regards to
reducing experimentally-induced inflammation using nine animal models (3). Results indicated that
JCICM-6 possessed significant antiinflammatory and analgesic effects, which implies that it would be
a potential candidate for further investigation as a new antiarthritic botanical drug for humans.
P. lactiflora is also used in humans as a cognition enhancer (4). The effects of ‘paeoniflorin’ isolated
from peony were examined in aging-induced learning deficit in rats (5). Daily administration of
paeoniflorin significantly attenuated learning impairment in aged rats, whereas it did not affect the
learning in young rats. These data indicate the therapeutic potential of paeoniflorin in the treatment of
senile dementia and aging-induced cognitive dysfunction (5). How paeoniflorin influences neuronal
and neuroendocrine function has been recently investigated in rodent cells (6).
Extracts from P. lactiflora are used as a muscle relaxant and have been successful in treating angina
(1). Paeonia, ginseng and Stevia rebaudiana were used to treat angina with a 93% success rate in
symptoms, a 53% improvement in ECG and significant improvement in microcirculation (1).
Components from the roots exhibited an endothelium-dependent vasodilator effect on isolated rat aorta
(7). Intravenous injection of paeoniflorin reversed guanethidine-induced hypotension in rats (8).
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Paeoniflorin has shown a lowering effect on cholesterol levels in experimentally-induced
hyperlipidaemic rats (9). Paeoniflorin significantly lowered total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein
and triglyceride levels compared with a control group.
Paeoniflorin and 8-debenzoylpaeoniflorin from the dried root produced a significant blood sugar
lowering effect in streptozotocin-treated rats (10). Plasma insulin was not changed in paeoniflorintreated normoglycaemic rats indicating an insulin-independent action. Also, this glucoside reduced the
elevation of blood sugar in glucose challenged rats. Increase of glucose utilisation by paeoniflorin can
thus be considered (10).
Potential for Australian production as a medicinal herb (11); currently produced as an ornamental.
1.Liu D.F., Wei W. & Song L.H. (2006) Protective effect of paeoniflorin on immunological liver injury induced
by bacillus Calmette-Guerin plus lipopolysaccharide: modulation of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin6 MRNA. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol., 33(4): 332-339.
2.Zheng Y.Q. & Wei W. (2005) Total glucosides of paeony suppresses adjuvant arthritis in rats and intervenes
cytokine-signaling between different types of synoviocytes. Int Immunopharmacol., 5(10): 1560-1573.
3.Zhou H., Wong Y.F., Cai X., Liu Z.Q., Jiang Z.H., Bian Z.X., Xu H.X. & Liu L. (2006) Suppressive effects of
JCICM-6, the extract of an anti-arthritic herbal formula, on the experimental inflammatory and nociceptive
models in rodents. Biol Pharm Bull., 29(2): 253-260.
4.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
5.Ohta H., Matsumoto K., Shimizu M. & Watanabe H.P (1994) aeoniflorin attenuates learning impairment of
aged rats in operant brightness discrimination task. Pharmacol Biochem Behav., 49(1): 213-217.
6.Tsai T.Y., Wu S.N., Liu Y.C., Wu A.Z. & Tsai Y.C. (2005) Inhibitory action of L-type Ca2+ current by
paeoniflorin, a major constituent of peony root, in NG108-15 neuronal cells. Eur J Pharmacol., 523(1-3): 16-24.
7.Goto H., Shimada Y., Akechi Y., Kohta K., Hattori M. & Terasawa K. (1996) Endothelium-dependent
vasodilator effect of extract prepared from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora on isolated rat aorta. Planta Med.,
62(5): 436-439.
8.Cheng J.T., Wang C.J. & Hsu F.L. (1999) Paeoniflorin reverses guanethidine-induced hypotension via
activation of central adenosine A1 receptors in Wistar rats. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol., 26(10): 815-816.
9.Yang H.O., Ko W.K., Kim J.Y. & Ro H.S. (2004) Paeoniflorin: an antihyperlipidemic agent from Paeonia
lactiflora. Fitoterapia., 75(1): 45-49.
10.Hsu F.L., Lai C.W. & Cheng J.T. (1997) Antihyperglycemic effects of paeoniflorin and 8debenzoylpaeoniflorin, glucosides from the root of Paeonia lactiflora. Planta Med., 63(4): 323-325.
11.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Paeonia suffruticosa (MU DAN) tree peony or mountain peony {R25}
Small shrub to 1.5 m. Widely cultivated in temperate regions and a popular garden ornament in the
West; produced as an ornamental plant in Australia. One of the 11 most important cultivated medicinal
plants in China (1). Extracts from this plant have been shown to possess potent in vitro antioxidant
(2,3), antimutagenic and antiproliferative (4) effects. Other work showed that 1,2,3,4,6-Penta-Ogalloyl-beta-D-glucose (PGG) from the root could protect neuronal cells from oxidative stress via the
induction of heme oxygenase-1 gene expression (5). PGG has also been investigated for vasorelaxant
and antiinflammatory effects (which link to traditional uses) (6). In vitro results suggested that PGG
dilates vascular smooth muscle and suppresses processes of vascular inflammation.
1.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
2.Liu F. & Ng T.B. (2000) Antioxidative and free radical scavenging activities of selected medicinal herbs. Life
Sci., 66(8): 725-735.
3.Lee S.E., Hwang H.J., Ha J.S., Jeong H.S. & Kim J.H. (2003) Screening of medicinal plant extracts for
antioxidant activity. Life Sci., 73(2): 167-179.
4.Oh G.S., Pae H.O., Oh H., Hong S.G., Kim I.K., Chai K.Y., Yun Y.G., Kwon T.O. & Chung H.T. (2001)
In vitro anti-proliferative effect of 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose on human hepatocellular carcinoma
cell line, SK-HEP-1 cells. Cancer Lett., 174(1): 17-24.
5.Choi B.M., Kim H.J., Oh G.S., Pae H.O., Oh H., Jeong S., Kwon T.O., Kim Y.M. & Chung H.T. (2002)
1,2,3,4,6-Penta-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose protects rat neuronal cells (Neuro 2A) from hydrogen peroxidemediated cell death via the induction of heme oxygenase-1. Neurosci Lett., 328(2): 185-189.
6.Kang D.G., Moon M.K., Choi D.H., Lee J.K., Kwon T.O. & Lee H.S. (2005) Vasodilatory and antiinflammatory effects of the 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose (PGG) via a nitric oxide-cGMP pathway.
Eur J Pharmacol., 524(1-3): 111-119.
7.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
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Panax ginseng (REN SHEN or GINSENG) Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, Asian ginseng or
Asiatic ginseng
One of the 11 most important cultivated medical plants in China (1). A relatively new commercial crop
in the cooler parts of Australia (2). Possibly one of the forty most important herbs in industrialised
Western countries (3). Chinese or Korean ginseng is a small perennial plant native to the damp
woodlands of northern China, Manchuria and Korea. Ginseng is the most famous medicinal plant of
China, where it is generally used alone or with other herbs for revitalising properties, especially after
illness (3). The mental and physical antifatigue effects of ginseng have been demonstrated in both
animal studies and double-blind clinical trials in humans (3). And, in an experimental double-blind
study on human patients, ginseng showed tendency to increase simple mental reactions and improved
abstract thinking (3). Administration of Chinese ginseng may also inhibit cancer development; there is
evidence from at least three human observational studies (4). Antihypertensive activity is also reported
(5).
1.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
2.Hosemans C. (2004) Ginseng, pp. 245-250. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Aust. Gov. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.
3.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
4.Huo Hsiung Lee, Hideji Itokawa & Mutsuo Kozuka (2005) Asian Herbal Products: The basis for development
of high-quality dietary supplements and new medicines, pp. 21- 72. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & Shahidi F. (Eds.),
‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
5.Lacaille-Dubois M. (2005) Bioactive saponins from plants: recent developments, pp. 399-428. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
Panax notoginseng (SAN QI) notoginseng, sanchi ginseng, tienchi or South China ginseng {R13}
One of the 11 most important cultivated medical plants in China (1). This ginseng exerts a major effect
on the cardiovascular system. It dilates the coronary vessels and reduces vascular resistance, resulting
in increased flow and decreased blood pressure (2). Recent studies have shown that a preparation from
this herb can produce a 95.5% improvement in symptoms of angina pectoris and 83% improvement in
the electrocardiogram pattern (2). Recognised as a potential new crop for Australia (3).
1.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
2.Huo-Hsiung Lee, Hideji Itokawa & Mutsuo Kozuka (2005) Asian Herbal Products: The basis for development
of high-quality dietary supplements and new medicines, pp. 21- 72. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & Shahidi F. (Eds.) ‘Asian
Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 647 pp.
3.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Panax pseudoginseng (SAN QI) pseudoginseng, Himalayan ginseng or Nepal ginseng {R11}
This species is primarily used in the treatment of heart disease and circulatory disorders and some
support for efficacy comes from animal trials (1). ‘Trilinolein’, a triacylglycerol purified from Panax
pseudoginseng is believed to be the myocardial protective agent, and may act through antioxidant
activity (2,3).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Chan P., Hong C.Y., Tomlinson B., Chang N.C., Chen J.P., Lee S.T. & Cheng JT. (1997) Myocardial
protective effect of trilinolein: an antioxidant isolated from the medicinal plant Panax pseudoginseng. Life Sci.,
61(20): 1999-2006.
3.Chan P. & Tomlinson B. (2000) Antioxidant effects of Chinese traditional medicine: focus on trilinolein
isolated from the Chinese herb sanchi (Panax pseudoginseng). J Clin Pharmacol., 40(5): 457-461.
95
Panax zingiberensis (SAN QI) ginger-like san qi or ginger ginseng {R6}
This species is seriously threatened in the wild (1). The roots/rhizomes are rich in saponins, and
Panax zingiberensis is said to exert a major effect in dilating coronary vessels by reducing vascular
resistance, this results in increased coronary flow and a lowering of blood pressure (2). Human studies
in treatment of angina pectoris have shown that this herb can produce a 95.5% improvement in
symptoms and 83% improvement in ECG pattern; it also lowered blood cholesterol levels (2).
‘Zingibroside R1’ isolated from rhizomes showed some anti-human immunodeficiency virus-1 activity
which was found to be superior to that of glycyrrhizin (3).
1.Tran Q.L., Than M.M., Tezuka Y., Banskota A.H., Kouda K., Watanabe H., Zhu S., Komatsu K., Thet M.M.,
Swe T., Maruyama Y. & Kadota S. (2003) Wild ginseng grows in Myanmar. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 51(6):
679-682.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Hasegawa H., Matsumiya S., Uchiyama M., Kurokawa T., Inouye Y., Kasai R., Ishibashi S. & Yamasaki K.
Inhibitory effect of some triterpenoid saponins on glucose transport in tumor cells and its application to in vitro
cytotoxic and antiviral activities. Planta Med., 60(3): 240-243.
Patrinia scabiosifolia (BAI JIANG CAO) {R12}
Numerous phytochemical studies have examined this species for the basis of its sedative and hypnotic
effects used in Chinese traditional medicine (1,2). Patrinia scabiosaefolia has also been suggested for
cancer therapy. In a recent study, an ethyl acetate extract of P. scabiosaefolia retarded human breast
carcinoma MCF-7 cell growth in vitro by possibly activating the caspase-independent mitochondrial
cell death pathway (3).
1.Luo H.C., Cui Y.H., Shen Y.C. & Lou Z.Q. (1986) Clinical observation and pharmacological investigation of
the sedative and hypnotic effects of the Chinese drug rhizome and root of Patrinia scabiosaefolia Fisch. J Tradit
Chin Med., 6(2): 89-94.
2.Nakanishi T., Tanaka K., Murata H., Somekawa M. & Inada A. (1993) Phytochemical studies of seeds of
medicinal plants. III. Ursolic acid and oleanolic acid glycosides from seeds of Patrinia scabiosaefolia Fischer.
Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 41(1): 183-186.
3.Chiu L.C., Ho T.S., Wong E.Y. & Ooi V.E. (2006) Ethyl acetate extract of Patrinia scabiosaefolia
downregulates anti-apoptotic Bcl-2/Bcl-X(L) expression, and induces apoptosis in human breast carcinoma
MCF-7 cells independent of caspase-9 activation. J Ethnopharmacol., 105(1-2): 263-268.
Patrinia villosa (BAI JIANG CAO) patrinia {R8}
The flavonoid content of Patrinia villosa has received recent attention (1). This species was one of 10
from 472 which were highly effective against herpes simplex virus (2). Some anti-lipid peroxidation
activity has been demonstrated in rats (3).
1.Peng J., Fan G., Chai Y. & Wu Y. (2006) Efficient new method for extraction and isolation of three flavonoids
from Patrinia villosa Juss. by supercritical fluid extraction and high-speed counter-current chromatography. J
Chromatogr A., 1102(1-2): 44-50.
2.Zheng M. (1990) Experimental study of 472 herbs with antiviral action against the herpes simplex virus. Zhong
Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(1): 39-41.
3.Jiang H., Huang X., Yang Y. & Zhang Q. (1997) Studies on the antilipid peroxidation of nine sorts of Chinese
herbal medicines with the function of protecting liver. Zhong Yao Cai., 20(12): 624-626.
Perilla frutescens (ZI SU YE) perilla, beefsteak plant or beefsteak mint
Current commercial crop in Australia. The leaves and seeds have been consumed since 5000 B.C. (1).
Perilla seed oil has a high content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids which are known to have an
inhibitory effect on blood platelet aggregation and anticancer action (1). Perilla oil prevents lipid
peroxidation in vivo and has more potent serum cholesterol-lowering ability than safflower oil (1).
1.Fukuda Y. & Nagashima M. (2005) Antioixidative function of seeds and nuts and their traditional oils in the
orient, pp. 381- 409. In, Shi J., Ho C.T. & Shahidi F. (Eds.), ‘Asian Functional Foods’. Pub.- CRC Press, Taylor
& Francis Group, 647 pp.
Periploca sepium (GANG LIU or XIANG JIA PI) silk vine {R8}
Periploca sepium has traditionally been used in oriental medicine for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
(1). Effects of an aqueous extract on human rheumatoid arthritis-derived fibroblast-like cells have been
investigated (2). Results supported the view that P. sepium extract is a rich source of growth inhibition
and anti-Interleukin-6 production (2). (Interleukin-6 is a proinflammatory cytokine secreted by T cells
and macrophages). In the latest relevant work, the immunosuppressive effects of ‘periplocoside E’ (a
pregnane glycoside) from P. sepium were investigated in vitro and in vivo (mice) (1). Findings
demonstrated that periplocoside E is an immunosuppressive compound which directly inhibits T cell
96
activation in vitro and in vivo. It was concluded that this herb is appropriate for treatment of T cellmediated disorders, such as autoimmune diseases (1). Earlier work on silk vine considered antitumour
constituents (3).
1.Zhu Y.N., Zhao W.M., Yang Y.F., Liu Q.F., Zhou Y., Tian J., Ni J., Fu Y.F., Zhong X.G., Tang W., Zhou R., He
P.L., Li X.Y. & Zuo J.P. (2006) Periplocoside E, an Effective Compound from Periploca sepium Bge, Inhibited T
Cell Activation in vitro and in vivo. J Pharmacol Exp Ther., 316(2): 662-669.
2.Tokiwa T., Harada K., Matsumura T. & Tukiyama T. (2004) Oriental medicinal herb, Periploca sepium, extract
inhibits growth and IL-6 production of human synovial fibroblast-like cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(10): 1691-1693.
3.Itokawa H., Xu J.P. & Takeya K. (1988) Studies on chemical constituents of antitumor fraction from Periploca
sepium. V. Structures of new pregnane glycosides, periplocosides J, K, F and O. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo),
36(11): 4441-4446.
Persicaria orientalis (SHUI HONG HUA) princess feather or polygonum {R4}
A native to New South Wales, the Northern Territory and Queensland and widely cultivated and
naturalised outside of Australasia and Asia (1). This herb is said to possess anticancer activity (2)
although this seems unsupported by accessible scientific literature.
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Persicaria tinctoria (QING DAI) Chinese indigo or polygonum indigo {R15}
Persicaria tinctoria is known to have the ability to suppress inflammation. Excessive nitric oxide
production by activated macrophages has been implicated in several inflammatory diseases. To clarify
the mechanisms of antiinflammatory activities of P. tinctoria, extracts were evaluated in vitro and
found to be potential therapeutic modulators of nitric oxide synthesis in various pathological
conditions (1). Another study attempted to isolate the active compounds from P. tinctoria based on
their inhibitory effects on the production of interferon-gamma, which is a well-known inflammatory
cytokine (2). ‘Indirubin’ exerted its inhibitory effects not only on interferon-gamma production by
human myelomonocytic HBL-38 cells but also on interferon-gamma and interleukin-6 production by
murine splenocytes. When injected intraperitoneally, indirubin significantly inhibited the ear swelling
of TNCB-elicited mice, suggesting antiinflammatory effects (2).
‘Tryptanthrin’, a bioactive ingredient of P. tinctoria showed potent cytocidal effects on various human
leukaemia cells in vitro (3). Another study on rats found that tryptanthrin had cancer chemopreventive
activity (4). Tryptanthrin also potently inhibited induction of hepatocyte growth factor production
which has been shown to be involved in malignant cell transformation, and in growth, invasion and
metastasis in cancer cells (5).
A water-soluble extract of fermented P. tinctoria called ‘Sukumo’, exhibited potent inhibitory activity
against human immunodeficiency virus-1 in vitro (6).
1.Ishihara T., Okura T., Kohno K., Tanimoto T., Ikegami H. & Kurimoto M. (2000) Polygonum tinctorium
extract suppresses nitric oxide production by activated macrophages through inhibiting inducible nitric oxide
synthase expression. J Ethnopharmacol., 72(1-2): 141-150.
2.Kunikata T., Tatefuji T., Aga H., Iwaki K., Ikeda M. & Kurimoto M. (2000) Indirubin inhibits inflammatory
reactions in delayed-type hypersensitivity. Eur J Pharmacol., 410(1): 93-100.
3.Kimoto T., Hino K., Koya-Miyata S., Yamamoto Y., Takeuchi M., Nishizaki Y., Micallef M.J., Ushio S., Iwaki
K., Ikeda M. & Kurimoto M. (2001) Cell differentiation and apoptosis of monocytic and promyelocytic leukemia
cells (U-937 and HL-60) by tryptanthrin, an active ingredient of Polygonum tinctorium Lour. Pathol Int., 51(5):
315-325.
4.Koya Miyata S., Kimoto T., Micallef M.J., Hino K., Taniguchi M., Ushio S., Iwaki K., Ikeda M. & Kurimoto
M. (2001) Prevention of azoxymethane-induced intestinal tumors by a crude ethyl acetate-extract and
tryptanthrin extracted from Polygonum tinctorium Lour. Anticancer Res., 21(5): 3295-3300.
5.Motoki T., Takami Y., Yagi Y., Tai A., Yamamoto I. & Gohda E. (2005) Inhibition of hepatocyte growth
factor induction in human dermal fibroblasts by tryptanthrin. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(2): 260-266.
6.Zhong Y., Yoshinaka Y., Takeda T., Shimizu N., Yoshizaki S., Inagaki Y., Matsuda S., Honda G., Fujii N. &
Yamamoto N. (2005) Highly potent anti-HIV-1 activity isolated from fermented Polygonum tinctorium Aiton.
Antiviral Res., 66(2-3): 119-128.
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Peucedanum praeruptorum (QIAN HU) hogfennel root {R17}
Coumarins from the root have potential roles in improving heart function (1,2), and in combating
cancer (3,4). More human trials required.
1.Ji Y. & Rao M.R. (1996) Effects of Peucedanum praeruptorum extractum on blood pressure, left ventricular
hypertrophy and hemodynamic changes in left ventricular hypertrophied hypertensive rats. Zhongguo Zhong Xi
Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 16(11): 676-678.
2.Chang T.H., Adachi H., Okuyama T. & Zhang K.Y. (1994) Effects of 3'-angeloyloxy-4'-acetoxy-3',4'dihydroseselin on myocardial dysfunction after a brief ischemia in anesthetized dogs. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao.,
15(5): 388-391.
3.Wu J.Y., Fong W.F., Zhang J.X., Leung C.H., Kwong H.L., Yang M.S., Li D. & Cheung H.Y. (2003)
Reversal of multidrug resistance in cancer cells by pyranocoumarins isolated from Radix Peucedani. Eur J
Pharmacol., 473(1): 9-17.
4.Zhang J.X., Fong W.F., Wu J.Y., Yang M. & Cheung H.Y. (2003) Pyranocoumarins isolated from Peucedanum
praeruptorum as differentiation inducers in human leukemic HL-60 cells. Planta Med., 69(3): 223-229.
Phellodendron amurense (HUANG BAI) Amur corktree {R21}
In Chinese medicine, Phellodendron amurense has been used to treat patients suffering from
gastroenteritis and abdominal pain. ‘Berberine’ has been identified as a major component in this plant,
and it has biological actions including bactericidal activity, anticholera toxin effects and
antiinflammatory effects (1). Recent research established that berberine showed antimicrobial activity
against all tested strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (2).
More up-to-date work investigating a dietary supplement containing proprietary extracts of Magnolia
officinalis and P. amurense considered stress-induced weight gain in healthy, premenopausal female
adults (3). This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study found a significant weight
gain for the placebo group but no significant weight gain for the group receiving the herbal extracts.
The results indicate that obese subjects who eat in response to stress may benefit from taking this
dietary supplement. The mechanism of action appeared to be through reduction of cortisol levels and
possibly perceived stress, thereby helping participants maintain body weight (3).
1.Uchiyama T., Kamikawa H. & Ogita Z. (1989) Anti-ulcer effect of extract from phellodendri cortex. Yakugaku
Zasshi., 109(9): 672-676.
2.Yu H.H., Kim K.J., Cha J.D., Kim H.K., Lee Y.E., Choi N.Y. & You Y.O. (2005) Antimicrobial activity of
berberine alone and in combination with ampicillin or oxacillin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus. J Med Food., 8(4): 454-461.
3.Garrison R. & Chambliss W.G. (2006) Effect of a proprietary Magnolia and Phellodendron extract on weight
management: a pilot, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Altern Ther Health Med., 12(1): 50-54.
Phyllanthus emblica (YU GAN ZI) [Myanmar- ZIBYU, India- AMLA] emblic, emblic
myrobalan, embalic, Eastern gooseberry or Indian gooseberry {R9}
Selected medicinal plant extracts were tested for their in vitro antioxidant capacity and
cardioprotective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (1). ‘Doxorubicin’ is an important
and effective anticancer drug widely used for the treatment of various cancer types but its clinical use
is limited by dose-dependent cardiotoxicity possibly brought about by elevated levels of cellular
superoxide anion/oxidative stress. Phyllanthus emblica-ethanol showed the highest cardioprotective
effect, demonstrating potential usefulness for patients who receive doxorubicin (1). Extracts from P.
emblica have inhibited human tumour cell-line proliferation (2,3).
1.Wattanapitayakul S.K., Chularojmontri L., Herunsalee A., Charuchongkolwongse S., Niumsakul S. & Bauer
J.A. (2005) Screening of antioxidants from medicinal plants for cardioprotective effect against doxorubicin
toxicity. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol., 96(1): 80-87.
2.Khan M.T., Lampronti I., Martello D., Bianchi N., Jabbar S., Choudhuri M.S., Datta B.K. & Gambari R.
(2002) Identification of pyrogallol as an antiproliferative compound present in extracts from the medicinal plant
Emblica officinalis: effects on in vitro cell growth of human tumor cell lines. Int J Oncol., 21(1): 187-192.
3.Zhang Y.J., Nagao T., Tanaka T., Yang C.R., Okabe H. & Kouno I. (2004) Antiproliferative activity of the
main constituents from Phyllanthus emblica. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(2): 251-255.
Phytolacca acinosa (SHANG LU) Indian poke or Indian pokeweed {R14}
Phytolacca acinosa polysaccharides significantly augmented the cytotoxicity of murine splenocytes
and interleukin-2 activated splenocytes against P815 tumour cells in vitro (1). In related work, the
effects of P. acinosa polysaccharides on Sarcoma-180 bearing mice were comparatively investigated
and results again confirmed antitumour activity (2).
98
1.Wang H.B., Chen W.Z., Bao E.J., Zheng Q.Y., Song H.L., Fang J., Xu Y.X. & Chen H.S. (1995)
Effects of Phytolacca acinosa polysaccharides I combined with interleukin-2 on the cytotoxicity of murine
splenocytes against tumor cells. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 30(6): 401-407.
2.Wang H.B. & Zheng Q.Y. (1997) Effects of Phytolacca acinosa polysaccharides I with different schedules on
its antitumor efficiency in tumor bearing mice and production of IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, TNF, CSF activity in normal
mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol., 19(2): 197-213.
Pinellia ternata (BAN XIA or BANHA) pinellia {R17}
There is some evidence to support this plant’s use in combating nausea and vomiting (1). However,
claims that it lowers blood cholesterol appear unsubstantiated. Pinellia ternata agglutinin from tubers
is a monocot mannose-binding lectin that has gained considerable interest in recent years owing to its
clinical use as a preparation against cancer (2). The compound 5alpha,8alpha-epidioxyergosta-6,22dien-3-ol may be one of the antitumour constituents (3). An antimicrobial cerebroside, ‘pinelloside’,
isolated from air-dried tubers showed inhibition of growth of Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus,
Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans (4).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Lin J., Yao J., Zhou X., Sun X. & Tang K. (2003) Expression and purification of a novel mannose-binding
lectin from Pinellia ternata. Mol Biotechnol., 25(3): 215-222.
3.He P., Li S., Wang S.J., Yang Y.C. & Shi J.G. (2005) Study on chemical constituents in rhizome of Pinellia
ternata. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(9): 671-674.
4.Chen J.H., Cui G.Y., Liu J.Y. & Tan R.X. (2003) Pinelloside, an antimicrobial cerebroside from Pinellia
ternata. Phytochemistry, 64(4): 903-906.
Piper kadsura (HAI FENG TENG) kadsura pepper or futo-kazura {R10}
Used traditionally for rheumatic or rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosis, muscular contracture and aching
knees (1). In an Australian study examining antiinflammatory activities of ethanol extracts from nine
vine plants used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, extract activity was
evaluated against a panel of key enzymes relating to inflammation (2). Piper kadsura showed
inhibitory activity against at least one of these enzymes. Other work has supported the potential
usefulness of ‘piperlactum S’ (an alkaloid) from this plant as an antiinflammatory agent (3).
Piperlactum S may also help to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, not only by protecting human lowdensity lipoproteins and membrane lipids from oxidative modification but also by reducing free
radical-induced endothelial injury and/or dysfunction (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
3.Chiou W.F., Peng C.H., Chen C.F. & Chou C.J. (2003) Anti-inflammatory properties of piperlactam S:
modulation of complement 5a-induced chemotaxis and inflammatory cytokines production in macrophages.
Planta Med., 69(1): 9-14.
4.Tsai J.Y., Chou C.J., Chen C.F. & Chiou W.F. (2003) Antioxidant activity of piperlactam S: prevention of
copper-induced LDL peroxidation and amelioration of free radical-induced oxidative stress of endothelial cells.
Planta Med., 69(1): 3-8.
Piper longum (BI BO) long pepper {R3}
Alcoholic extract of the fruits of Piper longum and its component piperine have shown effective
immunomodulatory and antitumour activity in cell-line and animal experiments (1,2).
1.Sunila E.S. & Kuttan G. (2004) Immunomodulatory and antitumor activity of Piper longum Linn. and piperine.
J Ethnopharmacol., 90(2-3): 339-346.
2.Pradeep C.R. & Kuttan G. (2002) Effect of piperine on the inhibition of lung metastasis induced B16F-10
melanoma cells in mice. Clin Exp Metastasis., 19(8): 703-708.
Piper sarmentosum (JIA JU) pointed pepper {R6}
Current commercial crop in Australia. The leaves of this plant have shown high antioxidant activity
and are a good source of natural antioxidants (1). Studies have revealed that Piper sarmentosum has
considerable antimalarial effects (2). Another trial demonstrated that the water extract of whole P.
sarmentosum plant had a hypoglycaemic effect in rats (3). The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Najib Nik A., Rahman N., Furuta T., Kojima S., Takane K. & Ali Mohd M. (1999) Antimalarial activity of
extracts of Malaysian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 64(3): 249-254.
3.Peungvicha P., Thirawarapan S.S., Temsiririrkkul R., Watanabe H., Kumar Prasain J. & Kadota S. (1998)
Hypoglycemic effect of the water extract of Piper sarmentosum in rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 60(1): 27-32.
99
Plantago asiatica (CHE QIAN) Asian plantain or Asian psyllium {R11}
Plantago asiatica (commonly used as a folk medicine in Taiwan for treating infectious diseases related
to the respiratory, urinary and digestive tracts) was investigated for antiviral, cytotoxic and
immunomodulatory activities (1). Results showed that the hot water extract possessed significant in
vitro inhibitory activity on the proliferation of lymphoma (U937) and carcinoma (bladder, bone,
cervix, kidney, lung and stomach) cells and on viral infection (HSV-2 and ADV-11). P. asiatica
exhibited dual effects of immunomodulatory activity, enhancing lymphocyte proliferation and
secretion of interferon-gamma at low concentrations (< 50 microg/ml), but inhibiting this effect at high
concentration (> 50 microg/ml) (1). The study concluded that hot water P. asiatica extracts possessed
a broad-spectrum of antileukaemia, anticarcinoma and antiviral activities, as well as activities which
modulate cell-mediated immunity. Further investigations to evaluate their clinical application are
warranted.
In another investigation, 68 water and methanol extracts from 34 Chinese herbal drugs, most of which
are used for inflammatory diseases, were screened for their inhibitory effects on nitric oxide
production in vitro (2). Methanol extracts of four, including P. asiatica, showed significant inhibition.
The induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is widely recognised as an effective cellular strategy to
counteract a variety of stressful events. Curcumin and caffeic acid phenethyl ester, two naturally
occurring phytochemicals that possess antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anticarcinogenic activities,
induce HO-1 in many cell types (3). This suggests that stimulation of HO-1 could partly underlie the
beneficial effects exerted by these plant-derived constituents. In a study which examined the ability of
additional plant constituents to up-regulate heme oxygenase activity and HO-1 in aortic endothelial
cells, ‘rosolic acid’ from the rhizome of P. asiatica dramatically increased HO-1 in a concentration
and time dependent manner (3).
1.Chiang L.C., Chiang W., Chang M.Y. & Lin C.C. (2003) In vitro cytotoxic, antiviral and immunomodulatory
effects of Plantago major and Plantago asiatica. Am J Chin Med., 31(2): 225-234.
2.Tezuka Y., Irikawa S., Kaneko T., Banskota A.H., Nagaoka T., Xiong Q., Hase K. & Kadota S. (2001)
Screening of Chinese herbal drug extracts for inhibitory activity on nitric oxide production and identification of
an active compound of Zanthoxylum bungeanum. J Ethnopharmacol., 77(2-3): 209-217.
3.Foresti R., Hoque M., Monti D., Green C.J. & Motterlini R. (2005) Differential activation of heme oxygenase-1
by chalcones and rosolic acid in endothelial cells. J Pharmacol Exp Ther., 312(2): 686-693.
Plantago depressa (CHE QIAN) depressed plantain {R3}
Investigation of the effects of Plantago depressa extract on the metabolism of glucose and lipids found
that it significantly attenuated hyperlipidaemia and hyperglycaemia in diabetic mice, probably due to
its effects of antioxidation and amelioration of damaged pancreatic islet (1).
1.Wu F.H., Liang J.Y., Yu P. & Cai S.F. (2005) Studies on the hypoglycemia and lipids regulating effects of
Plantago depressa var. montata. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(15): 1179-1183.
Platycodon grandiflorus (JIE GENG) balloon-flower or Chinese bell-flower {R22}
This species is grown as a garden ornament in the West, is widely naturalised and used in traditional
Chinese medicine for a range of health issues. However, research has only begun to reveal some of
this plant’s more important potential in the last few years. Saponins isolated from the roots can inhibit
adhesion in early atherogenesis (1), and have shown antiinflammatory (2) and antinociceptive (3)
effects in rats. Root saponins may also inhibit intestinal absorption of fat (4). In vitro studies of human
cancer cells have also shown that Platycodon grandiflorus saponins can inhibit proliferation and
induce apoptosis (5,6,7). More results from human trials would help put the value of this herb into
perspective.
1.Kim J.Y., Kim D.H., Kim H.G., Song G.Y., Chung Y.C., Roh S.H. & Jeong H.G. (2006) Inhibition of tumor
necrosis factor-alpha-induced expression of adhesion molecules in human endothelial cells by the saponins
derived from roots of Platycodon grandiflorum. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol., 210(1-2): 150-156.
2.Kim J.Y., Hwang Y.P., Kim D.H., Han E.H., Chung Y.C., Roh S.H. & Jeong H.G. (2006) Inhibitory effect of
the saponins derived from roots of Platycodon grandiflorum on carrageenan-induced inflammation. Biosci
Biotechnol Biochem., 70(4): 858-864.
3.Lacaille-Dubois M. (2005) Bioactive saponins from plants: recent developments, pp. 399-428. In Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
4.Xu B.J., Han L.K., Zheng Y.N., Lee J.H. & Sung C.K. (2005) In vitro inhibitory effect of triterpenoidal
saponins from Platycodi Radix on pancreatic lipase. Arch Pharm Res., 28(2): 180-185.
100
5.Kim Y.S., Kim J.S., Choi S.U., Kim J.S., Lee H.S., Roh S.H., Jeong Y.C., Kim Y.K. & Ryu S.Y. (2005)
Isolation of a new saponin and cytotoxic effect of saponins from the root of Platycodon grandiflorum on human
tumor cell lines. Planta Med., 71(6): 566-568.
6.Park D.I., Lee J.H., Moon S.K., Kim C.H., Lee Y.T., Cheong J., Choi B.T. & Choi Y.H. (2005) Induction of
apoptosis and inhibition of telomerase activity by aqueous extract from Platycodon grandiflorum in human lung
carcinoma cells. Pharmacol Res., 51(5): 437-443.
7.Kim Y.S., Kim J.S., Choi S.U., Kim J.S., Lee H.S., Roh S.H., Jeong Y.C., Kim Y.K. & Ryu S.Y. (2005)
Isolation of a new saponin and cytotoxic effect of saponins from the root of Platycodon grandiflorum on human
tumor cell lines. Planta Med., 71(6): 566-568.
Plectranthus barbatus [India- MAKANDI] coleus or forskohlii {R22}
This small member of the Lamiaceae (Labiatae) used in Ayurvedic medicine grows as a perennial on
the Indian plains and lower Himalayas (1). The labdane diterpenoid, ‘forskolin’, occurs in the root of
Plectranthus barbatus and could explain some of the traditional uses of this species (2). Forskolin is a
powerful activator of adenylate cyclase in various tissue leading to elevations in cAMP and in the
artery this causes relaxation and a resulting lowering of blood pressure (3). In congestive heart failure
the possible benefit of forskolin treatment is an indirect increase in force of contraction, and human
experimental and human ex vivo studies suggest that administration may be beneficial (1). Forskolin is
also a potent platelet aggregation inhibitor, and can assist in bronchodilation and treatment of asthma
(3). Animal and human trials have suggested that forskolin may lower intraocular pressure and thus
have benefits in preventing onset of glaucoma (3,4). However, the forskolin content in coleus root is
typically 0.2 to 0.3%, an amount that may not be sufficient to produce a pharmacological effect; it is
therefore recommended to use standardised extracts (3). Previously identified as a potential new crop
for Australia (5).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Lukhoba C.W., Simmonds M.S. & Paton A.J. (2006) Plectranthus: A review of ethnobotanical uses. J
Ethnopharmacol., 103(1): 1-24.
3.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
4.Caprioli J., Sears M., Bausher L., Gregory D. & Mead A. (1984) Forskolin lowers intraocular pressure by
reducing aqueous inflow. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci., 25(3): 268-277.
5.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Podophyllum pleianthum (PA JIAO LIAN) bajiaolian {R5}
For thousands of years in China this plant has been widely used as a general remedy and for the
treatment of snake bite, weakness, condyloma accuminata and lymphadenopathy (1). It possesses some
anticancer activity (1,2). However, one of the main ingredients (podophyllotoxin) has been linked to
poisonings (2,3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Kao W.F., Hung D.Z., Tsai W.J., Lin K.P. & Deng J.F. (1992) Podophyllotoxin intoxication: toxic effect of
Bajiaolian in herbal therapeutics. Hum Exp Toxicol., 11(6): 480-487.
3.Carles M., Cheung M.K., Moganti S., Dong T.T., Tsim K.W., Ip N.Y. & Sucher N.J. (2005) A DNA
microarray for the authentication of toxic traditional Chinese medicinal plants. Planta Med., 71(6): 580-584.
Pogostemon cablin (HUO XIANG) patchouli {R14}
The mosquito repellent activity of the essential oil from this plant was one of four from 38 tested that
was most effective (1). Some evidence of antimutagenic activity (2). Has also been used as part of a
herbal decoction that might reduce airway obstruction in asthmatics (3).
1.Trongtokit Y., Rongsriyam Y., Komalamisra N. & Apiwathnasorn C. (2005) Comparative repellency of 38
essential oils against mosquito bites. Phytother Res., 19(4): 303-309.
2.Miyazawa M., Okuno Y., Nakamura S. & Kosaka H. (2000) Antimutagenic activity of flavonoids from
Pogostemon cablin. J Agric Food Chem., 48(3): 642-647.
3.Fu J.X. (1989) Measurement of MEFV in 66 cases of asthma in the convalescent stage and after treatment with
Chinese herbs. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 9(11): 644, 658-659.
101
Polygala tenuifolia (YUAN ZHI) Chinese senega {R23}
Expectorant effects have been demonstrated in clinical studies (1). ‘Onjisaponins’ extracted from the
roots of Polygala tenuifolia were found to contain potent mucosal adjuvant activity (2). The results of
this study suggested that onjisaponins may provide safe and potent adjuvants for intranasal inoculation
of influenza vaccines.
This plant is also traditionally used with other herbs for mental confusion and poor memory (3). Dried
root extract of P. tenuifolia significantly reversed scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in rats,
suggesting possible protective effects against neuronal death and cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's
disease and other neurodegenerative conditions (4). In related work, ‘tenuifoliside B’ which is one of
the acylated oligosaccharides in the roots, showed cerebral protective effects on potassium cyanideinduced anoxia in mice (widely used as an animal model for cerebrovascular disease), and also had an
ameliorative effect on the scopolamine-induced impairment of performance in passive avoidance task
in rats (5). Another study on rats investigated whether an aqueous extract could improve rat memory
and behavioural disorders produced by lesioning nucleus basalis magnocellularis (6). Results
suggested that P. tenuifolia extract has some repairing effects on memory.
Amyloid beta-protein is a pivotal pathological factor in Alzheimer's disease. ‘Tenuigenin’, extracted
from P. tenuifolia, has been shown to inhibit the secretion of amyloid beta-protein A beta in
neuroblastoma cells in vitro (7). This suggests that tenuigenin is worthy of future study as an antiAlzheimer's drug. Proposed as a crop for Australia (8).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Nagai T., Suzuki Y., Kiyohara H., Susa E., Kato T., Nagamine T., Hagiwara Y., Tamura S., Yabe T., Aizawa
C. & Yamada H. (2001) Onjisaponins, from the root of Polygala tenuifolia Willdenow, as effective adjuvants for
nasal influenza and diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccines. Vaccine, 19(32): 4824-4834.
3.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
4.Park C.H., Choi S.H., Koo J.W., Seo J.H., Kim H.S., Jeong S.J. & Suh Y.H. (2002) Novel cognitive improving
and neuroprotective activities of Polygala tenuifolia Willdenow extract, BT-11. J Neurosci Res., 70(3): 484-492.
5.Ikeya Y., Takeda S., Tunakawa M., Karakida H., Toda K., Yamaguchi T. & Aburada M. (2004) Cognitive
improving and cerebral protective effects of acylated oligosaccharides in Polygala tenuifolia. Biol Pharm Bull.,
27(7): 1081-1085.
6.Chen Y.L., Hsieh C.L., Wu P.H. & Lin J.G. (2004) Effect of Polygala tenuifolia root on behavioral disorders
by lesioning nucleus basalis magnocellularis in rat. J Ethnopharmacol., 95(1): 47-55.
7.Jia H., Jiang Y., Ruan Y., Zhang Y., Ma X., Zhang J., Beyreuther K., Tu P. & Zhang D. (2004)
Tenuigenin treatment decreases secretion of the Alzheimer's disease amyloid beta-protein in cultured cells.
Neurosci Lett., 367(1): 123-128.
8.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Polygonatum cyrtonema (HUANG JING) {R3}
Traditionally used with other herbs for treatment of diabetes (1), however, no relevant material could
be retrieved from the scientific literature. In very recent work, the anti-human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) I/II activity of a mannose and sialic acid binding lectin isolated from rhizomes of Polygonatum
cyrtonema was elucidated by comparing its HIV infection inhibitory activity in MT-4 and CEM cells
with that of other mannose-binding lectins (2). The anti-HIV activity of P. cyrtonema lectin was 10 to
100 fold more potent than other tested mannose-binding lectins, but without significant cytotoxicity
towards MT-4 or CEM cells (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.An J., Liu J.Z., Wu C.F., Li J., Dai L., Van Damme E., Balzarini J., De Clercq E., Chen F. & Bao J.K. (2006)
Anti-HIV I/II activity and molecular cloning of a novel mannose/sialic acid-binding lectin from rhizome of
Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin. (Shanghai), 38(2): 70-78.
Polygonatum kingianum (HUANG JING) {R4}
Traditionally taken with other herbs for treatment of diabetes (1) but literature could not be retrieved.
This species has been screened recently for anti-human immunodeficiency virus constituents (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Wang Y.F., Mu T.H., Chen J.J. & Luo S.D. (2003) Studies on chemical constituents from the root of
Polygonatum kingianum. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(6): 524-527.
102
Polygonatum odoratum (YU ZHU) fragrant Soloman’s seal or angular Solomon's seal {R11}
Traditionally used to lower blood pressure and reduce blood sugar. SG-100, a steroidal glycoside
obtained from Polygonatum odoratum has been shown to have an antihyperglycaemic effect in rats by
promoting peripheral insulin sensitivity without changing insulin secretion (1).
1.Choi S.B. & Park S. (2002) A steroidal glycoside from Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce. improves insulin
resistance but does not alter insulin secretion in 90% pancreatectomized rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem., 66(10):
2036-2043.
Polygonatum sibiricum (HUANG JING) Siberian Soloman’s seal {R8}
Traditionally used with other herbs for treatment of diabetes (1). The methanol extract of the rhizomes
reduced blood glucose levels in mice four hours after intraperitoneal administration (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Miura T. & Kato A. (1995) The difference in hypoglycemic action between polygonati rhizoma and polygonati
officinalis rhizoma. Biol Pharm Bull., 18(11): 1605-1606.
Polygonum hypoleucum {R5}
Polygonum hypoleucum is a Chinese medicinal plant used to treat arthritis, coughs, influenza and
insomnia (1); however, no relevant material could be retrieved from the scientific literature.
‘Anthraquinones’ from the stems showed activity against tumour cell proliferation in six cell-lines (1).
Note: the scientific name for this plant is under review.
1.Kuo Y.C., Sun C.M., Ou J.C. & Tsai W.J. (1997) A tumor cell growth inhibitor from Polygonum hypoleucum
Ohwi. Life Sci., 61(23): 2335-2344.
Poria cocos (FU LING) wolfiporia, tuckahoe, North American Indian bread or China root
The sclerotium of this medicinal fungus is usually found on pine tree roots in China and North
America. It is used in vast quantities in China but is collected from the wild rather than being
cultivated (1). Good evidence to suggest anticancer properties through antiangiogenic activity (2).
However, potentially specialised agronomic requirements and a wide natural distribution through two
of the world’s leading economies probably prohibit competitive Australian commercial production.
1.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
2.Yance D.R. Jr & Sagar S.M. (2006) Targeting angiogenesis with integrative cancer therapies. Integr Cancer
Ther., 5(1): 9-29.
Prunus armeniaca (XING REN) apricot
Used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiasthmatic, antibacterial, antiparasitic and analgesic.
Modern research lends some support to use of Xing Ren as an antitussive and antiasthmatic (1).
An existing, important commercial crop in Australia.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
103
Prunus davidiana (TAO REN) Chinese peach or David’s peach {R9}
In traditional Chinese medicine used for invigorating blood circulation, removing blood stasis, for
cough and asthma (1). Recent research (2,3) has focussed on antioxidant properties and although it
showed some promise, the work was limited in its scope.
Rats with hyperlipidaemia resulting from high-fat feeding were administered with a methanol extract
of Prunus davidiana stems and its flavonoid components, including (+)-catechin (4). Administration
for three days produced a significant decrease of blood triglyceride and total cholesterol, and the
atherogenic index was also improved (4). Other studies on rats report decreases in blood triglyceride
and total cholesterol (5,6). In addition to hypolipidaemic effects, the methanolic stem extract was also
effective in reducing elevated glucose levels in rats with hyperlipidaemia resulting from high-fat
feeding (5). A methanolic extract of P. davidiana stems and its main flavanone glycoside component,
‘prunin’ produced a significant hypoglycaemic effect in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes (6).
It was concluded that the methanolic extract contained one or more hypoglycaemic principles
including prunin, that could significantly reduce the levels of blood glucose and total lipids in
streptozotocin-diabetic rats (6).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Jung H.A., Jung M.J., Kim J.Y., Chung H.Y. & Choi J.S. (2003) Inhibitory activity of flavonoids from Prunus
davidiana and other flavonoids on total ROS and hydroxyl radical generation. Arch Pharm Res., 26(10): 809815.
3.Jung H.A., Kim A.R., Chung H.Y. & Choi J.S. (2002) In vitro antioxidant activity of some selected Prunus
species in Korea. Arch Pharm Res., 25(6): 865-872.
4.Choi J.S., Yokozawa T. & Oura H. (1991) Antihyperlipidemic effect of flavonoids from Prunus davidiana.
J Nat Prod., 54(1): 218-224.
5.Choi J.S., Suh S.S., Young H.S. & Park H.J. (1991) Hypolipemic and hypoglycemic activities of Prunus
davidiana in high fat-fed rats. Arch Pharm Res., 14(1): 44-47.
6.Choi J.S., Yokozawa T. & Oura H. (1991) Improvement of hyperglycemia and hyperlipemia in streptozotocindiabetic rats by a methanolic extract of Prunus davidiana stems and its main component, prunin. Planta Med.,
57(3): 208-211.
Prunus mume (WU MEI) mume or Japanese apricot {R18}
Used in traditional Chinese medicine with other herbs for treatment of diabetes (1). In vitro testing has
revealed some anticancer activity (2,3). Cardiovascular protective effects have been suggested through
improved blood fluidity (4). Prunus mume is currently being evaluated in Queensland as a potential
new crop (5).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Jeong J.T., Moon J.H., Park K.H. & Shin C.S. (2006) Isolation and characterization of a new compound from
Prunus mume fruit that inhibits cancer cells. J Agric Food Chem., 54(6): 2123-2128.
3.Dogasaki C., Murakami H., Nishijima M., Yamamoto K. & Miyazaki T. (1992) Antimutagenic activities of
hexane extracts of the fruit extract and the kernels of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc. Yakugaku Zasshi., 112(8): 577584.
4.Utsunomiya H., Takekoshi S., Gato N., Utatsu H., Motley E.D., Eguchi K., Fitzgerald T.G., Mifune M., Frank
G.D. & Eguchi S. (2002) Fruit-juice concentrate of Asian plum inhibits growth signals of vascular smooth
muscle cells induced by angiotensin II. Life Sci., 72(6): 659-667.
5.Topp B., Russell D. & Noller J (2004) Development of Prunus mume, a new tree crop for Australia. Assess to
Asian Foods Newsletter, Issue 70, May.
Prunus persica (TAO REN) peach
In traditional Chinese medicine, this species is used to invigorate blood circulation, and treat cough
and asthma (1). An existing and important commercial crop in Australia.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Pseudostellaria heterophylla (TAI ZI SHEN) false starwort {R14}
Animal experiments have demonstrated antitumour activity (1,2). A cheaper substitute for Panax
quinquefolius with regard to antioxidant activity (3).
1.Wong C.K., Leung K.N., Fung K.P., Pang P.K. & Choy Y.M. (1992) Mitogenic and tumor necrosis factor
producing activities of Pseudostellaria heterophylla. Int J Immunopharmacol., 14(8): 1315-1320.
2.Wong C.K., Leung K.N., Fung K.P., Pang P.K. & Choy Y.M. (1994) Tumor necrosis factor eliciting fractions
separated from Pseudostellaria heterophylla. Int J Immunopharmacol., 16(4): 271-277.
3.Ng T.B., Liu F. & Wang H.X. (2004) The antioxidant effects of aqueous and organic extracts of Panax
quinquefolium, Panax notoginseng, Codonopsis pilosula, Pseudostellaria heterophylla and Glehnia littoralis. J
Ethnopharmacol., 93(2-3): 285-288.
104
Pueraria montana (GE GEN) kudzu {R4}
Used in the treatment of angina pectoris and hypertension (1). Four glycosides have been isolated as
the active principles of this herb, and one of them (‘daidzin’) has been marketed in a synthetic form
(1). In a double-blind study of patients with angina pectoris, a drip of Pueraria montana extract
proved to be an effective treatment (2). Identified as a potentially useful medicinal plant for Australia
(3) but also a potential noxious weed (4).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp
2.Xu J., Zhengh H., Huang Z., Wu. S. & Zhou L. (1996) Intravenous infusions of puerarin treating coronary
diseases. Chinese J New Drugs & Clinical Remedies, 4: 23-25.
3.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
4.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Pyrola rotundifolia (LU XIAN CAO) pyrola herb {R6}
The relevant traditional use is for arthralgia and arthritic diseases (1,2). Also investigated for
antihypertensive effects (3) and antimicrobial activity (4). Although some results were positive, the
limited number of studies preclude strong recommendation.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Kosuge T., Yokota M., Sugiyama K., Mure T., Yamazawa H. & Yamamoto T. (1985) Studies on bioactive
substances in crude drugs used for arthritic diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. III. Isolation and
identification of anti-inflammatory and analgesic principles from the whole herb of Pyrola rotundifolia L. Chem
Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 33(12): 5355-5357.
3.Wang C.H. & Wu C.G. (1986) Clinical observation on the treatment of 101 hypertension patients with Pyrola
rotundifolia preparation. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 6(10): 581, 604-605.
4.Chang J. & Inui T. (2005) Novel phenolic glycoside dimer and trimer from the whole herb of Pyrola
rotundifolia. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 53(8): 1051-1053.
Pyrrosia lingua (SHI WEI) pyrrosia {R2}
Traditionally for asthma due to excess lung heat (1) but efficacy literature is limited. Using tissue
culture methods, the antiviral effect of 472 traditional medicinal herbs on type-1 herpes simplex virus
was investigated and Pyrrosia lingua was one of 10 that were highly effective (2). In a clinical trial,
among 78 cases of herpetic keratitis due to herpes simplex virus-1, treatment with P. lingua and
Prunella vulgaris eye drops effected a cure in 38 patients and improvement in 37 (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zheng M. (1990) Experimental study of 472 herbs with antiviral action against the herpes simplex virus. Zhong
Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(1): 6, 39-41.
Pyrrosia petiolosa (SHI WEI) pyrrosia {R2}
Traditionally for asthma due to excess lung heat (1). The chemical constituents have been recently
investigated (2) but evidence for medical efficacy is scant.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Yang C., Shi J.G., Mo S.Y. & Yang Y.C. (2003) Chemical constituents of Pyrrosia petiolosa. J Asian Nat Prod
Res., 5(2): 143-150.
Pyrrosia sheareri (SHI WEI) pyrrosia {R2}
Traditionally for asthma due to excess lung heat (1). Effects on bacillary dysentery have been
investigated (2) but no scientific reports on asthma treatment were located.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zhao Y.H. (1985) Analysis of the therapeutic effect of 1,148 cases of bacillary dysentery treated with Pyrrosia
sheareri. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 5(9): 514, 530-533.
Rabdosia rubescens (DONG LING CAO) rabdosia {R24}
This herb is typically used by traditional practitioners to treat breast and oesophageal cancer (1). In a
trial of patients with inoperable oesophageal carcinoma, the addition of Rabdosia rubescens extract to
chemotherapy treatment was beneficial (2). R. rubescens is one component of PC-SPES, a herbal
mixture used with some success by prostate cancer patients (3). Recent research from a number of
sources has confirmed the antiproliferation effects of extracts from R. rubescens in human cancer celllines (4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12). The drug ‘rubescensin’ is the best known anticancer compound derived
from this plant (13). Note: this scientific name is undergoing review.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
105
2.Wang R.L., Gao B.L., Xiong M.L., Mei Q.D., Fan K.S., Zuo Z.K., Lang T.L., Gao G.Q., Ji Z.C., Wei D.C., et
al. (1986) Potentiation by Rabdosia rubescens on chemotherapy of advanced esophageal carcinoma. Zhonghua
Zhong Liu Za Zhi., 8(4): 297-299.
3.de la Taille A., Hayek O.R., Burchardt M., Burchardt T. & Katz A.E. (2000) Role of herbal compounds (PCSPES) in hormone-refractory prostate cancer: two case reports. J Altern Complement Med., 6(5): 449-451.
4.Ikezoe T., Chen S.S., Tong X.J., Heber D., Taguchi H. & Koeffler H.P. (2003) Oridonin induces growth
inhibition and apoptosis of a variety of human cancer cells. Int J Oncol., 23(4): 1187-1193.
5.Sartippour M.R., Seeram N.P., Heber D., Hardy M., Norris A., Lu Q., Zhang L., Lu M., Rao J.Y. & Brooks
M.N. (2005) Rabdosia rubescens inhibits breast cancer growth and angiogenesis. Int J Oncol., 26(1): 121-127.
6.Liu J.J., Huang R.W., Lin D.J., Peng J., Wu X.Y., Pan X.L., Li M.Q. & Lin Q. (2004) Anti-proliferative effects
of oridonin on SPC-A-1 cells and its mechanism of action. J Int Med Res., 32(6): 617-625.
7.Liu Y.Q., You S., Zhang C.L., Tashiro S., Onodera S. & Ikejima T. (2005) Oridonin enhances phagocytosis of
UV-irradiated apoptotic U937 cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(3): 461-467.
8.Liu J.J., Huang R.W., Lin D.J., Wu X.Y., Lin Q., Peng J., Pan X., Song Y.Q., Zhang M.H., Hou M. & Chen F.
(2005) Antiproliferation effects of ponicidin on human myeloid leukemia cells in vitro. Oncol Rep., 13(4): 653657.
9.Ikezoe T., Yang Y., Bandobashi K., Saito T., Takemoto S., Machida H., Togitani K., Koeffler H.P. & Taguchi
H. (2005) Oridonin, a diterpenoid purified from Rabdosia rubescens, inhibits the proliferation of cells from
lymphoid malignancies in association with blockade of the NF-kappa B signal pathways. Mol Cancer Ther., 4(4):
578-586.
10.Ren K.K., Wang H.Z., Xie L.P., Chen D.W., Liu X., Sun J., Nie Y.C. & Zhang RQ. (2006) The effects of
oridonin on cell growth, cell cycle, cell migration and differentiation in melanoma cells. J Ethnopharmacol.,
103(2): 176-180.
11.Hsieh T.C., Wijeratne E.K., Liang J.Y., Gunatilaka A.L. & Wu J.M. (2005) Differential control of growth,
cell cycle progression, and expression of NF-kappaB in human breast cancer cells MCF-7, MCF-10A, and MDAMB-231 by ponicidin and oridonin, diterpenoids from the chinese herb Rabdosia rubescens. Biochem Biophys
Res Commun., 337(1): 224-231.
12.Liu J.J., Huang R.W., Lin D.J., Peng J., Zhang M., Pan X., Hou M., Wu X.Y., Lin Q. & Chen F. (2006)
Ponicidin, an ent-kaurane diterpenoid derived from a constituent of the herbal supplement PC-SPES, Rabdosia
rubescens, induces apoptosis by activation of caspase-3 and mitochondrial events in lung cancer cells in vitro.
Cancer Invest., 24(2): 136-148.
13.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
Rauvolfia serpentina (SHE GEN MU) [Myanmar- BONMA-YAZA] serpent wood, snakewood or
serpentine {R27}
During the 1950s and 1960s this species underwent extensive clinical testing of its antihypertensive
properties. ‘Reserpine’, an alkaloid drug isolated from Rauvolfia serpentina has been shown to be an
effective antihypertensive at dosages of 0.1 to 0.3 mg daily (2,3). Several large trials have shown that
either alone or in combination with ‘thiazide’, reserpine is effective in lowering blood pressure (3).
Medically important R. serpentina alkaloids are now generally biosynthesised (4,5). This species is
rare or endangered (6). Potential for Australian production has been recognised (7,8).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
3.Fraser H.S. (1996) Reserpine: a tragic victim of myths, marketing, and fashionable prescribing. Clin Pharmacol
Ther., 60(4): 368-373.
4.Ruppert M., Panjikar S., Barleben L. & Stockigt J. (2006) Heterologous expression, purification, crystallization
and preliminary X-ray analysis of raucaffricine glucosidase, a plant enzyme specifically involved in Rauvolfia
alkaloid biosynthesis. Acta Crystallograph Sect F Struct Biol Cryst Commun., 62(Pt 3): 257-260.
5.Pasquali G., Porto D.D. & Fett-Neto A.G. (2006) Metabolic engineering of cell cultures versus whole plant
complexity in production of bioactive monoterpene indole alkaloids: recent progress related to old dilemma. J
Biosci Bioeng., 101(4): 287-296.
6.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
7.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
8.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
106
Rauvolfia verticillata (LUO FU MU) {R6}
An antihypertensive herb. Approximately 1 to 2 % of the root is made up of alkaloids and the major
active principle is ‘reserpine’ (1,2). In one study of 200 patients with moderate hypertension, doses of
6 to 15 mg daily for three weeks to two months, lowered blood pressure by 30 to 40% (1).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
Rehmannia glutinosa (DI HUANG) Chinese foxglove or rehmannia {R25}
One of the 11 most important cultivated medicinal plants in China (1) and produced as an ornamental
specimen in Australia. A herb with a height of 10 to 40 cm. The root of Rehmannia glutinosa is used
to lower blood sugar (2,3,4). This hypoglycaemic effect has been demonstrated using rodents (5,6,7).
This herb is also a traditional Chinese medicine used in therapy of dementia. Recent work has shown
that R. glutinosa can improve learning and memory in dementia models using mice and rats (8,9).
‘Catalpol’, an iridoid glycoside, from the root was also found to have a neuroprotective action in
gerbils subjected to transient global cerebral ischaemia (10). R. glutinosa is one component of a herbal
tonic called ‘Yukmijihwang-tang’ which has recently been shown in human trials to accelerate speed
of information processing and enhance cognitive ability (11). Yukmijihwang-tang treatment may help
dementia patients or the elderly recover from cognition deficiencies. Traditional dosages are 2 to 6
g/day of the dried (uncured) root or 4 to 12 ml/day of the 1:2 fluid extract (12).
1.Chang-Xiao Liu (2005) History of application of medicinal plants in China, pp. 31-48. In, Yaniv Z. &
Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
2.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
5.Miura T., Kako M., Ishihara E., Usami M., Yano H., Tanigawa K., Sudo K. & Seino Y. (1997)
Antidiabetic effect of seishin-kanro-to in KK-Ay mice. Planta Med., 63(4): 320-322.
6.Zhang R., Zhou J., Jia Z., Zhang Y. & Gu G. (2004) Hypoglycemic effect of Rehmannia glutinosa
oligosaccharide in hyperglycemic and alloxan-induced diabetic rats and its mechanism. J Ethnopharmacol.,
90(1): 39-43.
7.Zhang R.X., Jia Z.P., Kong L.Y., Ma H.P., Ren J., Li M.X. & Ge X. (2004) Stachyose extract from Rehmannia
glutinosa Libosch. to lower plasma glucose in normal and diabetic rats by oral administration. Pharmazie., 59(7):
552-556.
8.Cui Y., Yan Z.H., Hou S.L. & Chang Z.F. (2003) Effect of shu di-huang on the transmitter and receptor of
amino acid in brain and learning and memory of dementia model. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(9): 862-866.
9.Cui Y., Yan Z., Hou S. & Chang Z. (2004) Effect of radix Rehmanniae preparata on the expression of c-fos and
NGF in hippocampi and learning and memory in rats with damaged thalamic arcuate nucleus. Zhong Yao Cai.,
27(8): 589-592.
10.Li D.Q., Li Y., Liu Y., Bao Y.M., Hu B. & An L.J. (2005) Catalpol prevents the loss of CA1 hippocampal
neurons and reduces working errors in gerbils after ischemia-reperfusion injury. Toxicon., 46(8): 845-851.
11.Park E., Kang M., Oh J.W., Jung M., Park C., Cho C., Kim C., Ji S., Lee Y., Choi H., Kim H., Ko S., Shin M.,
Park S., Kim H.T., Hong M. & Bae H. (2005) Yukmijihwang-tang derivatives enhance cognitive processing in
normal young adults: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Chin Med., 33(1): 107-115.
12.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
Rheum tanguticum (DA HUANG) Chinese rhubarb {R13}
Extracts of this plant had neuroprotective effects in rats (1,2). Rheum tanguticum polysaccharide also
protected hydrogen peroxide-induced injury to human intestinal epithelial cells in vitro (3). It was
concluded that the cytoprotective and antioxidant effects may act through inhibition of cell apoptosis
and necrosis. This might be one mechanism for R. tanguticum action in treatment of ulcerative colitis
in rats (3). Protection against colitis in rats was additionally observed in two earlier studies (4,5).
1.Gu J.W., Hasuo H., Takeya M. & Akasu T. (2005) Effects of emodin on synaptic transmission in rat
hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons in vitro. Neuropharmacology., 49(1): 103-111.
2.Wang Z.P., Liu L., Mei Q.B., Zhang R., Gu J.W., Zhang X. & Gao D.K. (2003) Protective effect of Rheum
tanguticum polysaccharides (RTP) on traumatic brain injury in rats. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 28(10): 974976.
3.Liu L.N., Mei Q.B., Liu L., Zhang F., Liu Z.G., Wang Z.P. & Wang R.T. (2005) Protective effects of Rheum
tanguticum polysaccharide against hydrogen peroxide-induced intestinal epithelial cell injury. World J
Gastroenterol., 11(10): 1503-1507.
107
4.Liu L., Mei Q.B., Zhou S.Y., Han F.H., Long Y., Liu J.Y., Li C., Meng J.R. & Wang Z.P. (2003)
Effects of Tanguticum maxim polysaccharide on ulcerative colitis induced by TNBS in rats. Zhongguo Zhong
Yao Za Zhi., 28(3): 246-249.
5.Liu L., Wang Z.P., Xu C.T., Pan B.R., Mei Q.B., Long Y., Liu J.Y. & Zhou S.Y. (2003) Effects of Rheum
tanguticum polysaccharide on TNBS-induced colitis and CD4+T cells in rats. World J Gastroenterol., 9(10):
2284-2288.
Rhodea japonica (WON NIAN QING) nippon lily {R4}
The cardiac glycosides in this plant have a digitalis-like effect on the heart muscle and are used in
treatment of cardiac arrhythmia (1). An isolate called ‘rhodexin A’ exerted potent inhibitory action on
in vitro growth of human leukaemia K562 cells (2). There have been clinical reports of tumour
regression in patients taking cardiac glycosides. Note: this scientific name is undergoing review.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Umebayashi C., Yamamoto N., Nakao H., Toi Y., Chikahisa-Muramatsu L., Kanemaru K., Masuda T. &
Oyama Y. (2003) Flow cytometric estimation of cytotoxic activity of rhodexin A isolated from Rhodea japonica
in human leukemia K562 cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 26(5): 627-630.
Rosa laevigata (JIN YING ZI) Cherokee rose {R4}
Actions are broadly claimed to be astringent, antibacterial, antiviral and cholesterol reducing (1).
Chemical components have been investigated (2,3) but scientific reporting of medical efficacy is scant.
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Gao Y., Cheng W.M. & Li G.Y. (1993) Chemical constituents of Rosa laevigata Michx. Zhongguo Zhong Yao
Za Zhi., 18(7): 426-8, 447.
3.Li X. & Wei L. (1997) Chemical components from Rosa laevigata Michx. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 22(5):
298-9, 320.
Rubus chingii (FU PEN ZI) Chinese raspberry or palmleaf raspberry {R6}
Different in vitro free radical generating systems were used to assess the antioxidative activity of
aqueous extracts of the five herbal components of ‘Wu-zi-yan-zong-wan’, a traditional Chinese
medicinal formula. Rubus chingii fruits were found to be the most potent and may have general value
in attenuating cytotoxicity of oxidants (1).
Further trials considered ‘Equiguard’, a dietary supplement comprised of standardised extracts from
nine herbs, including R. chingii fruit (2). Results showed that Equiguard- significantly reduced cancer
cell growth; induced apoptosis; suppressed expression of the androgen receptor and lowered
intracellular and secreted prostate specific antigen; and, almost completely abolished colony forming
abilities of prostate cancer cells. These data supported the interpretation that this herbal formulation
contains ingredients that collectively may be efficacious in preventing or treating androgen-dependent
and androgen-independent prostate carcinoma (2).
1.Yau M.H., Che C.T., Liang S.M., Kong Y.C. & Fong W.P. (2002) An aqueous extract of Rubus chingii fruits
protects primary rat hepatocytes against tert-butyl hydroperoxide induced oxidative stress. Life Sci., 72(3): 329338.
2.Hsieh T.C., Lu X., Guo J., Xiong W., Kunicki J., Darzynkiewicz Z. & Wu J.M. (2002) Effects of herbal
preparation Equiguard on hormone-responsive and hormone-refractory prostate carcinoma cells: mechanistic
studies. Int J Oncol., 20(4): 681-689.
Salsola collina (CHU MAO CAI or ZHU MAO CAI) tumbleweed or saltwort {R4}
An antihypertensive herb, commonly used in the treatment of early hypertension (1). Has direct
vasodilatory effects (1). Potential aquatic or terrestrial noxious weed and/or noxious weed seed (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Salvia miltiorrhiza (DAN SHEN or TAN SENG) Chinese salvia or red root sage {R35}
The medicinal properties of this plant have been very extensively studied and reported in the literature.
Textbook reviews suggest the following applications- antibacterial, immunostimulant, circulatory
stimulant, blood vessel relaxant, anticoagulant, tissue repair promotor (1,2,3,4). Modern uses of this
herb include the treatment of angina pectoris and human clinical trials have shown an effectiveness of
81% (4). In an open study, more than 300 heart patients were treated with oral doses of Chinese salvia
and angina was said to improve in 81%, and abnormal ECG in 57%, of cases (1). Injection of salvia
used to treat heart attacks in Chinese hospitals reduced mortality rate from 39% to 13% (1). In other
108
clinical trials, salvia was markedly superior to nitroglycerin for ischaemic heart disease (1). The
cardiovascular drug ‘sodium tanshinone IIA’ is a compound from this species and is also the basis for
a semi-synthetic product (5).
Based mainly on experimental data that indicates improvement to cerebral microcirculation, Chinese
salvia is widely used in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in China. Clinical trials show that it
helps with cerebrovascular circulation (3). In a study that investigated effects on cerebral infarct in
ischaemia-reperfusion injured rats, results demonstrated that salvia can reduce the area of cerebral
infarct, suggesting it may be useful in the treatment of cerebral infarct in humans (6). In human trials,
Chinese salvia injection for patients with traumatic cerebral infarction was found to improve blood
coagulation disorder and possibly alleviate cerebral damage (7). Extracts from this plant used with
shenmai reduced myocardial reperfusion injury in patients with acute myocardial infarction after
percutaneous coronary intervention (8).
Nonetheless, in a recent review of evidence from randomised controlled trials of Chinese salvia agents
used for acute ischaemic stroke, the reviewers concluded that there were too few patients and outcome
events to draw reliable conclusions from the present data (9). They stated that methodological qualities
of all included studies were poor and further high-quality randomised controlled trials should be
performed (9).
Administration may be beneficial for treating glaucoma (10). And extracts are reported to have a
strong inhibitory action on Staphylococcus aureus (11). Previously identified as a potential new crop
for Australia (12) and possibly now produced in very limited amounts (13).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
4.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
5.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
6.Lo C.J., Lin J.G., Kuo J.S., Chiang S.Y., Chen S.C., Liao E.T. & Hsieh C.L. (2003) Effect of Salvia
miltiorrhiza bunge on cerebral infarct in ischemia-reperfusion injured rats. Am J Chin Med., 31(2): 191-200.
7.Zhang R.J., You C., Cai B.W., Wan Y., He M. & Li H. (2004) Effect of compound Salvia injection on blood
coagulation in patients with traumatic cerebral infarction. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 24(10): 882-884.
8.Geng Q.X., Zhu X.L. & Zhang X.H. (2004) Effect of combined therapy of shenmai and compound danshen
injection on myocardial reperfusion injury after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute
myocardial infarction. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 24(6): 496-499.
9.Wu B., Liu M. & Zhang S. (2004) Dan Shen agents for acute ischaemic stroke. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.,
18(4): CD004295.
10.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
11.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
12.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256- 264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.), ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
13.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Sanguisorba officinalis (DI YU) great burnet, burnet bloodwort or salad burnet {R19}
Sanguisorba officinalis is used in traditional Chinese medicine for bleeding, burns and skin ulceration
(1). A native to Asia, Europe and North America and naturalised elsewhere (2). Common in Europe
(3). Cell-line trials point to some activity against cancer (4,5). Given the wide distribution of this
species and lack of efficacy evidence, need for Australian production is questionable.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
3.Chiej R. (1988) The MacDonald Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, Pub.- MacDonald (Orbis) & Co. Ltd., 447
pp.
4.Liu X., Cui Y., Yu Q. & Yu B. (2005) Triterpenoids from Sanguisorba officinalis. Phytochemistry, 66(14):
1671-1679.
5.Goun E.A., Petrichenko V.M., Solodnikov S.U., Suhinina T.V., Kline M.A., Cunningham G., Nguyen C. &
Miles H. (2002) Anticancer and antithrombin activity of Russian plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 81(3): 337-342.
109
Santalum album (TAN XIANG) heartwood of sandalwood {R11}
Reported actions include pain relief and with other herbs it has been used traditionally for angina
pectoris in coronary heart disease (1). The chemical components have been thoroughly investigated.
Extracts showed antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori (2). Another study demonstrated
some nitric oxide scavenging activity (3), and its Ayurvedic use is based on antioxidant activity (4).
The essential oil has been tested for in vitro antiviral activity against Herpes simplex viruses -1 and -2
(5). Replication of these viruses was inhibited in the presence of sandalwood oil but it was not
virucidal, and showed no cytotoxicity at the concentrations tested (5). Two studies on mice reported
possible chemopreventive action on carcinogenesis (6,7).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Ochi T., Shibata H., Higuti T., Kodama K.H., Kusumi T. & Takaishi Y. (2005) Anti-Helicobacter pylori
compounds from Santalum album. J Nat Prod., 68(6): 819-824.
3.Jagetia G.C. & Baliga M.S. (2004) The evaluation of nitric oxide scavenging activity of certain Indian
medicinal plants in vitro: a preliminary study. J Med Food., 7(3): 343-348.
4.Scartezzini P. & Speroni E. (2000) Review on some plants of Indian traditional medicine with antioxidant
activity. J Ethnopharmacol., 71(1-2): 23-43.
5.Benencia F. & Courreges M.C. (1999) Antiviral activity of sandalwood oil against herpes simplex viruses-1
and -2. Phytomedicine., 6(2): 119-123.
6.Dwivedi C. & Abu-Ghazaleh A. (1997) Chemopreventive effects of sandalwood oil on skin papillomas in mice.
Eur J Cancer Prev., 6(4): 399-401.
7.Banerjee S., Ecavade A. & Rao A.R. (1993) Modulatory influence of sandalwood oil on mouse hepatic
glutathione S-transferase activity and acid soluble sulphydryl level. Cancer Lett., 68(2-3): 105-109.
Saposhnikovia divaricata (FANG FENG) ledebouriella or siler {R16}
One traditional use is the alleviation of rheumatic conditions (1). Four ‘furanocoumarins’ and eight
‘chromones’ isolated from the dried root of Saposhnikovia divaricata were evaluated for their effects
on synthesis of nitric oxide induced by lipopolysaccharide in macrophage cell-line RAW 264.7 (2).
Two of these compounds were found to be potential nitric oxide production inhibitors. In another
study, the ethanolic extracts from 10 Chinese herbs were tested for their in vitro effects on K562, Raji,
Wish, HeLa, Calu-1, and Vero tumour cell proliferation (3). ‘Panaxynol’ purified from S. divaricata
had the highest inhibitory activity on proliferation.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Wang C.C., Chen L.G. & Yang L.L. (1999) Inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor of the Chinese herb I.
Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk. Cancer Lett., 145(1-2): 151-157.
3.Kuo Y.C., Lin Y.L., Huang C.P., Shu J.W. & Tsai W.J. (2002) A tumor cell growth inhibitor from
Saposhnikovae divaricata. Cancer Invest., 20(7-8): 955-964.
Sarcandra glabra (ZHONG JIE FENG) {R6}
Sarcandra glabra is traditionally used in the treatment of malignant solid tumours, such as carcinoma
of the pancreas, stomach, oesophagus, rectum, bladder, colon, lungs and thyroid (1). Trials with
patients showed that extracts from this plant improved their sense of ‘well-being’ and decreased
tumour size (1). Mouse experiments suggest that S. glabra may have activity in treatment of
thrombocytopenia (ie. reduction in platelet number) following chemotherapy with 5-FU (2).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Zhong L., Liu T., Chen Y., Zhong X., Du X., Lu Z., Weng J., Wu S. & Lin W. (2005) The study on effect of
Sarcandra glabra on prevention and treatment of thrombocytopenia by chemotherapy. Zhong Yao Cai., 28(1):
35-38.
Sargassum fusiforme (HAI ZAO) sargassum seaweed {R5}
Polysaccharides from this seaweed exhibited antiproliferative activity against human HL-60
promyeloid leukaemia cells (1). This antitumour effect seems to be accomplished through apoptosis
associated with increase in intracellular calcium concentration (2).
1.Liang Q., Li J.C. & Zhang H.F. (2004) Study on the apoptosis of HL-60 human promyeloid leukaemia cells
induced by SFPS. Shi Yan Sheng Wu Xue Bao., 37(2): 125-132.
2.Ji Y.B., Gao S.Y. & Zhang X.J. (2004) Influence of Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharide on apoptosis of tumor
cells. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(3): 245-247.
110
Saussurea costus (MU XIANG) costus {R20}
Rare or endangered (1) but a well known plant used in indigenous systems of medicine for the
treatment of inflammatory conditions (2). Ethanolic extracts of this plant were screened for their effect
on acute and chronic inflammation induced in mice and rats, and were found to significantly inhibit
paw oedema (induced by carrageenan and Freund's complete adjuvant), and to prevent accumulation
of inflammatory cells in carrageenan-induced peritonitis (2). The ethanolic extracts possessed
antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activity and supported the rationale behind traditional use of this
plant (2). Other in vitro and in vivo (rat) experiments supported the presence of antiinflammatory
activity (3,4).
Costus is also used against cancers in East Asia. To understand the molecular basis underlying the
antitumour effects one study analysed the effects on proliferation and on expression of cell
growth/apoptosis related molecules, by using an AGS gastric cancer cell-line (5). It was found that
treatments of costus dramatically reduced cell viabilities in a dose and time dependent manner.
Another investigation reported that extracts were cytotoxic against selected human cancer cell-lines
(6). The antioxidant activity of root compounds has also been established (7). Potential for Australian
production has been recognised (8).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Gokhale A.B., Damre A.S., Kulkami K.R. & Saraf M.N. (2002) Preliminary evaluation of anti-inflammatory
and anti-arthritic activity of S. lappa, A. speciosa and A. aspera. Phytomedicine., 9(5): 433-437.
3.Cho J.Y., Baik K.U., Jung J.H. & Park M.H. (2000) In vitro anti-inflammatory effects of cynaropicrin, a
sesquiterpene lactone, from Saussurea lappa. Eur J Pharmacol., 398(3): 399-407.
4.Damre A.A., Damre A.S. & Saraf M.N. (2003) Evaluation of sesquiterpene lactone fraction of Saussurea lappa
on transudative, exudative and proliferative phases of inflammation. Phytother Res., 17(7): 722-725.
5.Ko S.G., Koh S.H., Jun C.Y., Nam C.G., Bae H.S. & Shin M.K. (2004) Induction of apoptosis by Saussurea
lappa and Pharbitis nil on AGS gastric cancer cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(10): 1604-1610.
6.Sun C.M., Syu W.J., Don M.J., Lu J.J. & Lee G.H. (2003) Cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactones from the root of
Saussurea lappa. J Nat Prod., 66(9): 1175-1180.
7.Pandey M.M., Govindarajan R., Rawat A.K. & Pushpangadan P. (2005) Free radical scavenging potential of
Saussarea costus. Acta Pharm., 55(3): 297-304.
8.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
Schisandra chinensis (WU WEI ZI) schisandra, magnolia vine or five flavour fruit {R19}
Currently grown in Australia (1). The major active constituents in schisandra are lignans found in the
seeds of the fruit. Medicinal uses include treatment for acute and chronic liver diseases, chemical liver
damage, poor liver function, poor mental and sensory performance (2). Some of the compounds have
been investigated in small animals for physiological activity and several of them appear to protect the
liver from toxic substances (3). A review in year 2000 suggested that even though a number of
schizandra products or combinations are currently marketed, their safety and efficacy for any purpose,
particularly anti-hepatotoxic effects, remains unproven (3). Since 2000, this hepatoprotection has not
been well investigated in human trials. However, recent work suggested that schisandra may play a
role in preventing neuronal oxidative damage in rats (4,5). And, along with two other herbs, it
significantly reduced memory impairment in mice (6). Schisandra is also believed to be an effective
adaptogen (7). This plant was identified as one of eight Chinese medicinal plants with potential for
production in the USA (8).
1.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.), ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.) 152 pp.
3.Robbers J.E. & Tyler V.E. (2000) Tyler’s Herbs of choice - The therapeutic use of phytomedicinals. Haworth
Herbal Press, 287 pp.
4.Ichikawa H., Wang X. & Konishi T. (2003) Role of component herbs in antioxidant activity of shengmai san- a
traditional Chinese medicine formula preventing cerebral oxidative damage in rat. Am J Chin Med., 31(4): 509521.
5.Kim S.R., Lee M.K., Koo K.A., Kim S.H., Sung S.H., Lee N.G., Markelonis G.J., Oh T.H., Yang J.H. & Kim
Y.C. (2004) Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from Schisandra chinensis protect primary cultures of rat cortical
cells from glutamate-induced toxicity. J Neurosci Res., 76(3): 397-405.
6.Kang S.Y., Lee K.Y., Koo K.A., Yoon J.S., Lim S.W., Kim Y.C. & Sung S.H. (2005) ESP-102, a standardized
combined extract of Angelica gigas, Saururus chinensis and Schizandra chinensis, significantly improved
scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice. Life Sci., 76(15): 1691-1705.
111
7.Panossian A. & Wagner H. (2005) Stimulating effect of adaptogens: an overview with particular reference to
their efficacy following single dose administration. Phytother Res., 19(10): 819-838.
8.Craker L.E. & Giblette, J. (2002). Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production. pp. 491496. In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
Schisandra sphenanthera (WU WEI ZI) schisandra or lemon wood {R5}
Lignans from the fruit may be helpful in treating viral hepatitis (1). Less well investigated than closely
related Schisandra chinensis.
1.Liu C.S., Fang S.D., Huang M.F., Kao Y.L. & Hsu J.S. (1978) Studies on the active principles of Schisandra
sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils. The structures of schisantherin A, B, C, D, E, and the related compounds. Sci Sin.,
21(4): 483-502.
Scoparia dulcis [Myanmar- DANTA-THUKHA] sweet broomweed {R15}
Distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics; potential weed and a seed contaminant (1). Used in
Ayurvedic medicine for its antihyperglycaemic properties. Scientific support for its antidiabetic effects
has been established in rat trials (eg. 2,3,4). Deemed a potentially useful medicinal plant for Australia
based on these antidiabetic properties (5).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Pari L. & Latha M. (2006) Antihyperlipidemic Effect of Scoparia dulcis (Sweet Broomweed) in Streptozotocin
Diabetic Rats. J Med Food., 9(1): 102-107.
3.Pari L. & Latha M. (2005) Antidiabetic effect of Scoparia dulcis: effect on lipid peroxidation in streptozotocin
diabetes. Gen Physiol Biophys., 24(1): 13-26.
4.Pari L., Latha M. & Rao C.A. (2004) Effect of Scoparia dulcis extract on insulin receptors in streptozotocin
induced diabetic rats: studies on insulin binding to erythrocytes. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. , 15(3-4): 223240.
5.Wondu Holdings Pty. Ltd. (2000) New pharmaceutical, nutraceutical & industrial products - the potential for
Australian agriculture. Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No. 00/173, 145 pp.
Scrophularia buergeriana (BEI XUAN SHEN) figwort {R7}
This plant belongs in the same family as digitalis and is used to lower blood sugar levels (1).
However, recent research using cultured rat cortical neurons has also demonstrated that extracts from
the root exert significant protective effects against neurodegeneration induced by glutamate (2,3,4,5).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Kim S.R., Koo K.A., Sung S.H., Ma C.J., Yoon J.S. & Kim Y.C. (2003) Iridoids from Scrophularia
buergeriana attenuate glutamate-induced neurotoxicity in rat cortical cultures. J Neurosci Res., 74(6): 948-955.
3.Kim S.R., Kang S.Y., Lee K.Y., Kim S.H., Markelonis G.J., Oh T.H. & Kim Y.C. (2003) Anti-amnestic
activity of E-p-methoxycinnamic acid from Scrophularia buergeriana. Brain Res Cogn Brain Res., 17(2): 454461.
4.Kim S.R., Lee K.Y., Koo K.A., Sung S.H., Lee N.G., Kim J. & Kim Y.C. (2002) Four new neuroprotective
iridoid glycosides from Scrophularia buergeriana roots. J Nat Prod., 65(11): 1696-1699.
5.Kim S.R., Sung S.H., Jang Y.P., Markelonis G.J., Oh T.H. & Kim Y.C. (2002) E-p-methoxycinnamic acid
protects cultured neuronal cells against neurotoxicity induced by glutamate. Br J Pharmacol., 135(5): 1281-1291.
Scrophularia ningpoensis (XUAN SHEN) figwort or Ningpo figwort {R12}
This plant belongs in the same family as digitalis and can also improve heart function and lower blood
pressure (1). Scrophularia ningpoensis can lower blood sugar levels, although this effect is said to be
less marked than for Rehmannia glutinosa (2). S. ningpoensis is also among the medicines which are
more frequently prescribed for treating depression-like ailments in past and present traditional Chinese
medical practice (3). Components of the root extracts were cytotoxic against human cancer cell-lines
(4) and root glycosides have demonstrated antioxidative activity (5).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
3.Xu. C, Luo L. & Tan R.X. (2004) Antidepressant effect of three traditional Chinese medicines in the learned
helplessness model. J Ethnopharmacol., 91(2-3): 345-349.
4.Nguyen A.T., Fontaine J., Malonne H., Claeys M., Luhmer M. & Duez P. (2005) A sugar ester and an iridoid
glycoside from Scrophularia ningpoensis. Phytochemistry, 66(10): 1186-1191.
5.Li Y.M., Han Z.H., Jiang S.H., Jiang Y., Yao S.D. & Zhu D.Y. (2000) Fast repairing of oxidized OH radical
adducts of dAMP and dGMP by phenylpropanoid glycosides from Scrophularia ningpoensis Hemsl. Acta
Pharmacol Sin., 21(12): 1125-1128.
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Scutellaria baicalensis (HUANG QIN) Baical skullcap, Chinese scullcap or scute {R24}
This root of this plant has been used to treat- allergic conditions such as hayfever, asthma, urticaria,
eczema, allergic rhinitis; chronic inflammatory conditions especially autoimmune disorders and
chronic infections; acute infections, possibly retroviral infections; hypertension; atherosclerosis;
cataract and diabetic complications (1). The cardiovascular drug ‘scutellarin’ is isolated from
Scutellaria baicalensis (2).
Recent research has focussed on Chinese scullcap’s role in cancer treatment. Administration as an
adjunct in chemotherapy may bring benefits (3,4). By inhibiting angiogenesis, this herb also manifests
anticancer activity (5,6). Some evidence for efficacy in treating prostate cancer (7,8).
Newly reported work has found that flavonoids from the stems and leaves have neuroprotective effects
against hydrogen peroxide toxicity and might be important in treatment of Alzheimer's disease and
Parkinson's disease (9). This plant was identified as one of eight Chinese medicinal plants with
potential for production in the USA (10). Currently grown in Australia (11).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.) 152 pp.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
3.Smol'ianinov E.S., Gol'dberg V.E., Matiash M.G., Ryzhakov V.M., Boldyshev D.A., Litvinenko V.I. & Dygai
A.M. (1997) Effect of Scutellaria baicalensis extract on the immunologic status of patients with lung cancer
receiving antineoplastic chemotherapy. Eksp Klin Farmakol., 60(6): 49-51.
4.Gol'dberg V.E., Ryzhakov V.M., Matiash M.G., Stepovaia E.A., Boldyshev D.A., Litvinenko V.I. & Dygai
A.M. Dry extract of Scutellaria baicalensis as a hemostimulant in antineoplastic chemotherapy in patents with
lung cancer. Eksp Klin Farmakol., 60(6): 28-30.
5.Wang S., Zheng Z., Weng Y., Yu Y., Zhang D., Fan W., Dai R. & Hu Z. (2004) Angiogenesis and antiangiogenesis activity of Chinese medicinal herbal extracts. Life Sci., 74(20): 2467-2478.
6.Yance D.R. Jr & Sagar S.M. (2006) Targeting angiogenesis with integrative cancer therapies. Integr Cancer
Ther., 5(1): 9-29.
7.Adams L.S., Seeram N.P., Hardy M.L., Carpenter C. & Heber D. (2006) Analysis of the interactions of
botanical extract combinations against the viability of prostate cancer cell lines. Evid Based Complement Alternat
Med., 3(1): 117-124.
8.Bonham M., Posakony J., Coleman I., Montgomery B., Simon J. & Nelson P.S. (2005) Characterization of
chemical constituents in Scutellaria baicalensis with antiandrogenic and growth-inhibitory activities toward
prostate carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res., 11(10): 3905-3914.
9.Shang Y.Z., Qin B.W., Cheng J.J. & Miao H. (2006) Prevention of oxidative injury by flavonoids from stems
and leaves of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi in PC12 cells. Phytother Res., 20(1): 53-57.
10.Craker L.E. & Giblette, J. (2002). Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production. pp. 491496. In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
11.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
Scutellaria barbata (BAN ZHI LIAN) barbed skullcap, barbat skullcap or scutellaria {R16}
Scutellaria barbata is a perennial herb which is natively distributed throughout Korea and southern
China. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiinflammatory and antitumour agent
(1). In vitro anticancer activity has been well demonstrated in human cancer cell-lines (eg. 2,3,4).
A crude extract prepared from S. barbata was analysed in an effort to discover compounds that would
be effective against high-level strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (5). Flavonoid
congeners (‘apigenin’ and ‘luteolin’) were isolated from the plant as active constituents and were
selectively toxic to Staphylococcus aureus, including the methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive
strains.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chan J.Y., Tang P.M., Hon P.M., Au S.W., Tsui S.K., Waye M.M., Kong S.K., Mak T.C. & Fung K.P. (2006)
Pheophorbide a, a major antitumor component purified from Scutellaria barbata, induces apoptosis in human
hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Planta Med., 72(1): 28-33.
3.Goh D., Lee Y.H. & Ong E.S. (2005) Inhibitory effects of a chemically standardized extract from Scutellaria
barbata in human colon cancer cell lines, LoVo. J Agric Food Chem., 53(21): 8197-8204.
4.Chui C.H., Lau F.Y., Tang J.C., Kan K.L., Cheng G.Y., Wong R.S., Kok S.H., Lai P.B., Ho R., Gambari R. &
Chan A.S. (2005) Activities of fresh juice of Scutellaria barbata and warmed water extract of Radix Sophorae
Tonkinensis on anti-proliferation and apoptosis of human cancer cell lines. Int J Mol Med., 16(2): 337-341.
113
5.Sato Y., Suzaki S., Nishikawa T., Kihara M., Shibata H. & Higuti T. (2000) Phytochemical flavones isolated
from Scutellaria barbata and antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J
Ethnopharmacol., 72(3): 483-488.
Selaginella doederleinii (SHI SHANG BAI) greater selaginella {R5}
This Chinese herb is used as an anticancer drug (1,2). In a 1988 investigation, the antimutagenic
activities of extracts of 36 commonly used anticancer crude drugs from Chinese herbs were studied by
using the Salmonella/microsomal system in the presence of picrolonic acid or benzo[a]pyrene to test
whether they contain direct or indirect antimutagens (2). Selaginella doederleinii extract showed only
moderate antimutagenic activity against benzo[a]pyrene. This species has received little research
attention in more recent times but remains a popular alternative anticancer treatment (3). There is a
report of a patient developing severe bone marrow suppression after taking this herb (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Lee H. & Lin J.Y. (1988) Antimutagenic activity of extracts from anticancer drugs in Chinese medicine. Mutat
Res., 204(2): 229-234.
3.Pan K.Y., Lin J.L. & Chen J.S. (2001) Severe reversible bone marrow suppression induced by Selaginella
doederleinii. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol., 39(6): 637-639.
Semiaquilegia adoxoides (TIAN KUI ZI) {R6}
Commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine but a scarcity of previous phytochemical studies was
acknowledged in 2005 (1). Said to possess anticancer activity (2).
1.Su Y.F., Zhang Z.X., Guo C.Y. & Guo D.A. (2005) A nobel cyanogenic glycoside from Semiaquilegia
adoxoides. J Asian Nat Prod Res., 7(2): 171-174.
2.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Senna tora (JUE MING ZI) foetid cassia or sickle senna {R12}
Senna tora is said to lower plasma cholesterol and prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in
arterial walls (1). In the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia it has been reported that normal plasma
cholesterol levels can be achieved in 80% of cases if the herb is taken continuously for two weeks; if
treatment is continued for longer, a 96% success rate has been observed (1). C. tora supplements
helped improve serum lipid status in type II diabetic subjects without serious adverse effects (2).
This species is widely naturalised throughout the world (exact native range obscure) and a noxious
weed in some localities (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Cho S.H., Kim T.H., Lee N.H., Son H.S., Cho I.J. & Ha T.Y. (2005) Effects of Cassia tora fiber supplement on
serum lipids in Korean diabetic patients. J Med Food., 8(3): 311-318.
3.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Sinapis alba (JIE ZI) white mustard {R5}
Widely naturalised, perhaps native to the Mediterranean region and elsewhere in Eurasia (1). A weed
in parts of Australia. Used in Chinese medicine to treat asthma (1) but scarce recent scientific
investigation of efficacy.
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Sinomenium acutum (QING TENG) han fang ji {R15}
This plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis for
over a thousand years (1). The active constituent is ‘sinomenine’, an alkaloid from the stems. In 1976,
a Japanese researcher wrote that sinomenine was ‘known’ to be effective in neuralgia and rheumatic
diseases (2). In 1994, cell-line studies in Germany showed lymphocyte antiproliferation effects of
sinomenine and these were linked to antiinflammatory and antiarthritic mechanisms which were
claimed to be ‘obvious’ in clinical trials (3). By 2003, even Australians were investigating this species
and they found some antiinflammatory activity in enzyme trials (4). Very recent published work on
rats describes a new herbal mixture containing extract from Sinomenium acutum as possessing
significant antiinflammatory and analgesic effects, and implies that it would be a potential candidate
for further investigation as a new antiarthritic botanical drug for humans (5). In conclusion, the
evidence for this species (perhaps used in conjunction with other herbs) seems reasonably supportive
but up-to-date human trials would add to its case.
114
1.Zhao Z.Z., Liang Z.T., Zhou H., Jiang Z.H., Liu Z.Q., Wong Y.F., Xu H.X. & Liu L. (2005) Quantification of
sinomenine in caulis sinomenii collected from different growing regions and wholesale herbal markets by a
modified HPLC method. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(1): 105-109.
2.Yamasaki H. (1976) Pharmacology of sinomenine, an anti-rheumatic alkaloid from Sinomenium acutum. Acta
Med Okayama., 30(1): 1-20.
3.Liu L., Resch K. & Kaever V. (1994) Inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation by the anti-arthritic drug
sinomenine. Int J Immunopharmacol., 16(8): 685-691.
4.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
5.Zhou H., Wong Y.F., Cai X., Liu Z.Q., Jiang Z.H., Bian Z.X., Xu H.X. & Liu L. (2006) Suppressive effects of
JCICM-6, the extract of an anti-arthritic herbal formula, on the experimental inflammatory and nociceptive
models in rodents. Biol Pharm Bull., 29(2): 253-260.
Siraitia grosvenorii (LUO HAN GUO) momordica or Monk’s fruit {R8}
Glycosides are the bioactive components of many famous Chinese medicines and many biologically
active triterpenoid glycosides have been isolated from Siraitia grosvenorii (1). To search for cancer
chemopreventive agents from natural resources, two sweeteners (glycosides ‘mogroside V’ and ‘11oxo-mogroside V’) isolated from S. grosvenorii were investigated. They were found to exhibit strong
inhibitory effects in primary antitumour screening tests indicating induction of Epstein-Barr virus
early antigen by a tumour promoter (2). These glycosides also exhibited significant inhibitory effects
in two-stage carcinogenesis tests of mouse skin tumours (2). In another study, eighteen triterpenoids
from the fruit were also evaluated for inhibitory effects on induction of Epstein-Barr virus early
antigen by tumour promoter in Raji cells (3). All of the tested Monk’s fruit compounds showed potent
inhibitory effects.
1.Zhou J. (1991) Bioactive glycosides from Chinese medicines. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz., Suppl 2: 231-234.
2.Takasaki M., Konoshima T., Murata Y., Sugiura M., Nishino H., Tokuda H., Matsumoto K., Kasai R. &
Yamasaki K. (2003) Anticarcinogenic activity of natural sweeteners, cucurbitane glycosides, from Momordica
grosvenori. Cancer Lett., 198(1): 37-42.
3.Ukiya M., Akihisa T., Tokuda H., Toriumi M., Mukainaka T., Banno N., Kimura Y., Hasegawa J. & Nishino
H.
(2002) Inhibitory effects of cucurbitane glycosides and other triterpenoids from the fruit of Momordica
grosvenori on epstein-barr virus early antigen induced by tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate.
J Agric Food Chem., 50(23): 6710-6715.
Smilax glabra (TU FU LING) Chinese smilax or glabrous greenbrier {R21}
Smilax glabra is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine that has been used clinically to prevent
leptospirosis and to treat syphilis and acute bacterial dysentery; however, its extracts have also shown
antitumour and antiatherosclerosis activity (1). A decoction comprised of Nigella sativa seeds,
Hemidesmus indicus root and Smilax glabra rhizome is used to treat cancer patients in Sri Lanka (2).
Results from trials suggest that this mixture can protect rat liver against chemical induced
hepatocarcinogenesis (2). Further experiments are considered worthwhile to determine the anticancer
potential of this plant decoction and its components (3). Some hypoglycaemic effects have been
reported in mice (4).
1.Yi Y., Cao Z., Yang D., Cao Y., Wu Y. & Zhao S. (1998) Studies on the chemical constituents of Smilax
glabra. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 33(11): 873-875.
2.Iddamaldeniya S.S., Wickramasinghe N., Thabrew I., Ratnatunge N. & Thammitiyagodage M.G. (2003)
Protection against diethylnitrosoamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis by an indigenous medicine comprised of
Nigella sativa, Hemidesmus indicus and Smilax glabra: a preliminary study. J Carcinog., 2(1): 6.
3.Thabrew M.I., Mitry R.R., Morsy M.A. & Hughes R.D. (2005) Cytotoxic effects of a decoction of Nigella
sativa, Hemidesmus indicus and Smilax glabra on human hepatoma HepG2 cells. Life Sci., 77(12): 1319-1330.
4.Fukunaga T., Miura T., Furuta K. & Kato A. (1997) Hypoglycemic effect of the rhizomes of Smilax glabra in
normal and diabetic mice. Biol Pharm Bull., 20(1): 44-46.
Smilax sieboldii - smilax {R2}
Smilax sieboldii is a climbing shrub that grows in Korea, Japan and China. The subterranean parts are
used in Chinese medicine to treat arthritis, tumours and lumbago (1). The rhizomes are rich in steroidal
saponins (1,2).
1.Woo M.H., Do J.C. & Son K.H. (1992) Five new spirostanol glycosides from the subterranean parts of Smilax
sieboldii. J of Natural Products, 55: 1129-1135.
2.Kubo S., Mimaki Y., Sashida Y., Nikaido T. & Ohmoto T. (1992) Steroidal saponins from the rhizomes of
Smilax sieboldii. Phytochemistry., 31(7): 2445-2450.
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Sophora flavescens (KU SHEN or KU SENG) sophora or shrubby sophora {R22}
‘Oxymatrine’, an alkaloid extracted from the traditional Chinese herb Sophora flavescens, has
activities including- antiinflammation, immune reaction inhibition, antivirus, hepatocyte protection
and antihepatic fibrosis (1). Oxymatrine has been widely used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis, by
virtue of its antiinflammatory and antiapoptotic activity (2). Results from a study on rats indicate that
oxymatrine may represent a potent drug to protect the liver against warm ischaemia and reperfusion
injury (2).
It has been shown that ‘kurorinone’ extracted from S. flavescens, possesses antiviral properties. The
efficacy and safety of kurorinone treatment in human patients with chronic hepatitis B was
investigated and results suggested that kurorinone is able to inhibit hepatitis B virus replication and
improve disease remission (3). A systematic review of randomised clinical trials evaluating the effects
of this plant on chronic hepatitis B, showed that ‘matrine’ (aqueous extract of S. flavescens) had
antiviral activity, positive liver biochemical effects, and improved symptoms compared with nonspecific treatment and other herbal medicines (4). However, it was concluded that evidence was not
sufficient to recommend matrine for routine clinical use due to the low methodological quality of
studies; new rigorous trials are needed (4). Matrine is also used for its anticancer activity (5).
Coxsackievirus B3 is a major pathogen for acute and chronic viral myocarditis. However,
‘sophoridine’ from S. flavescens showed activity against Coxsackievirus B3 and may represent a
potential therapeutic agent for viral myocarditis (6).
1.Xu G.L., Yao L., Rao S.Y., Gong Z.N., Zhang S.Q. & Yu S.Q. (2005) Attenuation of acute lung injury in mice
by oxymatrine is associated with inhibition of phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. J
Ethnopharmacol., 98(1-2): 177-183.
2.Jiang H., Meng F., Li J. & Sun X. (2005) Anti-apoptosis effects of oxymatrine protect the liver from warm
ischemia reperfusion injury in rats. World J Surg., 29(11): 1397-1401.
3.Chen C., Guo S.M. & Liu B. (2000) A randomized controlled trial of kurorinone versus interferon-alpha2a
treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B. J Viral Hepat., 7(3): 225-229.
4.Liu J., Zhu M., Shi R. & Yang M. (2003) Radix Sophorae flavescentis for chronic hepatitis B: a systematic
review of randomized trials. Am J Chin Med., 31(3): 337-354.
5.Chang Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv, Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
6.Zhang Y., Zhu H., Ye G., Huang C., Yang Y., Chen R., Yu Y. & Cui X. (2006) Antiviral effects of sophoridine
against coxsackievirus B3 and its pharmacokinetics in rats. Life Sci., 78(17): 1998-2005.
Sophora tonkinensis (SHAN DOU GEN) Vietnamese sophora {R10}
This herb is said to possess anticancer activity (1,2). ‘Sophoranone’ from a fraction extracted with
methanol from the roots, inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in various lines of cells from
human solid tumours (3). Results indicated that sophoranone might be a unique apoptosis-inducing
anticancer agent that targets mitochondria. ‘Matrine’ from the roots showed significant inhibition of
lens-protein induced ocular inflammation in rabbits, and may be a safer ocular antiinflammatory agent
than corticosteroids (4).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Kojima R., Fukushima S., Ueno A. & Saiki Y. (1970) Antitumor activity of Leguminosae plants constituents. I.
Antitumor activity of constituents of Sophora subprostrata. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 18(12): 2555-2563.
3.Kajimoto S., Takanashi N., Kajimoto T., Xu M., Cao J., Masuda Y., Aiuchi T., Nakajo S., Ida Y. & Nakaya K.
(2002) Sophoranone, extracted from a traditional Chinese medicine Shan Dou Gen, induces apoptosis in human
leukemia U937 cells via formation of reactive oxygen species and opening of mitochondrial permeability
transition pores. Int J Cancer, 99(6): 879-890.
4.Chuang C.Y., Xiao J.G. & Chiou G.C. (1987) Ocular anti-inflammatory actions of matrine. J Ocul Pharmacol.,
3(2): 129-134.
Sparganium eurycarpum (SAN LENG) bur reed {R7}
Used in Korean traditional prescriptions for inflammatory diseases. Limited research.
116
Spatholobus suberectus (JI XUE TENG ) spatholobus or mi hua dou {R14}
Traditionally used as a treatment for poor blood circulation, inflammation, pain in the waist and knees,
numbness in the extremities and arthralgia due to wind dampness (1). Contains flavonoids (2)
including ‘catechin’ (3) which are believed to have some value in fighting tumours, as well as
enhancing immune system function.
Australian research examined the antiinflammatory activity of ethanol extract from this vine against a
panel of five key enzymes relating to inflammation. Spatholobus suberectus extract was found to be
active against four of the tested enzymes (3). In other work, S. suberectus extracts were especially
potent in human epidermal melanocytes in respect to free radical scavenging effects (4). The methanol
extracts also elicited significant in vitro inhibition (>90%) of human immunodeficiency virus type-1
protease activity (5).
In a clinical trial investigating the pharmaceutical effect on bone marrow hematopoiesis (ie. formation
and development of blood cells) and microenvironment of aplastic anaemia, 106 cases of aplastic
anaemia patients were treated with spatholobus extract (6). The pathological change in marrow was
observed for 24 months and compared with 17 control volunteers. The total effective rate was 77.4%
with the extract deemed to exert reconstructive action on the marrow microenvironment (6). SS8, a
monomer extracted from S. suberectus also distinctly stimulated the proliferation of hematopoietec
progenitor cells in a time and dosage dependent manner in mice with bone marrow depression (7).
Other mouse studies report that the active components of this species promote proliferation of bone
marrow cells (8,9).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Yoon J.S., Sung S.H., Park J.H. & Kim Y.C. (2004) Flavonoids from Spatholobus suberectus. Arch Pharm
Res., 27(6): 589-592.
3.Liu C., Ma L., Chen R.Y. & Liu P. (2005) Determination of catechin and its analogues in Spatholobus
suberectus by RP-HPLC. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 30(18): 1433-1435.
4.Wang K.H., Lin R.D., Hsu F.L., Huang Y.H., Chang H.C., Huang C.Y. & Lee M.H. (2006) Cosmetic
applications of selected traditional Chinese herbal medicines. J Ethnopharmacol., 106(3): 353-359.
5.Lam T.L., Lam M.L., Au T.K., Ip D.T., Ng T.B., Fong W.P. & Wan D.C. (2000) A comparison of human
immunodeficiency virus type-1 protease inhibition activities by the aqueous and methanol extracts of Chinese
medicinal herbs. Life Sci., 67(23): 2889-2896.
6.Su E.Y. & Chen H.S. (1997) Clinical observation on aplastic anemia treated by Spatholobus suberectus
Composita. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 17(4): 213-215.
7.Wang D.X., Chen M.L., Yin J.F. & Liu P. (2003) Effect of SS8, the active part of Spatholobus suberectus
Dunn, on proliferation of hematopoietic progenitor cells in mice with bone marrow depression. Zhongguo Zhong
Yao Za Zhi., 28(2): 152-155.
8.Chen D.H., Luo X., Yu M.Y., Zhao Y.Q., Cheng Y.F. & Yang Z.R. (2004) Effect of Spatholobus suberectus on
the bone marrow cells and related cytokines of mice. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(4): 352-355.
9.Liu P., Wang D.X., Chen R.Y., Chen M.L., Yin J.F. & Chen G.Y. (2004) Effect of catechin on bone marrow
cell cycle and gene expression of hematopoietic growth factors. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 39(6): 424-428.
Stellaria dichotoma (YIN CHAI HU) starwort or stellaria {R8}
Dichotomins from the roots showed a moderate vasorelaxant effect on rat aorta (1). ‘Dichotomoside
D’, a new glycoside from the root inhibited the release of beta-hexosaminidase as well as tumour
necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-4 in RBL-2H3 cells (2). Findings suggest that dichotomoside D
is more effective against late-phase reactions in type I allergy than in the immediate phase.
1.Morita H., Iizuka T., Choo C.Y., Chan K.L., Itokawa H. & Takeya K. (2005) Dichotomins J and K, vasodilator
cyclic peptides from Stellaria dichotoma. J Nat Prod., 68(11): 1686-1688.
2.Morikawa T., Sun B., Matsuda H., Wu L.J., Harima S. & Yoshikawa M. (2004) Bioactive constituents from
Chinese natural medicines. XIV.New glycosides of beta-carboline-type alkaloid, neolignan, and phenylpropanoid
from Stellaria dichotoma L. var. lanceolata and their antiallergic activities. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 52(10):
1194-1199.
Stemmacantha uniflora (LOU LU or LOUR LU) rhaponticum {R14}
Used in China for its anticancer (1) and antiarthritic activity (2). In animal trials, extracts exhibited an
antioxidation effect which inhibited lipid peroxide production and improved membrane fluidity of
cells, making atherosclerosis lesions less severe (3).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
3.Lu Y.C. (1993) Lipid peroxide, membrane fluidity of smooth muscle cells and atherosclerosis. Zhonghua Bing
Li Xue Za Zhi., 22(1): 42-45.
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Stemona tuberosa (BAI BU) stemona {R11}
Medullary thyroid carcinoma is a rare calcitonin-producing tumour, derived from the parafollicular Ccells of the thyroid and it is known to be relatively insensitive to conventional chemotherapy (1). The
effects on proliferation and apoptotic rates of eight cell-lines established from medullary thyroid
carcinoma were investigated following treatment with 10 agents from plants of the genera Stemona,
Aglaia and Artemisia. Enhancement of apoptosis was provoked particularly by Stemona tuberosa (1).
1.Rinner B., Siegl V., Purstner P., Efferth T., Brem B., Greger H. & Pfragner R. (2004) Activity of novel plant
extracts against medullary thyroid carcinoma cells. Anticancer Res., 24(2A): 495-500.
Stephania tetrandra (FANG JI) stephania {R17}
The root contains many isoquinoline alkaloids, the major one being a bis-ben-zylisoquinoline alkaloid
known as ‘tetrandrine’ (1). Stephania tetrandra’s traditional use as an antirheumatic herb has been
supported from the results of in vivo mouse experiments suggesting that therapeutic effects are exerted
possibly by causing immunomodulatory effects at specific sites (2). More recently, a human study
suggested that the suppressive effect of S. tetrandra administration on excessive granulocyte activation
resulted in the improvement of inflammation with rheumatoid arthritis (3). At least five human trials
concluded that tetrandrine can improve heart function and lower blood pressure (1). Tetrandrine is also
approved by State Drugs Administration of China as a new drug for the treatment of silicosis (4). In
general, the clinical results to date with tetrandrine in asthma and pulmonary hypertension have been
exciting (4). Tetrandrine’s role in cancer prevention is also receiving considerable investigative
attention (5,6).
This flowering plant is a member of the family Menispermaceae. The root is most commonly used and
it is dug in autumn, dried in sunlight, sliced and used unprepared (7). Traditional administration: 5-10
g decocted in water for an oral dose (7).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Niizawa A., Kogure T., Hai L.X., Fujinaga H., Takahashi K., Shimada Y. & Terasawa K. (2003) Clinical and
immunomodulatory effects of fun-boi, an herbal medicine, on collagen-induced arthritis in vivo. Clin Exp
Rheumatol., 21(1): 57-62.
3.Sekiya N., Shimada Y., Niizawa A., Kogure T., Mantani N., Sakai S., Hikiami H. & Terasawa K. (2004)
Suppressive effects of Stephania tetrandra on the neutrophil function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Phytother Res., 18(3): 247-249.
4.Xie Q.M., Tang H.F., Chen J.Q. & Bian R.L. (2002) Pharmacological actions of tetrandrine in inflammatory
pulmonary diseases. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 23(12): 1107-1113.
5.Meng L.H., Zhang H., Hayward L., Takemura H., Shao R.G. & Pommier Y. (2004) Tetrandrine induces early
G1 arrest in human colon carcinoma cells by down-regulating the activity and inducing the degradation of G1-Sspecific cyclin-dependent kinases and by inducing p53 and p21Cip1. Cancer Res., 64(24): 9086-9092.
6.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
7.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Strobilanthes cusia (QING DAI or DA CHING YEH) natural indigo or Assam indigo {R7}
Widely cultivated in East Asia (1). The root of Strobilanthes cusia has been commonly used in
traditional Chinese medicine to treat influenza, epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis, encephalitis B,
viral pneumonia, mumps and severe acute respiratory syndrome (ie. SARS) (2). The leaf is also used
in traditional Chinese medicine for inflammatory diseases. A study which investigated the
antinociceptive, antiinflammatory and antipyretic effects of methanol extract of the leaf found that the
extract significantly inhibited the writhing responses of mice, and decreased licking time in both early
and late phases in a formalin test (3). It also reduced rat paw oedema induced by carrageenan (3).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Tanaka T., Ikeda T., Kaku M., Zhu X.H., Okawa M., Yokomizo K., Uyeda M. & Nohara T. (2004)
A new lignan glycoside and phenylethanoid glycosides from Strobilanthes cusia BREMEK. Chem Pharm Bull.
(Tokyo), 52(10): 1242-1245.
3.Ho Y.L., Kao K.C., Tsai H.Y., Chueh F.Y. & Chang Y.S. (2003) Evaluation of antinociceptive, antiinflammatory and antipyretic effects of Strobilanthes cusia leaf extract in male mice and rats. Am J Chin Med.,
31(1): 61-69.
118
Strophanthus divaricatus (YANG GUO NAU) {R2}
The cardiac glycosides from this plant are said to increase myocardiac contractility, slow the heart beat
and increase cardiac output (1).
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
Styphnolobium japonicum (HUAI HUA or HUAI JIAO) sophora, Chinese scholar tree, pagoda
tree or Japanese pagoda tree {R24}
Extracts from Styphnolobium japonicum are used for properties including- antiinflammatory,
antibacterial, antispasmodic and antihypertensive (1,2). Antioxidative activity has been identified (3)
and the antiinflammatory action of ‘sophoricoside’ from the fruits has been demonstrated in animal
experiments (4). More recently, studies have found that this plant and Ginkgo biloba have the same
components of ‘quercetin’ and ‘rutin’, but only Ginkgo biloba has been widely used to treat
cerebrovascular disorders and dementia in humans (5). An experiment investigating the effect of S.
japonicum extract on cerebral infarct in rats demonstrated that it could reduce the cerebral infarction
area and neurological deficit induced by ischaemia-reperfusion, suggesting its potential as a treatment
for cerebral infarct in humans (5).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
3.Tang Y.P., Li Y.F., Hu J. & Lou F.C. (2002) Isolation and identification of antioxidants from Sophora
japonica. J Asian Nat Prod Res., 4(2): 123-128.
4.Kim B.H., Chung E.Y., Min B.K., Lee S.H., Kim M.K., Min K.R. & Kim Y. (2003) Anti-inflammatory action
of legume isoflavonoid sophoricoside through inhibition on cyclooxygenase-2 activity. Planta Med., 69(5): 474476.
5.Lao C.J., Lin J.G., Kuo J.S., Chao P.D., Cheng C.Y., Tang N.Y. & Hsieh C.L. (2005) Microglia, apoptosis and
interleukin-1beta expression in the effect of Sophora japonica l. on cerebral infarct induced by ischemiareperfusion in rats. Am J Chin Med., 33(3): 425-438.
Taraxacum mongolicum (PU GONG YING) dandelion {R6}
This herb is seen everywhere in China (1) and is widely used for its antibacterial activity (2). Also
used as a herbal medicinal treatment against cancers in East Asia but was ineffective in trials on gastric
cancer cell-lines (3). This species was one of 10 highly effective herbs (out of 472 tested) against
herpes simplex virus in tissue culture trials (4).
1.Li C.P. (1974) Chinese herbal medicine. A publication of the John E. Fogarty International Center for
Advanced Study in the Health Sciences (US Depart of Health, Education & Welfare), 120 pp.
2.Zhu M., Wong P.Y. & Li R.C. (1999) Effects of Taraxacum mongolicum on the bioavailability and disposition
of ciprofloxacin in rats. J Pharm Sci., 88(6): 632-634.
3.Ko S.G., Koh S.H., Jun C.Y., Nam C.G., Bae H.S. & Shin M.K. (2004) Induction of apoptosis by Saussurea
lappa and Pharbitis nil on AGS gastric cancer cells. Biol Pharm Bull., 27(10): 1604-1610.
4.Zheng M. (1990) Experimental study of 472 herbs with antiviral action against the herpes simplex virus. Zhong
Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 10(1): 6, 39-41.
Taxillus chinensis (SANG JI SHENG) mulberry mistletoe {R2}
Used in Chinese medicine to strengthen the muscles and bones, for rheumatic and rheumatoid arthritis,
and for treatment of hypertension (1). No recent medical literature was found on this species.
However, the chemical constituents of other Taxillus mistletoes have been investigated in Japan for
treating diabetes and hypertension (2).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Fukunaga T., Nishiya K., Kajikawa I., Takeya K. & Itokawa H. (1989) Studies on the constituents of Japanese
mistletoes from different host trees, and their antimicrobial and hypotensive properties. Chemical &
Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 37: 1543-1546.
Terminalia arjuna [India- ARJUNA] terminalia, kahua, kumbuk or white murdh {R11}
A tropical woody tree found throughout India near rivers and streams and growing to 30 m. An
important cardiotonic plant described in the Ayurveda and prized for treatment of heart disorders for
hundreds of years (1). Extracts from the bark are used to treat angina and congestive heart failure
(1,2,3). Benefits have been established in human clinical trials. Patients with acute myocardial
infarction receiving adjuvant Terminalia arjuna showed significant decrease in ischaemic mitral
regurgitation, improvement in E/A ratio and considerable reduction in anginal frequency (4). T. arjuna
therapy for two weeks lead to significant regression of endothelial abnormality amongst smokers (5).
In other research, T. arjuna bark extract given to patients with stable angina with provocable
119
ischaemia on treadmill exercise, led to improvement in clinical and treadmill exercise parameters as
compared to placebo therapy (6). The bark powder also showed significant antioxidant action
comparable to vitamin E, and it displayed a significant hypocholesterolaemic effect (7). Proprietary
herbal products containing components developed from T. arjuna are available (8). Recognised as a
potential new crop for Australia (9).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Pub.- Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
3.Miller A.L. (1998) Botanical influences on cardiovascular disease. Altern Med Rev., 3(6): 422-431.
4.Dwivedi S., Aggarwal A., Agarwal M.P. & Rajpal S. (2005) Role of Terminalia arjuna in ischaemic mitral
regurgitation. Int J Cardiol., 100(3): 507-508.
5.Bharani A., Ahirwar L.K. & Jain N. (2004) Terminalia arjuna reverses impaired endothelial function in chronic
smokers. Indian Heart J., 56(2): 123-128.
6.Bharani A., Ganguli A., Mathur L.K., Jamra Y. & Raman P.G. (2002) Efficacy of Terminalia arjuna in chronic
stable angina: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study comparing Terminalia arjuna with isosorbide
mononitrate. Indian Heart J., 54(2): 170-175.
7.Gupta R., Singhal S., Goyle A. & Sharma V.N. (2001) Antioxidant and hypocholesterolaemic effects of
Terminalia arjuna tree-bark powder: a randomised placebo-controlled trial. J Assoc Physicians India., 49: 231235.
8.Kumar P.U., Adhikari P., Pereira P. & Bhat P. (1999) Safety and efficacy of Hartone in stable angina pectorisan open comparative trial. J Assoc Physicians India, 47(7): 685-689.
9.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Terminalia bellirica [Myanmar- THIT-SEINT] bastard mybolan, bedda nuts, belleric, beleric
myrobalan or beach-almond {R2}
Used in Myanmar traditional medicine for heart disease and asthma (1). This species has not attracted
much investigative attention but in one experiment evaluating 30 hypoglycaemic medicinal plants
from indigenous folk medicines (Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha), a blood glucose lowering effect of
Terminalia bellirica was observed in alloxan induced-diabetic rats (2).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
2.Kar A., Choudhary B.K. & Bandyopadhyay, N.G. (2003) Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of
some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 84(1): 105-108.
Terminalia chebula (HE ZI) [Myanmar- HPAN-GA] black myrobalan {R10}
While the traditional medicinal uses of Terminalia chebula are of little interest with respect to current
Australian chronic diseases, new research points to possible value and this plant has been the focus of
considerable recent research. Extracts from T. chebula showed antibacterial activity against
Staphylococcus aureus (1). ‘Chebulagic acid’ from the immature seeds significantly suppressed the
onset and progression of collagen-induced arthritis in mice (2).
Another study investigated the cancer chemopreventive potential of ‘Triphala’, a combination of fruit
powder of three different plants including T. chebula (3). Triphala is a popular formulation of
Ayurvedic medicine. Findings showed that Triphala in the diet significantly reduced benzo(a)pyrene
induced forestomach papillomagenesis in mice. Triphala also significantly increased the antioxidant
status of animals and this may have contributed to the chemoprevention (3). Other work points to
significant inhibitory activity on oxidative stress of the ethanol extract from this fruit (4).
1.Aqil F., Khan M.S., Owais M. & Ahmad I. (2005) Effect of certain bioactive plant extracts on clinical isolates
of beta-lactamase producing methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Basic Microbiol., 45(2): 106-114.
2.Lee S.I., Hyun P.M., Kim S.H., Kim K.S., Lee S.K., Kim B.S., Maeng P.J. & Lim J.S. (2005) Suppression of
the onset and progression of collagen-induced arthritis by chebulagic acid screened from a natural product
library. Arthritis Rheum., 52(1): 345-353.
3.Deep G., Dhiman M., Rao A.R. & Kale R.K. (2005) Chemopreventive potential of Triphala (a composite
Indian drug) on benzo(a)pyrene induced forestomach tumorigenesis in murine tumor model system. J Exp Clin
Cancer Res., 24(4): 555-563.
4.Na M., Bae K., Kang S.S., Min B.S., Yoo J.K., Kamiryo Y., Senoo Y., Yokoo S. & Miwa N. (2004)
Cytoprotective effect on oxidative stress and inhibitory effect on cellular aging of Terminalia chebula fruit.
Phytother Res., 18(9): 737-741.
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Tetrapanax papyrifer (TONG CAO) Chinese rice-paper plant {R8}
The antiinflammatory activity of Tetrapanax papyrifer has been examined in animal studies (1,2) but
other plants used for this purpose have been better investigated.
1.Sugishita E., Amagaya S. & Ogihara Y. (1983) Studies on the mechanism of anti-inflammatory activities of
papyriogenin a and papyriogenin C. J Pharmacobiodyn., 6(5): 287-294.
2.Sugishita E., Amagaya S. & Ogihara Y. (1982) Structure-activity studies of some oleanane triterpenoid
glycosides and their related compounds from the leaves of Tetrapanax papyriferum on anti-inflammatory
activities. J Pharmacobiodyn., 5(6): 379-387.
Thalictrum faberi {R2}
Thalictrum faberi is used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiphlogistic and to treat stomach
cancer (1). Alkaloids from the roots have shown cytotoxic activity against several human cancer celllines (1,2). Root alkaloids have also displayed antimalarial activity (2). Note: this scientific name is
under review.
1.Lin L.Z., Hu S.F., Zaw K., Angerhofer C.K., Chai H., Pezzuto J.M., Cordell G.A., Lin J. & Zheng D.M. (1994)
Thalifaberidine, a cytotoxic aporphine-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid from Thalictrum faberi. J Nat Prod., 57(10):
1430-1436.
2.Lin L.Z., Hu S.F., Chu M., Chan T.M., Chai H., Angerhofer C.K., Pezzuto J.M. & Cordell G.A. (1999)
Phenolic aporphine-benzylisoquinoline alkaloids from Thalictrum faberi. Phytochemistry, 50(5): 829-834.
Thevetia peruviana (HUANG HUA JIA ZHU TAO) yellow oleander or lucky nut {R3}
The seed of this herb contains several cardiac glycosides and the pharmacological effects are similar to
those of digitalis (1). Clinical trials on 357 cases of congestive heart failure showed a 78.4% effective
rate (1). The cardiovascular drug ‘peruvoside’ is extracted from Thevetia peruviana (2). This plant is
grown as an ornamental in Australia.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Chang-Xiao Liu & Yaniv Z. (2005) Research and development of new drugs originating from Chinese plants,
pp. 61-96. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach U. (Eds.), ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products PressHaworth Press, 500 pp.
Tinospora cordifolia [Myanmar- SINDONE-MA-NWE] heart leaved moon seed {R24}
A medicinal plant used in Myanmar for arthritis and heart palpitations (1). Also an Ayurvedic herb
used historically for infections, arthritis and fever (2). It may be effective in improving survival rates
after high risk surgeries by enhancing the immune response (3,4).
Since year 2000, this species has been extensively investigated for its anticancer and antidiabetic
properties. The diabetic research has focussed on animal trials. Oral administration of an aqueous
Tinospora cordifolia root extract to alloxan-induced diabetic rats resulted in a significant reduction in
blood glucose and brain lipids (5). The extract caused an increase in body weight, total haemoglobin
and hepatic hexokinase but also lowered hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase and serum acid phosphatase,
alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase in the rats. Thus T. cordifolia root extract has
hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic effects (5). In other work on alloxan-induced diabetic rats, T.
cordifolia ethanolic extracts again showed significant blood glucose lowering activity (6). Blood
glucose values were brought down close to normal fasting level using herbal samples at a dose of 250
mg/kg once, twice or thrice daily, as needed. An alcohol extract of T. cordifolia roots had
hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic actions in yet another rat study (7). Root extract also acted as an
antioxidant defence in diabetic rats (8).
Cancer research on this plant has also been based on rodents. Alcoholic extract of T. cordifolia
activated tumour associated macrophages of Dalton's lymphoma and thus may have clinical
implications (9). The dichloromethane extract of T. cordifolia exerted cytotoxic effect on tumour cells
by reducing glutathione concentration and increasing lipid peroxidation simultaneously (10). In vivo
administration of alcoholic extract to mice bearing spontaneous T cell lymphoma retarded tumour
growth and prolonged survival (11). T. cordifolia was found to augment proliferation of thymocytes
with a concomitant decrease in thymocyte apoptosis. Another study indicated that extracts of this plant
can influence the myeloid differentiation of mouse bone marrow progenitor cells and the recruitment
of macrophages in response to tumour growth in situ (12).
1.Soe K. & Myo Ngwe T. (2004) Medicinal plants of Myanmar. Pub.- Myanmar Forest Resource Environment
Development & Conservation Association, 255 pp.
121
2.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
3.Kapil A. & Sharma S. (1997) Immunopotentiating compounds from Tinospora cordifolia. J Ethnopharmacol.,
58(2): 89-95.
4.Rege N., Bapat R.D., Koti R., Desai N.K. & Dahanukar S. (1993) Immunotherapy with Tinospora cordifolia: a
new lead in the management of obstructive jaundice. Indian J Gastroenterol., 12(1): 5-8.
5.Stanely P., Prince M. & Menon V.P. (2000) Hypoglycaemic and other related actions of Tinospora cordifolia
roots in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 70(1): 9-15.
6.Kar A., Choudhary B.K. & Bandyopadhyay N.G. (2003) Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of
some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 84(1): 105-108.
7.Stanely Mainzen Prince P. & Menon V.P. (2003) Hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic action of alcohol extract
of Tinospora cordifolia roots in chemical induced diabetes in rats. Phytother Res., 17(4): 410-413.
8.Prince P.S., Padmanabhan M. & Menon V.P. (2004) Restoration of antioxidant defence by ethanolic Tinospora
cordifolia root extract in alloxan-induced diabetic liver and kidney. Phytother Res., 18(9): 785-787.
9.Singh N., Singh S.M. & Shrivastava P. (2004) Immunomodulatory and antitumor actions of medicinal plant
Tinospora cordifolia are mediated through activation of tumor-associated macrophages. Immunopharmacol
Immunotoxicol., 26(1): 145-162.
10.Jagetia G.C. & Rao S.K. (2006) Evaluation of the antineoplastic activity of guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) in
Ehrlich ascites carcinoma bearing mice. Biol Pharm Bull., 29(3): 460-466.
11.Singh N., Singh S.M., Prakash & Singh G. (2005) Restoration of thymic homeostasis in a tumor-bearing host
by in vivo administration of medicinal herb Tinospora cordifolia. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol., 27(4): 585599.
12.Singh S.M., Singh N. & Shrivastava P. (2006) Effect of alcoholic extract of Ayurvedic herb Tinospora
cordifolia on the proliferation and myeloid differentiation of bone marrow precursor cells in a tumor-bearing
host. Fitoterapia., 77(1): 1-11.
Tinospora crispa {R11}
Used in traditional Malaysian medicine for malaria, bacterial infections, high blood pressure, diabetes
and cholera (1). Extracts were able to inhibit more than 50% of the growth of malaria parasite (2), and
another study reported that the antimalarial effects were considerable (3). The efficacy of Tinospora
crispa extract for treatment of diabetes has been supported in animal models (4,5). However, a more
recent randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled human trial has considered T. crispa as an
additional treatment for patients with type II diabetes mellitus who did not respond to oral
hypoglycaemic drugs, and refused insulin injection (6). There were no significant changes in fasting
plasma glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin and insulin levels among the patients within the treatment
group and between the treatment and placebo groups. It was concluded that there was no evidence to
support the use of T. crispa (at rates of 3 g a day) (6). Based on animal studies, Tinospora extract has
been recommended for clinical treatment of various types of inflammation (7).
1.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
2.Bertani S., Bourdy G., Landau I., Robinson J.C., Esterre P. & Deharo E. (2005) Evaluation of French Guiana
traditional antimalarial remedies. J Ethnopharmacol., 98(1-2): 45-54.
3.Najib Nik A., Rahman N., Furuta T., Kojima S., Takane K. & Ali Mohd M. (1999) Antimalarial activity of
extracts of Malaysian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 64(3): 249-254.
4.Noor H., Hammonds P., Sutton R. & Ashcroft S.J. (1989) The hypoglycaemic and insulinotropic activity of
Tinospora crispa: studies with human and rat islets and HIT-T15 B cells. Diabetologia., 32(6): 354-359.
5.Noor H. & Ashcroft S.J. (1989) Antidiabetic effects of Tinospora crispa in rats. J Ethnopharmacol., 27(1-2):
149-161.
6.Sangsuwan C., Udompanthurak S., Vannasaeng S. & Thamlikitkul V. (2004) Randomized controlled trial of
Tinospora crispa for additional therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Med Assoc Thai., 87(5): 543546.
7.Higashino H., Suzuki A., Tanaka Y. & Pootakham K. (1992) Inhibitory effects of Siamese Tinospora crispa
extracts on the carrageenin-induced foot pad edema in rats (the 1st report). Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi., 100(4):
339-344.
Tinospora sagittata {R3}
Australian research examined the antiinflammatory activities of ethanol extracts from nine vine plants
used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory conditions (1). They were evaluated against
a panel of key enzymes relating to inflammation. The root and stem from Tinospora sagittata showed
inhibitory activity against at least one of the enzymes.
1.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
122
Tinospora sinensis - Chinese tinospora {R6}
The antiinflammatory activities of ethanol extracts from nine vine plants used in traditional Chinese
medicine to treat inflammatory conditions were examined in Australian research (1). They were
evaluated against a panel of key enzymes relating to inflammation. The root from Tinospora sinensis
showed inhibitory activities against at least one of the enzymes (1). Water and ethanol extracts of the
stems inhibited immunosuppression produced by cyclophosphamide, and ethanol extract also inhibited
cyclophosphamide-induced anaemia (2).
1.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
2.Manjrekar P.N., Jolly C.I. & Narayanan S. (2000) Comparative studies of the immunomodulatory activity of
Tinospora cordifolia and Tinospora sinensis. Fitoterapia., 71(3): 254-257.
Toona sinensis - Chinese mahogany cedar, Chinese cedar, Chinese mahogany or Chinese toon
{R6}
The effect of substances extracted from Toona sinensis leaves with 50% alcohol on lipolysis
(breakdown of fats) was investigated in cultured 3T3-L1 differentiated adipocytes (fat cells) (1).
Glycerol release was increased by the leaf extract in a dose and time dependent manner ie. a positive
lipolytic effect (1). In related work, cellular glucose uptake was also enhanced by the leaf extract (2).
‘Methyl gallate’ has been shown to be an effective antioxidant in a variety of acellular experiments
(3). Methyl gallate extracted from T. sinensis was effective in preventing hydrogen peroxide-mediated
oxidative stress and DNA damage in cultured Madin-Darby canine kidney cells (3). Another study
investigated the effect of crude extract from T. sinensis leaves on the proliferation of A549 human
lung cancer cells and found that cell cycle progression was blocked (4). The extract’s antiproliferative
action was specific for tumour cells.
1.Hsu H.K., Yang Y.C., Hwang J.H. & Hong S.J. (2003) Effects of Toona sinensis leaf extract on lipolysis in
differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Kaohsiung J Med Sci., 19(8): 385-390.
2.Yang Y.C., Hsu H.K., Hwang J.H. & Hong S.J. (2003) Enhancement of glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes
by Toona sinensis leaf extract. Kaohsiung J Med Sci., 19(7): 327-333.
3.Hsieh T.J., Liu T.Z., Chia Y.C., Chern C.L., Lu F.J., Chuang M.C., Mau S.Y., Chen S.H., Syu Y.H. & Chen
C.H. (2004) Protective effect of methyl gallate from Toona sinensis (Meliaceae) against hydrogen peroxideinduced oxidative stress and DNA damage in MDCK cells. Food Chem Toxicol., 42(5): 843-850.
4.Chang H.C., Hung W.C., Huang M.S. & Hsu H.K. (2002) Extract from the leaves of Toona sinensis Roemor
exerts potent antiproliferative effect on human lung cancer cells. Am J Chin Med., 30(2-3): 307-314.
Torreya grandis (FEI ZI) torreya, Chinese torreya, grand torreya or Chinese nutmeg-yew {R9}
The preventive effect of oil from Torreya grandis seed on experimental atherosclerosis in rats was
investigated and found to reduce levels of serum total cholesterol, triglyceride and the atherosclerosic
index (1). Levels of serum high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol were increased (1).
1.Chen Z., Chen Z., Hou L., Xu Z. & Zheng H. (2000) The preventive effect of the oil from the seed of Torreya
grandis cv. merrillii on experimental atherosclerosis in rats. Zhong Yao Cai., 23(9): 551-553.
Trachelospermum jasminoides (LUO SHI TENG) star jasmine {R6}
One traditional use of this herb has been for rheumatoid arthritis, especially with muscle contracture
(1). Recent research in Australia investigated the antiinflammatory activities of ethanol extracts from
the stem of this plant against a panel of key enzymes relating to inflammation (2). Trachelospermum
jasminoides showed potent inhibitory activity against two enzymes.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Li R.W., David Lin G., Myers S.P. & Leach D.N. (2003) Anti-inflammatory activity of Chinese medicinal vine
plants. J Ethnopharmacol., 85(1): 61-67.
Trichosanthes kirilowii (TIAN HUA FEN or GUA LOU) Chinese snake gourd or Chinese
cucumber {R30}
‘Trichosanthin’, a ribosome-inactivating protein extracted from the root tuber of Chinese medicinal
herb Trichosanthes kirilowii, has multiple pharmacological properties including abortifacient and
antitumour. Recently, trichosanthin has been found to induce apoptosis, enhance the action of
chemokines and inhibit human immunodeficiency virus-1 integrase (1). Other compounds from this
plant have also been effective in clinical treatment of human immunodeficiency virus infection (2,3).
123
‘Bryonolic acid’ from T. kirilowii was observed to induce programmed cell death and therefore arrest
proliferation of cancerous cells (4). Antitumour activity has been demonstrated in animal trials in vitro
(5) and in vivo (6), and against human cancer cell-lines (7).
Another study was carried out to elucidate the antiinflammatory effect of 50% ethanol extract obtained
from the fruit (8). Antiinflammatory activity was investigated on acetic acid-induced vascular
permeability in mice, carrageenan-induced oedema and cotton pellet-induced granuloma formation in
rats, as well as writhing symptoms in mice. The whole fruit and seed extractions showed
antiinflammatory activity and analgesic activity (8).
‘SKI 306X’, a purified extract from a mixture of three oriental herbal medicines including T. kirilowii,
has been widely used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as lymphadenitis and arthritis in
East Asia. A double-blind, controlled study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SKI
306X with placebo in 96 patients with classical osteoarthritis of the knee (9). SKI 306X demonstrated
its clinical efficacy, as assessed by 100 mm visual analogue scale, Lequesne index and patient and
investigator opinions of the therapeutic effect compared with placebo (P<0.01). No significant adverse
events were observed in patients treated with SKI 306X. The study concluded that SKI 306X provided
clinical efficacy in patients with osteoarthritis (9).
In related work, the protective effects of SKI 306X on articular cartilage was examined and compared
with other osteoarthritis drugs using in vitro and in vivo rabbit models (10). Results indicated that SKI
306X inhibited proteoglycan degradation in cartilage explant culture, and its prophylactic
administration significantly protected the knee joint of rabbit from osteoarthritis-like change in
collagenase-induced experimental osteoarthritis model. This strongly suggests that SKI 306X can be a
good osteoarthritis agent with some cartilage protection activity (10). T. kirilowii extracts are also used
in angina pectoris with an effective rate of 78.9% depending upon the length of drug administration
(11).
This plant has been identified as one of eight Chinese medicinal plants that have potential for
production in the USA (12). Also, previously identified as a potential new crop for Australia (13). T.
kirilowii (family Curcurbitaceae) is a perennial climber growing to 6 m at a fast rate. It is frost tender
and should not be grown in the shade. The root is harvested in late autumn and male plants are
favoured for root production. T. kirilowii prefers a rich well-drained, sandy-loam soil and plenty of
moisture in the growing season. Plants may be trained on a trellis once vines reach 1 m in length.
Spacing of plants should be 90 cm within rows. Traditional administration: 10 to 15 g of the dried root
decocted with water for an oral dose or used in pills or powder (14).
1.Shaw P.C., Lee K.M. & Wong K.B. (2005) Recent advances in trichosanthin, a ribosome-inactivating protein
with multiple pharmacological properties. Toxicon., 45(6): 683-689.
2.Zheng Y.T., Ben K.L. & Jin S.W. (2000) Anti-HIV-1 activity of trichobitacin, a novel ribosome-inactivating
protein. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 21(2): 179-182.
3.Zhao J., Ben L.H., Wu Y.L., Hu W., Ling K., Xin S.M., Nie H.L., Ma L. & Pei G. (1999) Anti-HIV agent
trichosanthin enhances the capabilities of chemokines to stimulate chemotaxis and G protein activation, and this
is mediated through interaction of trichosanthin and chemokine receptors. J Exp Med., 190(1): 101-111.
4.Thatte U., Bagadey S. & Dahanukar S. (2000) Modulation of programmed cell death by medicinal plants. Cell
Mol Biol., 46(1): 199-214.
5.Takemoto D.J. (1998) Effect of trichosanthin an anti-leukemia protein on normal mouse spleen cells.
Anticancer Res., 18(1A): 357-361.
6.Yasukawa K., Akihisa T., Tamura T. & Takido M. (1994) Inhibitory effect of karounidiol on 12-Otetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced tumor promotion. Biol Pharm Bull., 17(3): 460-462.
7.Akihisa T., Tokuda H., Ichiishi E., Mukainaka T., Toriumi M., Ukiya M., Yasukawa K. & Nishino H. (2001)
Anti-tumor promoting effects of multiflorane-type triterpenoids and cytotoxic activity of karounidiol against
human cancer cell lines. Cancer Lett., 173(1): 9-14.
8.Ozaki Y., Xing L. & Satake M. (1996) Antiinflammatory effect of Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim, and its
effective parts. Biol Pharm Bull., 19(8): 1046-1048.
9.Jung Y.B., Roh K.J., Jung J.A., Jung K., Yoo H., Cho Y.B., Kwak W.J., Kim D.K., Kim K.H. & Han C.K.
(2001) Effect of SKI 306X, a new herbal anti-arthritic agent, in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a doubleblind placebo controlled study. Am J Chin Med., 29(3-4): 485-491.
10.Choi J.H., Choi J.H., Kim D.Y., Yoon J.H., Youn H.Y., Yi J.B., Rhee H.I., Ryu K.H., Jung K., Han C.K.,
Kwak W.J. & Cho Y.B. (2002) Effects of SKI 306X, a new herbal agent, on proteoglycan degradation in
cartilage explant culture and collagenase-induced rabbit osteoarthritis model. Osteoarthritis Cartilage, 10(6):
471-478.
124
11.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
12.Craker L.E. & Giblette J. (2002). Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production. pp. 491496. In, Janick J. & Whipkey A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS Press, Alexandria, VA.
13.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
14.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
Trigonella foenum-graecum (HU LU BA) fenugreek or Greek hay {R14}
Current commercial crop in Australia (1). Although its use as a medicinal plant largely originated in
the Mediterranean region, this species has a long history of use in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine
(2). Hydrolysed saponins in fenugreek seeds are partly responsible for the hypocholesterolaemic
effects of this plant (3). Animal and human trials suggest possible hypoglycaemic and
antihyperlipidaemic properties of orally ingested fenugreek seed powder (3,4). The seeds of
debitterised fenugreek seed powder may be effective in improving glucose tolerance (supported from
results of several human trials) and improving lipid profiles (3). In an experimental double-blind study
with human diabetic type I patients, food intakes with or without defatted fenugreek seed powder were
incorporated into the diet (5). The fenugreek diet significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and
improved the glucose tolerance test. Fenugreek diet also reduced serum total cholesterol, low-density
lipoprotein and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides (5).
1.Jongebloed M. (1998) Coriander & fenugreek, pp. 467-471. In, Hyde K.W. (Ed.), ‘The New Rural Industries- a
Handbook for Farmers and Investors’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra,
570 pp.
2.Basch E., Ulbricht C., Kuo G., Szapary P. & Smith M. (2003) Therapeutic applications of fenugreek. Altern
Med Rev., 8(1): 20-27.
3.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
4.Pinn G. (2005) Herbal medicine in endocrinology and metabolic disease, pp. 383-398. In, Yaniv Z. & Bachrach
U. (Eds.) ‘Handbook of medicinal plants’. Pub.- Food Products Press-Haworth Press, 500 pp.
5.Sharma R.D., Raghuram T.C. & Rao N.S. (1990) Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipids
in type I diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr., 44(4): 301-306.
Tripterygium regelii {R3}
Tripterygium species are used in Chinese medicine for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory
diseases. ‘Regelin’, ‘regelinol’ and an oleanene-type triterpenoid ‘wilforlide A’, isolated from
Tripterygium regelii roots, showed antitumour activity in a screening test (1). However, to date other
species have been better investigated for antitumour effects.
1.Hori H., Pang G.M., Harimaya K., Iitaka Y. & Inayama S. (1987) Isolation and structure of regelin and
regelinol, new antitumor ursene-type triterpenoids from Tripterygium regelii. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 35(5):
2125-2128.
Tripterygium wilfordii (LEI GONG TENG) thunder god vine {19}
Preparations of this species have traditionally been used in China to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Administration may have potent immunosuppressive and antiinflammatory effects based on in vitro
and human patient studies (1,2,3,4,5,6). Of 132 patients with severe joint pain before therapy, 124 said
the pain was reduced or gone following treatment with the glycoside extract of Tripterygium wilfordii
(7). In another study of 95 human patients, relief from pain was accomplished in 98% of cases and
some reduction in joint swelling and improved joint function was noted in 87% (7).
An up-to-date systematic review of randomised clinical trials of T. wilfordii for treatment of
rheumatoid arthritis symptoms found two reports indicating beneficial effects (8). However, the
reviewers suggested that T. wilfordii is associated with serious adverse events which make the riskbenefit analysis for this herb unfavourable. They concluded that its use cannot be recommended (8).
Based on animal and in vitro experimental studies, various biochemical components from T. wilfordii
may have anticancer effects (1,9,10). Trials with animals showed that ‘triptolide A’ is a major active
principle with ability to inhibit mouse L-615 leukaemia cells and prolong the survival time (11).
However, triptolide A is a toxic agent that can damage the cardiovascular system and the central
nervous system (11).
Recognised as a potential new crop for Australia (12).
125
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Ho L.J., Chang D.M., Chang M.L., Kuo S.Y. & Lai JH. (1999) Mechanism of immunosuppression of the
antirheumatic herb TWHf in human T cells. J Rheumatol., 26(1): 14-24.
3.Tao X., Schulze-Koops H., Ma L., Cai J., Mao Y. & Lipsky P.E. (1998) Effects of Tripterygium wilfordii hook
F extracts on induction of cyclooxygenase 2 activity and prostaglandin E2 production. Arthritis Rheum., 41(1):
130-138.
4.Chang D.M., Chang W.Y., Kuo S.Y. & Chang M.L. (1997) The effects of traditional antirheumatic herbal
medicines on immune response cells. J Rheumatol., 24(3): 436-441.
5.Tao X.L., Sun Y., Dong Y., Xiao Y.L., Hu D.W., Shi Y.P., Zhu Q.L., Dai H. & Zhang N.Z. (1989) A
prospective, controlled, double-blind, cross-over study of Tripterygium wilfordii hook F in treatment of
rheumatoid arthritis. Chin Med J., 102(5): 327-332.
6.Yu D.Y. (1983) Clinical observation of 144 cases of rheumatoid arthritis treated with glycoside of Radix
Tripterygium wilfordii. J Tradit Chin Med., 3(2): 125-129.
7.Deyong Y. (1981) Tripterygium wilfordii hook F in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Chin Med
J., 7: 405-412.
8.Canter P.H., Lee H.S. & Ernst E. (2006) A systematic review of randomised clinical trials of Tripterygium
wilfordii for rheumatoid arthritis. Phytomedicine, 13(5): 371-377.
9.Ushiro S., Ono M., Nakayama J., Fujiwara T., Komatsu Y., Sugimachi K. & Kuwano M. (1997) New
nortriterpenoid isolated from anti-rheumatoid arthritic plant, Tripterygium wilfordii, modulates tumor growth and
neovascularization. Int J Cancer, 72(4): 657-663.
10.Ujita K., Takaishi Y., Tokuda H., Nishino H., Iwashima A. & Fujita T. (1993) Inhibitory effects of triptogelin
A-1 on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13- acetate-induced skin tumor promotion. Cancer Lett., 68(2-3): 129-133.
11.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
12.Fletcher R. (1997) Listing of Potential New Crops for Australia, ISBN 0 86776 734 0, Second Edition, June
1997, 553 pp. Or, http://www.newcrops.uq.edu.au/listing/listingindexc.htm
Tylophora indica [India- ANTHRAPACHAKA] Indian ipecac {R27}
The leaves of this species have been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine for asthma and other
respiratory disorders (1,2). In one experimental, double-blind, crossover study of 103 human patients,
those receiving the dry alcoholic extract of Tylophora indica demonstrated significant improvement in
asthma symptoms compared to a placebo group (3). T. indica also had a more gradual and longer
lasting effect than a standard antiasthmatic drug (4). However, despite the positive results from these
earlier clinical trials, supportive anecdotal evidence and widespread use, a review of herbal medicines
for asthma has raised doubts (5). The authors claim that there is no definitive evidence for efficacy of
any herbal preparations (including T. indica), and suggest that considering the popularity of herbal
medicine with asthma patients, there is an urgent need for stringently designed clinically relevant,
randomised trials for evaluating herbal preparations used in asthma treatment (5).
Extracts from ipecac are potent agents for scavenging of nitric oxide and could be used in the
regulation of pathological conditions caused by excessive generation of nitric oxide and its oxidation
products (6).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
3.Shivpuri D.N., Singhal S.C. & Parkash D. (1972) Treatment of asthma with an alcoholic extract of Tylophora
indica: a cross-over, double-blind study. Ann Allergy, 30(7): 407-412.
4.Thiruvengadam K.V., Haranath K., Sudarsan S., Sekar T.S., Rajagopal K.R., Zacharian M.G. & Devarajan
T.V.
(1978) Tylophora indica in bronchial asthma (a controlled comparison with a standard anti-asthmatic drug). J
Indian Med Assoc., 71(7): 172-176.
5.Huntley A. & Ernst E. (2000) Herbal medicines for asthma: a systematic review. Thorax., 55(11): 925-929.
6.Jagetia G.C. & Baliga M.S. (2004) The evaluation of nitric oxide scavenging activity of certain Indian
medicinal plants in vitro: a preliminary study. J Med Food, 7(3): 343-348.
Typha angustata (PU HUANG) {R4}
Traditionally Typha species have been used in cardiac treatment and Typha angustata has received
some attention in this area (1). The effective components have been identified as flavonoids (2).
1.Huang S.Y. & Wang Y.J. (1985) Effect of Typha angustata on acute experimental myocardial infarction in
rabbits. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi., 5(5): 261, 297-298.
2.Gao G., Liao M. & Feng Y. (1998) Determination of flavonoids and quality evaluation of Chinese traditional
drug "puhuang". Yao Xue Xue Bao., 33(4): 300-303.
126
Typha angustifolia (PU HUANG) cattail, lesser reed-mace, nail-rod, narrow-leaf cattail or small
reed-mace {R8}
Traditionally for promoting circulation of the blood and relief of cardiac pain (1). The effective
components have been identified as flavonoids (2,3). Extracts of Typha angustifolia lowered serum
cholesterol levels in artherosclerotic rabbits (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Gao G., Liao M. & Feng Y. (1998) Determination of flavonoids and quality evaluation of Chinese traditional
drug "puhuang". Yao Xue Xue Bao., 33(4): 300-303.
3.Xi X.R. & Li S.X. (2000) Analysis on contents of flavonoids and polysaccharides in pollen of Typha
angustifolia L. and its different processed products. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 25(1): 25-28.
4.Tao B., Li X. & Hei L.J. (2004) The influence of Typha angustifolia on vascular endothelium cell injury of
arherosclerotic rabbits. Chin J Int Med on Cardio-Cerebrovascular disease, 4: 17-19.
Typha orientalis (PU HUANG) cat tail {R3}
Traditionally for promoting circulation of the blood and relief of cardiac pain (1). Water extract of this
species injected into rats prevented ventricular fibrillation, sudden death caused by isoproterenol, and
arrhythmia induced by infusion of BaCl2 (2). Used today in China to lower plasma cholesterol, lower
peripheral blood pressure and to treat angina pectoris (3). Naturalised in SW Australia (4) and grows
widely there but efficacy literature is lacking.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Zheng R.X., Fang S.M., Li Z.M. & Zhang X.M. (1993) Prevention of arrhythmia in rats by puhuang.
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 18(2): 108-110, 127.
3.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
4.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Typhonium giganteum (BAI FU ZI) giant typhonium {R7}
The response of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to extracts of this plant has received limited attention
(1). Insufficient evidence to recommend use.
1.Wang S.Q., Ni H., Cheng H., Wang G.L., Wang T.S. & Chen L. (2004) Detection of differentially expressed
genes in hepatocellular carcinoma cells SMMC-7721 treated with Typhonium giganteum extract by mRNA
differential display. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 29(10): 974-977.
Uncaria rhynchophylla (GOU TENG) {R19}
Traditionally used for treatment of convulsions, epilepsy and hypertension. The pharmacological
actions of the alkaloids, ‘rhynchophylline’ and ‘isorhynchophylline’ extracted from Uncaria
rhynchophylla have been reviewed (1). These alkaloids mainly act on the cardiovascular system and
central nervous system inducing hypotension, brachycardia, antiarrhythmia and protection against
cerebral ischaemia.
Gou teng’s antihypertensive, vasodilator action has been supported by in vitro findings using rat blood
vessels (2,3). Results from other trials suggest that U. rhynchophylla could potentially be used to
accelerate vascular wound healing or to promote the growth of collateral blood vessel in ischaemic
tissues (4).
In a study using rats, the anticonvulsant effect of U. rhynchophylla was attributed to its suppressive
effect on lipid peroxidation in the brain (5). A further rat study evaluated the neuroprotective effects of
U. rhynchophylla after transient global ischaemia using 4-vessel occlusion (6). Methanol extract
administered intraperitoneally significantly protected hippocampal CA1 neurons against transient
forebrain ischaemia. Measurement of neuronal cell density in the CA1 region at seven days after
ischaemia by Nissl staining revealed more than 70% protection in U. rhynchophylla treated rats
compared to saline-treated animals (6). Pretreatment with U. rhynchopylla extract also reduced the
degree of neuronal damage and cell death induced by N-methyl-D-aspartate exposure in cultured rat
hippocampal slices (7,8).
Attenuation of monoamine oxidase B activity may provide protection against oxidative
neurodegeneration. For this reason, inhibition of monoamine oxidase B activity is used as part of the
treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's patients. In latest research, compounds (+)-catechin and (-)epicatechin from U. rhynchophylla inhibited monoamine oxidase B, as measured by an assay of rat
127
brain (9). This suggests that these two compounds might be able to protect against neurodegeneration
in vitro, and the authors suggest that the molecular mechanism deserves further study. Potential for
Australian production has been recognised (10).
1.Shi J.S., Yu J.X., Chen X.P. & Xu R.X. (2003) Pharmacological actions of Uncaria alkaloids, rhynchophylline
and isorhynchophylline. Acta Pharmacol Sin., 24(2): 97-101.
2.Kuramochi T., Chu J. & Suga T. (1994) Gou-teng (from Uncaria rhynchophylla Miquel)-induced endotheliumdependent and -independent relaxations in the isolated rat aorta. Life Sci., 54(26): 2061-2069.
3.Zhang W.B., Chen C.X., Sim S.M. & Kwan C.Y. (2004) In vitro vasodilator mechanisms of the indole
alkaloids rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline, isolated from the hook of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miquel).
Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol., 369(2): 232-238.
4.Choi D.Y., Huh J.E., Lee J.D., Cho E.M., Baek Y.H., Yang H.R., Cho Y.J., Kim K.I., Kim D.Y. & Park D.S.
(2005) Uncaria rhynchophylla induces angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(12): 2248-2252.
5.Hsieh C.L., Chen M.F., Li T.C., Li S.C., Tang N.Y., Hsieh C.T., Pon C.Z. & Lin J.G. (1999) Anticonvulsant
effect of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq) Jack. in rats with kainic acid-induced epileptic seizure. Am J Chin Med.,
27(2): 257-264.
6.Suk K., Kim S.Y., Leem K., Kim Y.O., Park S.Y., Hur J., Baek J., Lee K.J., Zheng H.Z. & Kim H. (2002)
Neuroprotection by methanol extract of Uncaria rhynchophylla against global cerebral ischemia in rats. Life Sci.,
70(21): 2467-2480.
7.Lee J., Son D., Lee P., Kim D.K., Shin M.C., Jang M.H., Kim C.J., Kim Y.S., Kim S.Y. & Kim H. (2003)
Protective effect of methanol extract of Uncaria rhynchophylla against excitotoxicity induced by N-methyl-Daspartate in rat hippocampus. J Pharmacol Sci., 92(1): 70-73.
8.Lee J., Son D., Lee P., Kim S.Y., Kim H., Kim C.J. & Lim E. (2003) Alkaloid fraction of Uncaria
rhynchophylla protects against N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced apoptosis in rat hippocampal slices. Neurosci Lett.,
348(1): 51-55.
9.Hou W.C., Lin R.D., Chen C.T. & Lee M.H. (2005) Monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibition by active
principles from Uncaria rhynchophylla. J Ethnopharmacol., 100(1-2): 216-220.
10.Jane Parker, Research Manager for the Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association - pers.comm.
Uncaria sinensis (GOU TENG) {R10}
The phenolic compounds epicatechin, catechin, procyanidin B-1, procyanidin B-2, hyperin and caffeic
acid from the hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis were studied for their protective effects against
glutamate-induced neuronal death in cultured rat cerebellar granule cells (1). Cell viability evaluated
by MTT assay was significantly increased by application of epicatechin, catechin, procyanidin B-1 and
procyanidin B-2 compared with exposure to glutamate only. These compounds appear to be the active
components of U. sinensis and protect against glutamate-induced neuronal death by inhibition of
calcium influx (1).
Uncaria sinensis is the main plant composing the medicine ‘Choto-san’ (or ‘Diao-teng-san’). Two
different multicenter studies on the efficacy of Choto-san on patients with vascular dementia, one a
well-controlled but non-double blind (60 patients), the other a double-blind controlled study (139
patients), were performed (2). In both the well-controlled study and the double-blind study, Choto-san
was superior in global improvement rating, utility rating and improvement of subjective symptoms,
psychiatric symptoms and disturbance in daily living activities (2). These results suggest that Chotosan is effective in the treatment of vascular dementia.
In additional work to clarify effects in vivo, oral administration of Choto-san extract or U. sinensis
extract was investigated in gerbils (3). Results suggested that the oral administration of both extract
types provided a protective effect against transient ischaemia-induced delayed neuronal death by
reducing oxidative damage to neurons. The ethanol extract from the hooks and stems of U. sinensis
also exhibited significant inhibitory activity on oxidative stress and age-dependent shortening of
telomeric DNA length in vitro (4).
1.Shimada Y., Goto H., Kogure T., Shibahara N., Sakakibara I., Sasaki H. & Terasawa K. (2001) Protective
effect of phenolic compounds isolated from the hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis on glutamate-induced
neuronal death. Am J Chin Med., 29(1): 173-180.
2.Itoh T., Shimada Y. & Terasawa K. (1999) Efficacy of Choto-san on vascular dementia and the protective
effect of the hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis on glutamate-induced neuronal death. Mech Ageing Dev.,
111(2-3): 155-173.
3.Yokoyama K., Shimada Y., Hori E., Sekiya N., Goto H., Sakakibara I., Nishijo H. & Terasawa K. (2004)
Protective effects of Choto-san and hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis against delayed neuronal death after
transient forebrain ischemia in gerbil. Phytomedicine, 11(6): 478-489.
4.Na M., Kim Y.H., Min B.S., Bae K., Kamiryo Y., Senoo Y., Yokoo S., Miwa N., Song K.S. & Seong Y.H.
2004) Cytoprotective effect on oxidative stress and inhibitory effect on cellular aging of Uncaria sinensis Havil.
J Ethnopharmacol., 95(2-3): 127-132.
128
Vigna angularis (CHI XIAO DOU) adzuki bean or red bean {R12}
Rats fed with adzuki starch experienced a lowering of serum cholesterol (1,2).
1.Han K.H., Fukushima M., Shimizu K., Kojima M., Ohba K., Tanaka A., Shimada K., Sekikawa M. & Nakano
M. (2003) Resistant starches of beans reduce the serum cholesterol concentration in rats. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol.
(Tokyo), 49(4): 281-286.
2.Han K.H., Fukushima M., Kato T., Kojima M., Ohba K., Shimada K., Sekikawa M. & Nakano M. (2003)
Enzyme-resistant fractions of beans lowered serum cholesterol and increased sterol excretions and hepatic
mRNA levels in rats. Lipids, 38(9): 919-924.
Vincetoxicum atratum (BAI WEI) swallowwort {R7}
Sometimes used in the treatment of asthma but has been shown to only have some expectorant effect
without antitussive or antiasthmatic actions (1). More recent work has revealed pregnane glycosides,
including ‘cynatroside B’, in the roots that significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity (2).
Cynatroside B significantly ameliorated memory impairments induced in mice by scopolamine, and it
is suggested that the antiacetylcholinesterase and antiamnesic activities of cynatroside B may
ultimately hold significant therapeutic value in alleviating certain memory impairments observed in
Alzheimer's disease (2).
1.Liang A., Xue B., Yang Q., Li Z., Wang J. & Fu M. (1996) Pharmacological comparative study on baiqian and
baiwei. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 21(10): 622-625
2.Lee K.Y., Yoon J.S., Kim E.S., Kang S.Y. & Kim Y.C. (2005) Anti-acetylcholinesterase and anti-amnesic
activities of a pregnane glycoside, cynatroside B, from Cynanchum atratum. Planta Med., 71(1): 7-11.
Vincetoxicum pycnostelma (XU CHANG QING) paniculate swallowwort {R10}
Traditionally for pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis (1). Contains ‘paeonol’, an important active
component present in traditional Chinese medicines (2). In recent years Vincetoxicum pycnostelma has
been used to alleviate cancer pain and post-operative pain (1) but this usage is not well documented in
scientific/medical literature. A phenanthroindolizidine alkaloid derived from the root was highly active
in growth inhibition of human cancer cells in culture (3).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Deng C., Yao N., Wang B. & Zhang X. (2006) Development of microwave-assisted extraction followed by
headspace single-drop microextraction for fast determination of paeonol in traditional Chinese medicines. J
Chromatogr A., 1103(1): 15-21.
3.Lee S.K., Nam K.A. & Heo Y.H. (2003) Cytotoxic activity and G2/M cell cycle arrest mediated by antofine, a
phenanthroindolizidine alkaloid isolated from Cynanchum paniculatum. Planta Med., 69(1): 21-25.
Vincetoxicum stauntonii (BAI QIAN) willowleaf swallowwort {R7}
Used traditionally with other herbs for treating asthma (1). Decoctions of Vincetoxicum stauntonii
have been show to have antiasthmatic and antiinflammatory effects (2). Volatile oil from the roots has
exhibited in vitro activity against influenza virus, and in vivo experiments showed that it prevented
influenza virus-induced deaths in a dose-dependent manner (3). ‘Stauntonine’ from the roots showed
dose-dependent relaxation of aortic rings with endothelium contracted by phenylepherine or KCl (4).
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Liang A., Xue B., Yang Q., Li Z., Wang J. & Fu M. (1996) Pharmacological comparative study on baiqian and
baiwei. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi., 21(10): 622-625
3.Zai Chang Y., Bo Chu W., Xiao Sheng Y. & Qiang W. (2005) Chemical composition of the volatile oil from
Cynanchum stauntonii and its activities of anti-influenza virus. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces., 43(3-4): 198-202.
4.Wang P., Qin H.L., Zhang L., Li Z.H., Wang Y.H. & Zhu H.B. (2004) Steroids from the roots of Cynanchum
stauntonii. Planta Med., 70(11): 1075-1079.
Viola prionantha (ZI HUA DI DING) violet herb {R2}
Petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts showed activity against Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas
syringae using a bioautographic assay (1).
1.Xie C., Kokubun T., Houghton P.J. & Simmonds M.S. (2004) Antibacterial activity of the Chinese traditional
medicine, Zi Hua Di Ding. Phytother Res., 18(6): 497-500.
Viola yedoensis - Tokyo violet {R7}
Ethyl acetate and petroleum ether extracts showed activity against Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas
syringae using a bioautographic assay (1). Extracts of Viola yedoensis also demonstrated high
inhibitory activity toward human immunodeficiency virus in vitro (2,3). At a subtoxic concentration,
growth of human immunodeficiency virus was typically completely stopped (3).
129
1.Xie C., Kokubun T., Houghton P.J. & Simmonds M.S. (2004) Antibacterial activity of the Chinese traditional
medicine, Zi Hua Di Ding. Phytother Res., 18(6): 497-500.
2.Ngan F., Chang R.S., Tabba H.D. & Smith K.M. (1988) Isolation, purification and partial characterization of an
active anti-HIV compound from the Chinese medicinal herb Viola yedoensis. Antiviral Res., 10(1-3): 107-116.
3.Chang R.S. & Yeung H.W. (1988) Inhibition of growth of human immunodeficiency virus in vitro by crude
extracts of Chinese medicinal herbs. Antiviral Res., 9(3): 163-175.
Viscum coloratum (HU JI SHANG) Korean mistletoe {R13}
Traditionally used as an antihypertensive agent (1) but has also been employed for several decades as
an anticancer immunomodulating agent in clinical fields (2). In the past 10 years, Korean mistletoe has
been the subject of many trials investigating its anticancer properties. Mistletoe lectin has been
reported to induce apoptosis in different cancer cell-lines and to show antitumour activity against a
variety of tumours in animal models (3). ‘Agglutinin’, isolated from Korean mistletoe, is a strong
inducer of apoptosis in a variety of tumour cells in culture (4). The underlying molecular mechanisms
responsible continue to be investigated. Despite an apparent history of clinical use and excellent
results from cell-line and animal work, reports on human clinical trials with this species could not be
retrieved from the scientific literature.
1.Kee Chang Huang (1992) The pharmacology of Chinese herbs. CRC publishers, 388 pp.
2.Park R., Kim M.S., So H.S., Jung B.H., Moon S.R., Chung S.Y., Ko C.B., Kim B.R. & Chung H.T. (2000)
Activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) in mistletoe lectin II-induced apoptosis of human myeloleukemic
U937 cells. Biochem Pharmacol., 60(11): 1685-1691.
3.Choi S.H., Lyu S.Y. & Park W.B. (2004) Mistletoe lectin induces apoptosis and telomerase inhibition in human
A253 cancer cells through dephosphorylation of Akt. Arch Pharm Res., 27(1): 68-76.
4.Kim W.H., Park W.B., Gao B. & Jung M.H. (2004) Critical role of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial
membrane potential in Korean mistletoe lectin-induced apoptosis in human hepatocarcinoma cells. Mol
Pharmacol., 66(6): 1383-1396.
Vitex trifolia (MAN JING ZI) [Myanmar- KYAUNG-BAN] Indian privet or Indian three-leaf
vitex {R17}
Native to tropical Asia, temperate Asia, Australia and Polynesia; cultivated and naturalised elsewhere
(1). Shrub to 2.5 m, the essential oil contains several terpenes (2). Used in folk medicine to treat
rheumatic arthralgia (3), cancer (4) and asthma (5). In an examination of 12 plants, Vitex trifolia was
one of five containing active compounds that inhibited mast-cell degranulation, suggesting a role in
new drugs for treating asthma and/or allergic disease (5). Most recent work on V. trifolia has focussed
on anticancer properties. Hexanic and dichloromethanic extracts, when prepared from stems and
foliage, have proved to be very toxic against several cancer cell-lines in culture (6). Recent in vitro
trials have identified some of the V. trifolia anticancer components that exert their antiproliferative
effect through inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the cell cycle (4,7). ‘Vitexicarpin’, a flavonoid from
this privet, induced apoptosis in K562 cells via the mitochondria-controlled apoptotic pathway (8). V.
trifolia is common in coastal areas of Queensland and of the Northern Territory (9).
1.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
2.Samy J., Sugumaran M. & Lee K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times Editions-Marshall
Cavendish, 244 pp.
3.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
4.Li W.X., Cui C.B., Cai B. & Yao X.S. (2005) Labdane-type diterpenes as new cell cycle inhibitors and
apoptosis inducers from Vitex trifolia L. J Asian Nat Prod Res., 7(2): 95-105.
5.Ikawati Z., Wahyuono S. & Maeyama K. (2001) Screening of several Indonesian medicinal plants for their
inhibitory effect on histamine release from RBL-2H3 cells. J Ethnopharmacol., 75(2-3): 249-256.
6.Hernandez M.M., Heraso C., Villarreal M.L., Vargas-Arispuro I. & Aranda E. (1999) Biological activities of
crude plant extracts from Vitex trifolia L. (Verbenaceae). J Ethnopharmacol., 67(1): 37-44.
7.Li W.X., Cui C.B., Cai B., Wang H.Y. & Yao X.S. (2005) Flavonoids from Vitex trifolia L. inhibit cell cycle
progression at G2/M phase and induce apoptosis in mammalian cancer cells. J Asian Nat Prod Res., 7(4): 615626.
8.Wang H.Y., Cai B., Cui C.B., Zhang D.Y. & Yang B.F. (2005) Vitexicarpin, a flavonoid from Vitex trifolia L.,
induces apoptosis in K562 cells via mitochondria-controlled apoptotic pathway. Yao Xue Xue Bao., 40(1): 27-31.
9.Lassak E. & McCarthy T. (2001) Australian Medicinal Plants. Pub.- Reed New Holland, JB Books, 240 pp.
130
Xanthium sibiricum (CANG ER CAO or CANG ER XI) xanthium or Siberian cocklebur {R7}
Traditionally used to alleviate arthritic pain (1). A sesquiterpene lactone, or ‘xanthatin’, isolated from
leaves of this herb displayed outstandingly potent activity against Staphylococcus aureus strains (2).
Other bacteria, eg. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas
aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi, were also susceptible at the concentrations tested but the compound
had no inhibitory effect on some other bacteria, including Escherichia coli.
1.Jing-Nuan Wu (2005) An illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. Oxford University Press, 706 pp.
2.Sato Y., Oketani H., Yamada T., Singyouchi K., Ohtsubo T., Kihara M., Shibata H. & Higuti T. (1997)
A xanthanolide with potent antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Pharm
Pharmacol., 49(10): 1042-1044.
Xanthium strumarium (CANG ER ZI) cocklebur or large cocklebur {R14}
Used as an antibacterial, antifungal, antirheumatic and analgesic (1). Some antibacterial properties
have been verified (2) and recent in vitro and rat trials have supported antiinflammatory claims (3).
Two xanthanolide sesquiterpene lactones, isolated from the leaves of Xanthium strumarium
demonstrated significant inhibition on proliferation of cultured human tumour cells (ie. lung, ovary,
melanoma, central nervous system and colon) (4). Another study considered the antihyperglycaemic
effect of ‘caffeic acid’, one of the phenolic compounds contained in the fruit (5). Intravenous injection
of caffeic acid into diabetic rats decreased plasma glucose. Increase of glucose utilisation by caffeic
acid seemed to be the mechanism for lowering of plasma glucose. Possible invasive species, noxious
weed (6).
1.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
2.Mehta P., Chopra S. & Mehta A. (1983) Antimicrobial properties of some plant extracts against bacteria. Folia
Microbiol (Praha)., 28(6): 467-469.
3.Kim I.T., Park Y.M., Won J.H., Jung H.J., Park H.J., Choi J.W. & Lee K.T. (2005) Methanol extract of
Xanthium strumarium L. possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(1):
94-100.
4.Kim Y.S., Kim J.S., Park S.H., Choi S.U., Lee C.O., Kim S.K., Kim Y.K., Kim S.H. & Ryu S.Y. (2003)
Two cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactones from the leaves of Xanthium strumarium and their in vitro inhibitory
activity on farnesyltransferase. Planta Med., 69(4): 375-377.
5.Hsu F.L., Chen Y.C. & Cheng J.T. (2000) Caffeic acid as active principle from the fruit of Xanthium
strumarium to lower plasma glucose in diabetic rats. Planta Med., 66(3): 228-230.
6.USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN)
[Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.
Zanthoxylum bungeanum (HUA JIAO) Sichuan pepper {R10}
This Chinese traditional medication from the dried pericarp of ripe fruit has been used for- epigastric
pain and vomiting; abdominal pain due to intestinal parasitosis; and, eczema (1). In a research study of
68 water and methanol extracts from 34 Chinese herbal drugs which screened for effects on nitric
oxide production, Zanthoxylum bungeanum showed significant inhibition (2).
1.Xiong Q.B. & Shi D.W. (1991) Morphological and histological studies of Chinese traditional drug "hua jiao"
(pericarpium zanthoxyli) and its allied drugs. Yao Xue Xue Bao, 26(12): 938-947.
2.Tezuka Y., Irikawa S., Kaneko T., Banskota A.H., Nagaoka T., Xiong Q., Hase K. & Kadota S. (2001)
Screening of Chinese herbal drug extracts for inhibitory activity on nitric oxide production and identification of
an active compound of Zanthoxylum bungeanum. J Ethnopharmacol., 77(2-3): 209-217.
Zanthoxylum piperitum (CHUAN JIAO or HUA JIAO) Japanese pepper, red pepper or
sansho {R13}
The dried red peppercorns from Zanthoxylum piperitum are a commonly used spice in Asian cooking.
Extracts have exhibited radical-scavenging activity and may be promising agents for scavenging free
radicals and treating diseases associated with excess free radicals (1,2). Latest research on this plant
has revealed that polymeric proanthocyanidins from the fruit peel suppressed the antibiotic resistance
of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (3). Work in Australia determined that an extract of this
pepper selectively inhibited the growth of neurofibromatosis-deficient malignant peripheral nerve
sheath tumour cells, without affecting the growth of normal fibroblasts; and suppressed the growth of
neurofibromatosis-deficient human breast cancer xenograft in mice (4).
1.Cho E.J., Yokozawa T., Rhyu D.Y., Kim S.C., Shibahara N. & Park J.C. (2003) Study on the inhibitory effects
of Korean medicinal plants and their main compounds on the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical.
Phytomedicine, 10(6-7): 544-551.
2.Cho E.J., Yokozawa T., Rhyu D.Y., Kim H.Y., Shibahara N. & Park J.C. (2003) The inhibitory effects of 12
medicinal plants and their component compounds on lipid peroxidation. Am J Chin Med., 31(6): 907-917.
131
3.Hatano T., Kusuda M., Inada K., Ogawa T.O., Shiota S., Tsuchiya T. & Yoshida T. (2005)
Effects of tannins and related polyphenols on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Phytochemistry,
66(17): 2047-2055.
4.Hirokawa Y., Nheu T., Grimm K., Mautner V., Maeda S., Yoshida M., Komiyama K. & Maruta1 H. (2006)
Sichuan Pepper Extracts Block the PAK1/Cyclin D1 Pathway and the Growth of NF1-Deficient Cancer
Xenograft in Mice. Cancer Biol Ther., 5(3): 305-309.
Zanthoxylum schinifolium (HUA JIAO) Sichuan pepper {R7}
In animal experiments extracts from Zanthoxylum schinifolium significantly inhibited tumour
development (1). Extracts have also shown strong inhibition of platelet aggregation in vitro (2,3).
1.Paik S.Y., Koh K.H., Beak S.M., Paek S.H. & Kim J.A. (2005) The essential oils from Zanthoxylum
schinifolium pericarp induce apoptosis of HepG2 human hepatoma cells through increased production of reactive
oxygen species. Biol Pharm Bull., 28(5): 802-807.
2.Tsai I.L., Lin W.Y., Teng C.M., Ishikawa T., Doong S.L., Huang M.W., Chen Y.C. & Chen I.S. (2000)
Coumarins and antiplatelet constituents from the root bark of Zanthoxylum schinifolium. Planta Med., 66(7): 618623.
3.Chen I.S., Lin Y.C., Tsai I.L., Teng C.M., Ko F.N., Ishikawa T. & Ishii H. (1995) Coumarins and anti-platelet
aggregation constituents from Zanthoxylum schinifolium. Phytochemistry, 39(5): 1091-1097.
Zingiber montanum [Myanmar- MEIK-THALIN] Bengal ginger or cassumunar ginger {R7}
Rhizome extracts of this plant have antioxidant properties (1,2). In vitro studies found that
cassumunins A and B from Zingiber montanum gave greater protection to cells suffering from H2O2induced oxidative stress than did curcumin, a recognised natural antioxidant (3). The rhizome also
contains compounds that have shown antiinflammatory activity (4), and rat trials in vivo and in vitro
suggested that the activity of (E)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene was potent in this respect (5).
1.Chirangini P., Sharma G.J. & Sinha S.K. (2004) Sulfur free radical reactivity with curcumin as reference for
evaluating antioxidant properties of medicinal zingiberales. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol., 23(3): 227-236.
2.Nakatani N. (2000) Phenolic antioxidants from herbs and spices. Biofactors, 13(1-4): 141-146.
3.Nagano T., Oyama Y., Kajita N., Chikahisa L., Nakata M., Okazaki E. & Masuda T. (1997)
New curcuminoids isolated from Zingiber cassumunar protect cells suffering from oxidative stress: a flowcytometric study using rat thymocytes and H2O2. Jpn J Pharmacol., 75(4): 363-370.
4.Ozaki Y., Kawahara N. & Harada M. (1991) Anti-inflammatory effect of Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. and its
active principles. Chem Pharm Bull. (Tokyo), 39(9): 2353-2356.
5.Jeenapongsa R., Yoovathaworn K., Sriwatanakul K.M., Pongprayoon U. & Sriwatanakul K. (2003)
Anti-inflammatory activity of (E)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene from Zingiber cassumunar Roxb.
J Ethnopharmacol., 87(2-3): 143-148.
Zingiber officinale (SHENG JIANG - fresh, GAN JIANG - dried) ginger
Current commercial crop in Australia. One of the forty most important herbs in industrialised Western
countries (1). Traditionally used to relax blood vessels (2). There is evidence indicating that ginger can
be effective in preventing motion sickness and nausea in some circumstances (3,4,5).
Research has also suggested that ginger root inhibits production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes,
which are involved in pain and inflammation. It is now known that ginger modulates biochemical
pathways activated in chronic inflammation (6). In an uncontrolled 1992 Danish study, 56 patients
who had either rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or muscular discomfort took powdered ginger (7).
All of those with musculoskeletal pain and three-quarters of those with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid
arthritis reported varying degrees of pain relief and no side-effects. More recent work has shown
benefits in treating osteoarthritis (8,9).
1.Werbach M. & Murray M. (2000) Botanical influences on illness - a sourcebook of clinical research. 2nd
edition, Pub.- Third Line Press Inc. Tarzana California, 624 pp.
2.Ody P. (2001) Secrets of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Pub.- Dorling Kindersley-Ivy Press, 224 pp.
3.Lien H.C., Sun W.M., Chen Y.H., Kim H., Hasler W. & Owyang C. (2003) Effects of ginger on motion
sickness and gastric slow-wave dysrhythmias induced by circular vection. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver
Physiol., 284(3): 481-489.
4.Vutyavanich T., Kraisarin T. & Ruangsri R. (2001) Ginger for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: randomized,
double-masked, placebo-controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol., 97(4): 577-582.
5.Willetts K.E., Ekangaki A. & Eden J.A. (2003) Effect of a ginger extract on pregnancy-induced nausea: a
randomised controlled trial. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol., 43(2): 139-144.
6.Grzanna R., Lindmark L. & Frondoza C.G. (2005) Ginger-an herbal medicinal product with broad antiinflammatory actions. J Med Food., 8(2): 125-132.
7.Srivastava K.C. & Mustafa T. (1992) Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in rheumatism and musculoskeletal disorders.
Med Hypotheses, 39(4): 342-348.
132
8.Altman R.D. & Marcussen K.C. (2001) Effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
Arthritis Rheum., 44(11): 2531-2538.
9.Shen C.L., Hong K.J. & Kim S.W. (2005) Comparative effects of ginger root (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) on the
production of inflammatory mediators in normal and osteoarthrotic sow chondrocytes. J Med Food, 8(2): 149153.
Ziziphus jujuba (DA ZAO or SUAN ZAO REN) Chinese date or Chinese jujube {R12}
Widely used in Chinese traditional medicine for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety, and as a
hypotensive (1). The methanol extract of the seeds prevented N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced rat
neuronal cell damage in vitro (2). In other work, 50 Korean traditional natural plants were screened to
measure the activation effect on choline acetyltransferase and attenuation of scopolamine-induced
amnesia (3). Methanolic extracts from Ziziphus jujuba showed the highest activatory effect (34.1%) on
choline acetyltransferase in vitro. The active component was identified as cis-9-octadecenoamide
(‘oleamide’). Administration of oleamide (0.32%) to mice significantly reversed the scopolamineinduced memory and/or cognitive impairment in the passive avoidance test and Y-maze test (3). These
results suggest that oleamide should be a useful chemo-preventive agent against Alzheimer's disease.
Compounds from the fruits of Z. jujuba also suppressed the antibiotic resistance of methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (4). Potential as a crop for Australia has been previously recognised
(5).
1.Bone K. (2000) Clinical applications of Ayurvedic & Chinese herbs - Monographs for the Western Herbal
Practitioner. Phytotherapy press (Qld., Aust.), 152 pp.
2.Park J.H., Lee H.J., Koh S.B., Ban J.Y. & Seong Y.H. (2004) Protection of NMDA-induced neuronal cell
damage by methanol extract of zizyphi spinosi semen in cultured rat cerebellar granule cells. J Ethnopharmacol.,
95(1): 39-45.
3.Heo H.J., Park Y.J., Suh Y.M., Choi S.J., Kim M.J., Cho H.Y., Chang Y.J., Hong B., Kim H.K., Kim E., Kim
C.J., Kim B.G. & Shin D.H. (2003) Effects of oleamide on choline acetyltransferase and cognitive activities.
Biosci Biotechnol Biochem., 67(6): 1284-1291.
4.Hatano T., Kusuda M., Inada K., Ogawa T.O., Shiota S., Tsuchiya T. & Yoshida T. (2005) Effects of tannins
and related polyphenols on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Phytochemistry, 66(17): 2047-2055.
5.Purbrick P. (2004) Medicinal herbs, pp. 256-264. In, Salvin S., Bourke M. & Byrne T. (Eds.) ‘The New Crop
Industries Handbook’. Pub.- Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Canberra.
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5. Discussion
The study considered around 500 Asian medicinal plant species and directly reviewed and documented
information on over 400 with links to some of Australia’s chronic diseases. Ninety-eight percent of
these were higher plants (ie. angiosperms and gymnosperms). Over 3,500 scientific reference items
were reviewed and over 1,000 of these were directly referenced and documented in species summaries.
It was established that there is a general lack of recent and rigorous human efficacy testing. Conclusive
positive human results from RDBPC trials are only available for a handful of these plants. Less than
20% of the 400+ species considered here had undergone some type of ‘scientific’ evaluation on
humans. This makes it difficult to strongly recommend that growers start producing more types of
these Asian medicinal crops. However, many of these species are being actively researched and future
results from long-term studies could quickly establish medicinal credentials. To date, at least 6% have
yielded phytochemicals used in commercial drugs relating to chronic ailments.
Some clinically important types of information were particularly scarce in the literature, such as results
of negative trials, drug interactions, toxic reactions and effects in special populations. In some cases,
good evidence about short-term side-effects was available from well-controlled human trials.
However, information about the effects of long-term use was often based on case reports rather than
prospective studies; a situation unchanged since 1998 (1).
Table 1. Percentage of reviewed and documented plant species that had undergone some form
of positive scientific evaluation with links to chronic ailments. Includes plants used in Chinese
and non-Chinese Asian medicine.
MEDICAL ACTIVITY
Anticancer
Antiinflammatory
Cardiovascular protective
Antioxidant
Antidiabetic
Hypotensive
Neuroprotective
Antihyperlipidaemia
Antiarthritic (predominantly rheumatoid)
Hepatoprotective
Nitric oxide inhibitor
Antiasthma
AntiHIV*
Antimalaria*
% of reviewed species
41%
22%
20%
12%
11%
10%
9%
7%
5%
3%
3%
3%
3%
2%
Note- These terms were the predominant ones used in pertinent pieces of scientific literature. The interrelationships between
eg. antioxidation and nitric oxide inhibition are recognised; as are the close linkages between eg. antiinflammatory and
antiarthritic actions, and eg. antioxidant and anticancer effects etc.
** HIV and malaria information was noted only when a species had been targeted for Australia’s chronic diseases. A primary
search for these conditions would undoubtedly have yielded more data.
In addition, the efficacy data generated for many species has been based on ‘extracts’ rather than
whole fruit or vegetables. There often remains the question of how much fresh material needs to be
ingested to supply sufficient levels of phytochemical to generate biochemical changes in the human
body. Cooking plant products can also effect the availability of actives in different ways, sometimes
positively and at other times detrimentally. Here the importance of human experimentation is critical
and for the vast majority of species that are not current commercial mainstream crops, these issues
often need resolution. Concentration of bioactive compounds can also vary with growing conditions
and of course genotype/cultivar. Sometimes luxurious and healthy vegetative plant growth is inversely
related to levels of phytochemical content.
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Cardiovascular uses and in particular compounds for hypertension (high blood pressure) have a long
and relatively rigorous history of investigation and plant products have provided benefits. Antiasthma
and antidiabetic activities in plants and their derivatives have also undergone considerable analysis but
with lesser success and there are believed to be only a handful of species that are truly functional in
these respects. Over the past decade there has been considerable interest in the isolation of potent
antioxidant compounds to treat diseases involving oxidative stress (eg. cancer and aspects of
cardiovascular disease). A high proportion of plant extracts exhibit some level of antioxidant activity
and therefore current prospecting aims only to identify extracts with the highest levels of activity.
Marketing a plant product solely on the basis of ‘some’ antioxidant activity may have been commonplace and an adequate description of functionality ten years ago (even five) but current requirements of
botanicals are more stringent. Modern research has a large focus on anticancer properties of plants and
some successes have been obtained. Forty-one percent of the Asian medicinal plant species
documented in this review had been investigated for anticancer effects (Table 1). Given this high level
of activity, if Asian and in particular Chinese medicinal species are to make new impacts on human
health in Australia, there is a strong chance that this will be as anticancer agents.
Garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) are two existing Australian commercial
crops that are important Chinese medicinal plants with strong support from medical efficacy trials.
Other Chinese plants supported by efficacy evaluations are turmeric (Curcuma longa), green tea
(Camellia sinensis), ginseng (Panax ginseng), Astragalus membranaceus and Ginkgo biloba but these
are relatively small, new crops in Australia. However, given their strength of linked evidence-based
data and the considerable recent Australian research investment that most of these plants have
attracted, there are good opportunities to develop these into much more important commercial crops,
either as fresh or value-added products.
Health of the Australian populace could benefit simply through increased consumption of our
existing Asian medicinal plant products without the need to further develop new crops. In Australia,
there is a general awareness of the need to increase dietary fruit and vegetables for health benefits.
However, for maximum benefits it is essential that there is a focus on those types of plant product that
have superior and proven medicinal qualities. All vegetables are not created equal! Many ‘Asian’
products like ginger, turmeric, green tea and ginkgo are not currently large components of Western
diets. They have lower profiles than for example lettuce, zucchini and cauliflower but are often better
supported than our mainstream traditional crops by medical efficacy data for enhancement of human
health. There is a tendency for existing agricultural/horticultural industries to support and justify the
health promoting properties of the plant species that they currently produce commercially. However,
this should not be allowed to mask and prejudice opportunities for niche species that can provide
superior health benefits. There is belief that human health in the West may have suffered in the last
thirty years through a decrease in biodiversity associated with diet.
There are good opportunities to better market some of our existing commercial crops. It is possible to
add value to a crop or product by simply marketing it with a new dimension. Existing crops backed by
human trial evidence could be better marketed with health benefits in mind, eg. fenugreek
(Trigonella foenum-graecum) and shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes). There are many false and
misleading public health claims in the marketplace, so that existing crops with strong causality
evidence deserve promotion and further exploitation, in addition to the introduction of new species and
products. The Australian Medical Association recently suggested that Australians were wasting almost
AU$1.8 billion a year on alternative medicines (such as herbal supplements) and therapies that do not
work (2).
Other Chinese medicinal plants that are smaller Australian commercial crops include - Salvia
miltiorrhiza, Schisandra chinensis and Scutellaria baicalensis. Centella asiatica and Houttuynia
cordata are commoner commercial crops in Australia but are also species that are used medicinally in
Asia. Their associated health data is building but needs additional support. However, in those instances
where efficacy data is not complete (eg. animal trials conducted but not human), if the plant and its
derivatives are safe to consume, then incorporation into the diet may well be beneficial.
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Young leaves of Centella asiatica can be consumed uncooked and incorporated into salads, while the
older leaves are suitable for stirfries. Centella asiatica is also an Australian native species (see page
141). Houttuynia cordata is now commonly produced in Australia by growers with a Vietnamese
background, and the leaves and smaller stems are used uncooked for salads and food garnishes. Fresh
or pickled strips of ginger rhizome could be included in stirfry mixes.
Other Asian species currently produced commercially in Australia are safe to consume and have
medicinal ‘potential’ - lotus, peach, litchi, la lot (Piper sarmentosum), mangosteen, holy basil
(Ocimum tenuiflorum), longan, Perilla frutescens (a healthy oil seed alternative) and others.
A few Asian medicinal plants like Catharanthus roseus, Gardenia jasminoides, Ophiopogon
japonicus, Paeonia lactiflora, Paeonia suffruticosa and Rehmannia glutinosa are currently produced
in Australia as ornamental crops. These might be further investigated and developed for their
medicinal properties. Good knowledge exists with regards to climate requirements and growing
practices for these species.
The summaries presented here for potential ‘new’ crops are a basis and guide for decision-making
and follow-up investigations. There is a need to keep surveying the medical literature, an important
activity given the ever changing and advancing nature of this industry and its affiliated research
activities. It would be advisable to formalise this monitoring, with possibly RIRDC sponsoring the
process and making results available in the public domain.
The selection of potentially useful new options for medicinal plant production in Australia was based
on the reviews of species presented in the results section. A plant was more likely to receive
favourable support when these criteria were met• superior efficacy data (~ the key requirement)
• requirements for production systems suited existing Australian systems
• not a weed/invasive species or disease organism.
A systematic approach for choosing potential crops could also include - plant material that is fresher or
of higher quality than imported products (specifically aromatics and leaf crops), and herbs that are
expensive due to over-harvesting or loss of habitat in China (3).
Potential ‘new’ crops (Chinese and/or non-Chinese Asian; regardless of previous recommendation; not
existing Australian crops) - Apocynum venetum (antioxidant, hypertension, cholesterol), Codonopsis
pilosula (dementia), Fallopia multiflora (cholesterol, dementia), Huperzia serrata (dementia), Lycium
barbarum (cardiovascular, cholesterol, diabetes, cancer), Lycium chinense (liver), Stephania tetrandra
(cardiovascular, arthritis) and Trichosanthes kirilowii (cancer, HIV, inflammation, cardiovascular,
osteoarthritis).
In some instances the efficacy evidence was good but the plant was a risk. For example, a potential
weed species, associated toxicity (eg. Tripterygium wilfordii) or as with Ganoderma lucidum (reishi
mushroom), a history as a potent root rot organism. Gastrodia elata (for dementia) is another with
supportive efficacy data but this orchid relies on a symbiotic relationship with a dangerous tree root
pathogen. Others like bitter melon (Momordica charantia) which is now a popular northern Australian
crop, await the final piece in their medical efficacy jigsaw, an elusive human trial that will confirm or
reject their status as life-savers!
The majority of these potential ‘new’ medicinal species yield tubers-rhizomes-roots, leaves or fruits
and are generally suited to extant cropping systems. However, often the root yield (sometimes for ‘root
bark’ is from perennial plants rather than the annuals that are the basis of our current root crop
industry. Mechanisation of plant production, harvest and postharvest handling is likely to be an
increasingly important element in competitive Australian agriculture/horticulture and requires
consideration in developing industry around new crop species.
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The leaves of Apocynum venetum and Eucommia ulmoides (tochu tea) can be brewed as decoctions (or
teas). Lycium barbarum (wolfberries) berries can be eaten fresh or dried and provide functional levels
of active phytochemicals when consumed in this form. The dried leaves of Lycium barbarum and
Lycium chinense can also be used as teas and, in addition, their young shoots and leaves can be
consumed raw in salads, or cooked.
While this favoured list largely comprises fruit, leaf and root-rhizome crops, there are other more
unusual opportunities that could be explored, for example Viscum coloratum (Korean mistletoe) and
Monascus purpureus (red yeast). The mistletoe would require unique production systems (like host
trees), but opportunities to investigate a tissue-culture based production system that avoids host issues
could be pursued. Red yeast, also has good supportive medical evidence and is traditionally processed
as a fermented product; another novel option for the Australian food processing industry to further
develop.
There is also a need to monitor prospective new crops and maintain a list of species that are currently
attracting considerable research with good results. The publication of results from a single well
planned, human trial can be enough to launch these species into the medical spotlight. ‘Asian’ options
to watch include - Actaea heracleifolia (cardiovascular), Albizia lebbeck (asthma, dementia), Alpinia
oxyphylla (dementia, cancer), Anemarrhena asphodeloides (diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular), Angelica
keiskei (cancer, cardiovascular), Cinnamomum verum (antioxidant, diabetes), Cnidium monnieri
(cancer), Commiphora wightii (arthritis, cholesterol), Coriolus versicolor (cancer), Corydalis
yanhusuo (cardiovascular), Cuscuta chinensis (immune response, cancer), Eucommia ulmoides
(cardiovascular, cancer, diabetes), Gleditsia sinensis (cancer), Gymnema sylvestre (diabetes),
Ligusticum sinense (cardiovascular), Polygala tenuifolia (dementia), Rabdosia rubescens (cancer),
Sinomenium acutum (arthritis, inflammation), Spatholobus suberectus (HIV, inflammation, bone),
Tinospora cordifolia (diabetes, cancer, immune response), Uncaria rhynchophylla (cardiovascular,
dementia), Uncaria sinensis (antioxidant, dementia), Ziziphus jujuba (dementia). Definitive, positive
results from future human trials would establish these plants as bona fide medicinals.
Of the prospective crops currently under investigation in Australia, one of the most interesting is
Camptotheca acuminata which is used to treat cancer. Opportunities require on-going investigation.
The potential for new neuroprotective (ie. antidementia) plant products to be further developed and
have an impact on Australian health is another exciting possibility, especially given that dementia
effects one in four Australians over the age of 60 (4). Leaf extracts from Ginkgo biloba certainly
appear to counter memory loss and improve cognition but the prospect of identifying a new fruit or
vegetable that could be consumed fresh (or with minimal home processing) and have ginkgo’s same
powers is alluring. There is an increasing research trend to seek herbal remedies for neuroprotection
and many animal studies have recently been completed.
This review identified three species of potential ‘new’ Chinese medicinal crops that have not been
previously proposed for production in Australia - Apocynum venetum, Huperzia serrata, Stephania
tetrandra. Of the prospective species that should be monitored, a further seven Chinese crops had not
been previously proposed for Australian production - Actaea heracleifolia, Alpinia oxyphylla,
Anemarrhena asphodeloides, Corydalis yanhusuo, Sinomenium acutum, Spatholobus suberectus,
Uncaria sinensis. An additional three ‘Asian’ crops - Angelica keiskei (Japan), Commiphora wightii
(India), and Tinospora cordifolia (India/Myanmar), have not been previously proposed for production
in Australia but deserve further consideration.
At least seventeen species of ‘Asian’ medicinal plants are also Australian indigenous species, these
include - Bacopa monnieri, Brucea javanica, Calophyllum inophyllum, Centella asiatica, Crotalaria
sessiliflora, Cuscuta chinensis, Dioscorea bulbifera, Diospyros maritima, Entada phaseoloides,
Erythrina variegata, Melia azedarach, Morinda citrifolia, Murraya paniculata, Oenanthe javanica,
Orthosiphon aristatus, Persicaria orientalis and Vitex trifolia. Note: Food Standards Australia New
Zealand (FSANZ) have prohibited the incorporation of Crotalaria spp. and Melia azedarach into
foods, and Entada phaseoloides (or matchbox bean) can be toxic if untreated (5).
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Most of these species are tropical or subtropical and in the majority of cases their range includes
regions of coastal Northern Territory and Queensland. Melia azedarach and Persicaria orientalis have
a wider distribution that extends further south. Centella asiatica also ranges further south, extending
from the East coast through to Adelaide, and including the far SW coast of Western Australia. The
Centella asiatica plants of temperate Australia differ from those of the north, and are possibly different
subspecies (6); a factor that may need consideration in commercial production.
Brucea javanica, Calophyllum inophyllum and Morinda citrifolia have been used as medicinal plants
by the Australian aborigines (6). Of the 17 Australian native species - Bacopa monnieri, Brucea
javanica, Centella asiatica, Cuscuta chinensis, Morinda citrifolia, Oenanthe javanica and
Orthosiphon aristatus have either some associated efficacy data or warrant on-going investigation
whether this be as an ‘Asian medicinal plant’ or ‘Australian bush-food’.
One Asian medicinal plant and also a rare Australian native, Oenanthe javanica is a member of the
celery family and although previously identified with potential for Australian production has remained
largely uncommercialised here. Opportunities for its inclusion into stir-fry or salad mixes should be
considered to give them a unique ‘Australian-Asian’ component. Very few Australian indigenous
species are currently incorporated into these types of food products. Oenanthe javanica is an edible
herb (7) which can potentially enhance cardiovascular health. It does not contain poisonous
‘oenanthotoxin’, which is present in some other species in the genus (7), making them prohibited
additives for food (FSANZ).
The investigation did not search specifically for phytochemicals with inhibitory effects on
Staphylococcus aureus (ie. the bacterium ‘golden staph’). However, during the course of data retrieval
it was found that eighteen species had been investigated and activity against Staphylococcus aureus
established. These plants included - Alstonia macrophylla, Angelica dahurica, Arnebia euchroma,
Caesalpinia sappan, Ecklonia kurome, Erythrina variegata, Garcinia mangostana, Lycium chinense,
Ocimum tenuiflorum, Orthosiphon aristatus, Phellodendron amurense, Pinellia ternata, Salvia
miltiorrhiza, Scutellaria barbata, Terminalia chebula, Xanthium sibiricum, Zanthoxylum piperitum
and Ziziphus jujuba.
Prospective introduction of new species into the Australian medicinal ‘herbs’ industry requires an
associated thorough and complete understanding of markets, both domestic and overseas. Marketplace
competitiveness of any one species will vary with production site, production techniques and valueadding, and needs to be explored to assist in focusing research efforts and effective industry
development.
Stories among growers that tell of crops being down-priced or even rejected by value-adders are
commonplace, eg. growing conditions didn’t generate sufficient levels of active compounds, there was
local over-supply, cheap imports from China, problems with quality loss following harvest. Local
production might also be constrained by limited product demand within our relatively small
population. This might not seem to be an issue for cases relating to chronic disease but if the needs of
the nation for a particular phytochemical can be met from small plantings, then clearly investment in
that crop should be limited. However, export opportunities for well produced, safety regulated plant
products should be an alternative worth investigation. Rather than the onus being on RIRDC or state
departments of agriculture to define these market options, investors in this industry need to focus their
commitment based on their unique circumstances, including those linked to follow-on arrangements
and contracts with value-adders. Australian based pharmaceutical companies will generally seek to use
high quality Australian produce if it is competitively priced.
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Discussion references
1. O’Hara, M., Kiefer, D., Farrell, K. & Kemper, K. (1998) A review of 12 commonly used medicinal
herbs. Arch Fam Med., 7: 523-536.
2. ‘Be warned, urges AMA’, Sunday Herald Sun, June 4, 2006, page 19.
3. Craker, L.E. & Giblette, J. (2002) Chinese medicinal herbs: Opportunities for domestic production.
pp. 491-496. In, Janick, J. & Whipkey, A. (Eds.), ‘Trends in new crops and new uses’. Pub.- ASHS
Press, Alexandria, VA.
4. Australian Government, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare website,
http://www.aihw.gov.au/
5. Parsons, M. & Faragher, J. (2004) Food safety for the native plant food industry. Department of
Primary Industries, Victoria. 41 pp.
6. Lassak, E. & McCarthy, T. (2001) Australian Medicinal Plants. Pub.- Reed New Holland, JB
Books, 240 pp.
7. Samy, J., Sugumaran, M. & Lee, K. (2005) Herbs of Malaysia. Ed.- K.M.Wong, Pub.- Times
Editions - Marshall Cavendish, 244 pp.
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