Radix Ardisiae Caudatae
Aliases：Hong Dou Zi (Red Bean); Dian Di Gai Fang (Yao language); Liang Xun Xun (Yao language); Gao Jiao Liang San (Zhuang language); Tailed-Leaf Ardisia.
Emei Ardisia (Caudate Ardisia) is the name of a traditional Chinese medicine. It is the root of Ardisia caudata Hemsl., a plant in the family Primulaceae (Myrsinaceae). It grows in shaded and moist places under sparse or dense forests in valleys and on mountain slopes at elevations of 1,000–2,200 meters. It is recorded in Chinese Materia Medica, A Brief Compilation of Ethnic Medicines of Guangxi, and other herbal works.
Efficacy & Actions
Dispels Wind-Dampness; removes Heat-toxin; relieves pain.
Indications
Wind-Dampness arthralgia; sore throat with swelling; toothache; stomach pain; traumatic injuries and fractures; lymph node enlargement.
Modern Pharmacology
Dedicated pharmacological research on Caudate Ardisia remains insufficient. The following findings are primarily derived from chemical and pharmacological studies on plants of the genus Ardisia and preliminary explorations of Caudate Ardisia, and are provided for reference: Anti-inflammatory effect: The flavonoid constituents in Caudate Ardisia possess anti-inflammatory activity and can reduce the production and release of inflammatory factors, thereby alleviating inflammation-induced pain and discomfort. Antibacterial effect: Certain constituents in Caudate Ardisia possess antibacterial activity and can inhibit or kill bacteria, helping to prevent and treat diseases caused by bacterial infections. Cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities: The methanol extracts of Vietnamese Ardisia species (including A. caudata) exhibit moderate cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities, with IC₅₀ values of 5.26–8.46 mg/mL. Antitumor potential: Ardisia species are rich in phenolic and benzoquinone compounds, some of which possess antitumor activity. Bergenin and other coumarin constituents isolated from related species of the same genus also exhibit multiple bioactivities. Note: The above pharmacological findings are largely derived from comprehensive studies on the genus Ardisia. Dedicated systematic pharmacological research on Caudate Ardisia (the root of A. caudata) remains to be further conducted. Traditional actions and indications should remain the primary basis for use.
Ingredients
Preliminary chemical studies have been conducted on Caudate Ardisia. Five compounds were isolated from the petroleum ether fraction, and five compounds were isolated and identified from the ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions. The main constituents include: Petroleum ether fraction (5 compounds): Palmitic acid. Sitosterol. Spinasterol. Ardisin E. 3-[(Z)-13-Heptadecenyl]-2-hydroxy-5-methoxy-p-benzoquinone. Ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions (5 compounds): Belamcandaquinone G (Ⅰ). 5-(cis-8-Heptadecenyl)resorcinol (Ⅱ). Belamcandaquinone H (Ⅲ). Kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (Ⅳ). Quercetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (Ⅴ). All the above compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time. Other categories: According to literature, Caudate Ardisia also contains flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, polysaccharides, and other active constituents.
Usage & Dosage
Oral use: Decocted in water, 9–20 g; or steeped in alcohol. External use: Appropriate amount. Fresh material is pounded and applied topically.
Contraindications
Pregnant women and individuals with a weak constitution should use this product under the guidance of a physician. It should not be taken in large doses over a long period.
Selected Formulas
1、 For stomach pain, toothache, and pharyngitis (Zhuang medicine) (Guangxi Ethnic Medicine Brief Compilation) Take 9g of Gaojiao Liangshan. Decoct in water and drink, twice daily. 2、 For traumatic injuries and fractures (Yao medicine) (Guangxi Ethnic Medicine Brief Compilation) Take 9g of Diandi Gaifang. Decoct in water and drink, twice daily. 3、 For rheumatism, lymph node enlargement, traumatic injuries, and fractures (Yao medicine) (Guangxi Ethnic Medicine Brief Compilation) Take 9g of Liangxun. Decoct in water and drink; additionally, take fresh herb, crush, and apply to the affected area.
Medicinal Parts
Root.
Selection & Storage
Dried material should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry place. Protect from moisture and insect damage. Airtight storage is recommended. Avoid direct sunlight. Fresh material should be used promptly or refrigerated for short-term storage.
