Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex (Guan Huang Bai)

Alias: Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex, Guan Huang Bai, Amur Cork Tree Bark

Taste: Bitter, Cold

Pharmacological Effects:

The main components of Guan Huang Bai (Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex) have significant heat-clearing, damp-drying, and detoxifying properties. It is commonly used to treat diseases caused by damp-heat, particularly conditions like urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal damp-heat, and jaundice. Guan Huang Bai works by clearing heat, detoxifying, and drying dampness, which helps to relieve symptoms such as difficulty urinating, diarrhea, and jaundice.

Additionally, Guan Huang Bai has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Modern research shows that its active compounds, particularly berberine, can inhibit the growth of various bacteria and fungi, making it highly effective in treating urinary tract infections, skin conditions, and eczema. Its cold nature makes it especially effective at clearing heat, detoxifying, and reducing swelling, and it is commonly used for treating various inflammatory diseases caused by damp-heat.

Guan Huang Bai also has antioxidant effects, helping to eliminate free radicals and slow the aging process. Furthermore, modern studies suggest that it can have adjunctive therapeutic benefits for chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.