A decidious woody shrub growing to 2m at a slow rate. It flowers in July in most habitats. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by insects.

Tonic, adaptogen, anticholesteremic, mildly anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, nervine and immune tonic (whole plant); adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycaemic, tonic and vasodilator (root and root bark).

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Plants For A Future

The plant stimulates resistance to stress and so it is now widely used as a tonic in times of stress and pressure. Regular use is said to restore vigour, improve the memory and increase longevity. The root and root bark is taken internally during convalescence and in the treatment of menopausal problems, geriatric debility, physical and mental stress etc. It works by strengthening the bodies natural immune system and also used to combat radiation sickness and exposure to toxic chemicals. The root and rhizome is used for treating aching of the loins and knees, insomnia, and dream-disturbed sleep.

Jing-Nuan Wu. An Illustrated Chinese Materia Medica. P: 36, Oxford University Press, Inc.2005.