Corydalis Yanhusuo

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- Corydalis Yanhusuo, a main ingredient of Swish -

Did you know that one of the most effective natural painkillers is a key ingredient in Swish CBD/CBG? Yes, Corydalis yanhusuo has been used for hundreds of years to relieve all kinds of pain and offers a number of other important health benefits. We don't claim that Swish CBD/CBG cures or alleviates any disease, but below you'll find a great article with studies and research references on the important health benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, one of the main ingredients in Swish CBD/CBG.

Corydalis Yanhusuo

- A comprehensive guide to its benefits and how it works -

Corydalis yanhusuo (Yan Hu Suo) is a well-known medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The root of this plant, often simply called "Corydalis," is valued for its potentially pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. Today, Corydalis yanhusuo is gaining increasing attention in the modern world for its unique health benefits, which are supported by both traditional wisdom and scientific studies.

This article explains what Corydalis Yanhusuo is, how it works, and what health benefits it offers.

What is Corydalis Yanhusuo?

Corydalis yanhusuo is a flowering plant from the Papaveraceae family, which also includes poppies. It originates from China, where it thrives in wooded, temperate regions. The plant's tuber (the thickened part of its root) is the main part used for medicinal purposes.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Corydalis Yanhusuo is classified as an herb that "invigorates the blood" and "relieves pain." This is a key category of herbs used to treat a range of conditions, particularly pain, blood stagnation, and inflammation. Corydalis is used to treat everything from headaches and menstrual cramps to chest pain and injuries.

How does Corydalis Yanhusuo work?

The key to the therapeutic effects of Corydalis yanhusuo lies in its alkaloid content, particularly that of an alkaloid called tetrahydropalmatine (THP). This compound has proven beneficial to the body and possesses, among other things, pain-relieving and calming properties.

Alkaloid content

Corydalis yanhusuo contains over 20 different alkaloids, which are responsible for its diverse effects on the body. THP, one of the best-studied alkaloids, has been shown to affect the central nervous system. It interacts with dopamine receptors and has an inhibitory effect on certain nerve pathways, thereby helping to reduce sensations of pain and stress.

Interaction with the dopamine system

Tetrahydropalmatine works primarily by interacting with dopamine receptors, particularly D1 and D2 receptors. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in the perception of pleasure, reward, and pain. By modulating the release and reuptake of dopamine, Corydalis can dampen pain signals in the brain and promote relaxation without producing the same addictive effects associated with some opioid medications.

Activation of GABA receptors

Corydalis also activates GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors, which are inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. This interaction contributes to the relaxation of the nervous system and could explain the calming and anxiety-relieving effects of Corydalis.

Inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels

Another mechanism by which Corydalis relieves pain is the inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels. These channels are crucial for the generation and propagation of pain signals. By blocking them, Corydalis helps reduce the perception of pain at its source, making it particularly effective for neuropathic pain.

Top health benefits of Corydalis Yanhusuo

Pain relief

Corydalis yanhusuo is perhaps best known for its potent pain-relieving properties. It has been traditionally used to treat various types of pain, including headaches, joint pain, and menstrual cramps. Modern research supports its use as an effective natural analgesic.

Study 1:

A study published in the journal Current Neuropharmacology found that tetrahydropalmatine (THP) from Corydalis effectively relieves pain by modulating dopamine and other neurotransmitters involved in pain perception.

Study 2:

Another study, published in Phytotherapy Research, showed that Corydalis extract significantly reduced inflammation-related pain in animal models, suggesting its potential in the treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Improved sleep quality

Corydalis yanhusuo is traditionally used as a sedative to promote restful sleep. The THP content in Corydalis interacts with GABA receptors to calm the central nervous system and promote relaxation. Unlike pharmaceutical sedatives, Corydalis does not carry the same risk of dependence or the next day's drowsiness.

Study 3:

A study published in the journal Neuropharmacology reported that THP improved sleep quality and duration in animal models by enhancing GABAergic transmission, a mechanism that promotes relaxation and sleep.

Anxiety reduction

Through its interaction with dopamine and GABA receptors, Corydalis can also help reduce anxiety. Dopamine plays a role in mood regulation, and by modulating its activity, Corydalis can help stabilize mood and alleviate anxiety symptoms without causing sedation or lethargy.

Study 4:

A clinical study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Corydalis extract reduces anxiety-like behavior in rats, making it a promising herbal remedy for treating stress and anxiety disorders.

anti-inflammatory effect

Inflammation plays a role in many chronic diseases, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders. Corydalis yanhusuo has anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate the effects of chronic inflammation and reduce symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Study 5:

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry found that Corydalis alkaloids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect and help to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Support for neuropathological pain

Neuropathic pain, often caused by nerve damage, is difficult to treat with conventional medications. Corydalis yanhusuo has shown promise in treating this type of pain, particularly due to its ability to inhibit voltage-gated sodium channels involved in pain transmission from damaged nerves.

Study 6:

A study published in Pain Research & Management concluded that Corydalis Yanhusuo can effectively relieve neuropathic pain in animal models without causing tolerance or dependence.

Cardiovascular health

Corydalis yanhusuo can promote cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and preventing blood stagnation, a condition in which blood flow slows down, potentially leading to blood clots or strain on the cardiovascular system. This aligns with its traditional use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for "strengthening the blood."

Study 7:

A study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that Corydalis can prevent platelet aggregation (the clumping of blood cells), which plays a role in the formation of blood clots.

Relief from menstrual pain

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Corydalis yanhusuo is frequently used to alleviate menstrual cramps and other symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Its ability to relieve pain and improve blood circulation may explain its effectiveness in treating this condition.

Study 8:

A study in Phytomedicine found that Corydalis Yanhusuo can reduce the severity of menstrual pain without causing gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

conclusion

Corydalis yanhusuo is considered safe for most people when used properly. It is a versatile herb with a variety of health benefits, particularly in pain relief, improving sleep, and reducing anxiety. Its traditional use is supported by modern research, making it a promising natural alternative to synthetic drugs for managing pain and inflammation. As with any herbal remedy, it is important to use Corydalis responsibly and consult a doctor to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using Corydalis unless advised against by a doctor.

Sources

Zong, L., et al. Current Neuropharmacology, 2014.

Li, X., et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2015.

Wang, X., et al. Neuropharmacology, 2016.

Zhao, Y., et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2017.

Zhang, L., et al. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2018.

Liu, H., et al. Pain Research & Management, 2019.

Sun, S., et al. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 2019.

Zhou, J., et al. Phytomedicine, 2020.

Note: Information from CILI BY DESIGN / October 18, 2024