[Textual research on Bupleuri Radix in Chinese classical prescriptions]
Jia-Chen Zhao1, Qian-Qian Weng2, Yue Zhang3
1State Key Laboratory of Dao-di Herbs Breeding Base, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Beijing 100700, China.
Summary
This study traces the historical sourcing of Bupleuri Radix, revealing its origins evolved from mixed species to Bupleurum species. Modern identification aligns with historical records for authentic Bupleuri Radix.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacognosy
- Ethnobotany
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) history
Background:
- Bupleuri Radix has a complex history of botanical identification.
- Its usage in classical prescriptions requires clarification of authentic sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct textual research on Bupleuri Radix used in the Catalogue of Ancient Classical Prescriptions.
- To clarify its name, origin, production area, harvesting, and processing throughout Chinese history.
Main Methods:
- Consultation of historical herbal and medical texts.
- Review of modern literature.
- Field investigation.
Main Results:
- Bupleuri Radix sources varied historically, from mixed Bupleurum and Peucedanum to Caryophyllaceae, and later predominantly Bupleurum species.
- Bupleurum scorzonerifolium and B. chinense are identified as the main genuine sources in later dynasties.
- Differences in efficacy between Stellaria dichotoma and Bupleurum species were noted, with S. dichotoma initially misidentified.
Conclusions:
- The authentic origin of Bupleuri Radix has evolved significantly over dynasties.
- Current identification of Bupleuri Radix for classical prescriptions should prioritize B. scorzonerifolium and B. chinense.
- Future selection of Bupleuri Radix should consider current resources and align with the Chinese Pharmacopoeia.
