Corydalis
TCM's premier pain reliever, often called the 'herbal morphine'.
Also known as: Corydalis yanhusuo • Yan Hu Suo
Overview
Corydalis, or Yan Hu Suo, is one of the most potent analgesics in the Chinese herbal pharmacopeia. It is used to treat a wide variety of pain conditions, from menstrual cramps and abdominal pain to chest pain and traumatic injury. It works by invigorating the blood and moving Qi to alleviate pain. Its primary active compound, dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB), has been shown to work on dopamine receptors to block pain signals.
Key Benefits
Pain Management
Its primary and most celebrated use. It is effective for dull, aching, or sharp, stabbing pain anywhere in the body that is caused by Qi and blood stagnation.
Menstrual Pain
It is a key ingredient in many formulas for dysmenorrhea (painful periods) due to its ability to move blood in the uterus.
Neuropathic Pain
The active alkaloid DHCB has shown significant promise in modern research for treating chronic nerve pain, a type of pain that is notoriously difficult to manage.
Abdominal and Hernia Pain
It is traditionally used for pain in the epigastrium and abdomen.
Dosage & How to Take
For the whole herb, 3-9 grams in decoction. For standardized extracts, follow product recommendations, as potency varies widely.
| Purpose | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Pain | 6-12g per day (whole herb) | Often combined with other blood-moving herbs like Ligusticum (Chuan Xiong). |
| Chronic Pain (Extract) | 5-10mg DHCB | This is a dose for the isolated active compound, not the whole herb. |
Best Time to Take
Take as needed for pain. Effects can be felt within 1-2 hours.
With or Without Food
Can be taken with or without food. Taking with food may reduce potential for stomach upset.
Forms & Bioavailability
| Form | Absorption | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processed Rhizome (Zhi Yan Hu Suo) | Good | Decoctions | Often processed with vinegar to enhance its pain-relieving properties. |
| Standardized Extract | High | Targeted, potent pain relief | Often standardized for total alkaloids or specifically for DHCB. This form is more potent and should be used with more caution. |
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Drowsiness, dizziness, or nausea, especially at higher doses.
Rare
- In very large doses, it can be toxic to the liver. It is not for long-term daily use without professional guidance.
Contraindications
- Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use with caution in patients with liver disease.
Interactions
May increase the sedative effects of other drugs or herbs.
May increase bleeding risk due to its blood-moving properties.
Scientific Research
A Novel Analgesic from a Traditional Chinese Medicine
Researchers identified dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB) in Corydalis as a potent analgesic for both inflammatory and neuropathic pain, without producing tolerance like morphine.
Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.