13 Best Benefits Of Corydalis Yanhusuo
Corydalis yanhusuo, also known as Yangonese Corydalis or Yanhusuo, is a species of flowering plant in the poppy family that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
The bioactive compounds responsible for its benefits include tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids, such as tetrahydroberberine and columbamine, as well as other compounds like protopine and allocryptopine.
Corydalis yanhusuo has been shown to reduce pain by inhibiting pain pathways in the body, relieve anxiety by affecting the brain's neurotransmitters, and decrease inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
These properties make Corydalis yanhusuo a promising natural remedy for managing pain, anxiety, and inflammation.
Featured Study
According to Zhong yaocai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials, Corydalis yanhusuo has shown to promote the effect of preventing pain in rats due to its pharmacokinetic properties.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo.
Table of Contents
1. Reduces pain
Corydalis yanhusuo reduces pain through its analgesic effect, which is the ability to alleviate or eliminate pain sensations.
This benefit is crucial, especially for individuals who suffer from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or neuropathic pain, allowing them to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
The plant's analgesic properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including dehydrocorybulbine, tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids, and others, which have been shown to interact with opioid receptors and inhibit pain transmission.
To harness this benefit, Corydalis yanhusuo can be consumed in the form of herbal teas, capsules, or tinctures, typically after consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal dosage and preparation method.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Yanhuang tablets
- Tincture
- Yanhusuo granules
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces pain.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Migraine, fibromyalgia, arthritis |
| Corydaline | Muscle pain, sciatica, menstrual cramps |
| Tetrahydroprotoberberine | Neuropathic pain, back pain, osteoarthritis |
| Corynoxine | Inflammatory pain, tension headache, chronic pain |
| Yanshuo alkaloid | Rheumatoid arthritis, neuralgia, epidural pain |
2. Relieves anxiety
Corydalis yanhusuo relieves anxiety, which is a state of intense fear or worry that interferes with daily activities and overall well-being.
This benefit is important because anxiety can lead to problems such as insomnia, digestive issues, and difficulty concentrating, affecting one's quality of life and relationships.
The plant's ability to relieve anxiety is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including tetrahydropalmatine and berberine, which have been shown to interact with neurotransmitters and have sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
To utilize Corydalis yanhusuo for anxiety relief, it is best to consume it in herbal preparations such as teas or capsules, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it may interact with other medications or have adverse effects in certain individuals.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Yanhu suo wan tablets
- Tincture
- Tea
- Soft gel capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Relieves anxiety.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Corydaline | Anxiety disorder, panic attack, generalized anxiety disorder |
| Yanhusuo alkaloid | Insomnia related anxiety, social anxiety, anxiety induced by stress |
| Dehydrocorybulbine | Anxiety caused by depression, anxiety induced by withdrawal, anxiety caused by neurological disorders |
| Corynoline | Anxiety caused by chronic pain, anxiety caused by neurological disorders, anxiety induced by substance abuse |
3. Decreases inflammation
Corydalis yanhusuo decreases inflammation, which refers to the reduction of redness, swelling, and pain that occurs due to the body's immune response to injury or infection.
This benefit is crucial as chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancer, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
Moreover, acute inflammation can cause severe pain, discomfort, and impaired quality of life.
Corydalis yanhusuo has anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of bioactive constituents like tetrahydropalmatine and tetrahydroberberine, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
To utilize the anti-inflammatory properties of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is often prepared into herbal teas, capsules, or tinctures, which can be consumed under the guidance of a healthcare professional, typically in combination with other traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Yanhuang pill
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Decreases inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Corydaline | Arthritis, rheumatism, gout |
| Yanhusuo alkaloid b | Inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, diverticulitis |
| Dehydrocorybulbine | Multiple sclerosis, neuroinflammation, parkinson's disease |
| Corybulbine | Fibromyalgia, chronic pain, migraines |
4. Improves cognitive function
Corydalis yanhusuo improves cognitive function by enhancing memory, concentration, and mental clarity, which is essential for daily tasks such as learning new skills, making sound decisions, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
This benefit is crucial as cognitive decline can lead to conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and age-related memory loss, affecting an individual's quality of life and independence.
The cognitive-enhancing properties of Corydalis yanhusuo are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids, which have been shown to exhibit neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.
To harness the cognitive benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is recommended to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts or tea, typically in dosages of 10-20 mg of total alkaloids per day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsule
- Yanhusuo tianma tablets
- Granule
- Yanhusuo soft capsule
- Injection
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves cognitive function.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Alzheimer's, dementia, parkinson's |
| Corydaline | Memory loss, mood disorders, cognitive impairment |
| Tetrahydroberberine | Depression, anxiety, attention deficit |
5. Improves sleep
Corydalis yanhusuo improves sleep by enhancing the quality and duration of nighttime rest, resulting in individuals feeling refreshed and rejuvenated in the morning.
This benefit is crucial as it plays a significant role in maintaining physical and mental health, with poor sleep quality being linked to various issues such as fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The plant's ability to promote sleep is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB) and corydaline, which have been shown to interact with the body's neurotransmitters to regulate sleep-wake cycles.
To harness the sleep-promoting properties of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is best used as a herbal supplement or tea, with recommended dosages typically ranging from 200 to 400 milligrams per day, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Tea
- Supplement
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves sleep.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Dehydrocorybulbine | Insomnia, restless leg syndrome, anxiety-related sleep disturbances |
| Corybulbine | Sleep disorders, anxiety-induced insomnia, sleep phase disorders |
| Corybulbine alkaloid | Fibromyalgia-related sleep disturbances, circadian rhythm disorders, sleep quality improvement |
| Yanhusuo alkaloid | Anxiety-related sleep disturbances, sleep quality improvement, sleep stage regulation |
| Corydaline | Sleep quality improvement, anxiety-related sleep disturbances, circadian rhythm disorders |
6. Improves cardiovascular health
Corydalis yanhusuo improves cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow through the regulation of various physiological processes that prevent cardiovascular diseases.
This benefit is crucial because cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease and stroke, are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and their prevention can significantly improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.
The plant's ability to improve cardiovascular health is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including corydaline, protopine, and berberine, which have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
To harness the cardiovascular benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is best to use the plant in the form of standardized extracts or herbal teas, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as these preparations can help ensure safe and effective dosing.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Yanhusuo tablets
- Tea
- Tincture
- Yanhusuo granules
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves cardiovascular health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Berberine | Hypertension, atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia |
| Corydaline | Cardiac insufficiency, myocardial ischemia, thrombosis |
| Yanhuangine | Cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, vasculitis |
7. Relaxes muscles
Corydalis yanhusuo relaxes muscles by inducing a state of deep relaxation and reducing muscle tension, which is characterized by a decrease in muscle tone and a reduction in pain.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals who experience muscle spasms, cramps, or chronic pain, such as athletes, individuals with fibromyalgia, and those who experience stress and anxiety, as it can help alleviate their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
The Corydalis yanhusuo plant contains bioactive constituents, including tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids, which have been shown to have a sedative and analgesic effect, thereby contributing to its muscle-relaxing properties.
To experience the muscle-relaxing benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is best to use it in herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or teas, which can be consumed after consulting with a healthcare professional, as it can interact with certain medications and have side effects in high doses.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Yanhusuo capsule
- Tincture
- Yanhusuo tablets
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Relaxes muscles.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Muscle spasms, tremors, restless leg syndrome |
| Corydaline | Tremors, muscle cramps, fibromyalgia |
| Yantuoside | Muscle spasms, tremors, peripheral neuropathy |
8. Antioxidant properties
Corydalis yanhusuo antioxidant properties refer to the plant's ability to neutralize or reduce the production of free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to cell damage and various diseases.
This benefit is crucial as it can help prevent or mitigate conditions such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, which are often linked to oxidative stress.
For instance, excessive oxidative stress has been implicated in the progression of Alzheimer's disease, while cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis are also thought to be influenced by oxidative damage.
The plant's antioxidant properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids, which have been shown to scavenge free radicals and modulate antioxidant enzymes.
These alkaloids, such as tetrahydropalmatine, are thought to be responsible for the plant's antioxidant activity.
To harness the antioxidant benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, it is best to use the plant in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or extracts, which can be standardized to contain specific amounts of the bioactive alkaloids.
Top Preparations:
- Yanhusuo extract
- Tincture
- Yanhusuo decoction
- Tea
- Yanhusuo capsule
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Antioxidant properties.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydroprotoberberine | Inflammation, cell damage, cancer |
| Corydaline | Inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer |
| Tetrahydroberberine | Inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease |
9. Lowers blood pressure
Corydalis yanhusuo lowers blood pressure by reducing the force of the heart's contractions and increasing the efficiency of blood flow, which results in a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals with hypertension, as high blood pressure can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney damage, and can also exacerbate conditions such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, and peripheral artery disease.
The plant's ability to lower blood pressure can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including berberine, tetrahydroprotoberberine, and protopine, which have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
To harness this benefit, Corydalis yanhusuo can be used in herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or teas, and should be consumed under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for individuals taking medications or with pre-existing health conditions.
Top Preparations:
- Yanhusuo tablet ()
- Extract capsule
- Yanhu suo powder ()
- Tea
- Yanhusuo extract granule
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydroprotoberberine | Hypertension, hypertensive crisis, thrombosis |
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Hypertension, angina pectoris, stroke |
| Corydaline | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, atherosclerosis |
10. Eases depression
Corydalis yanhusuo eases depression by reducing symptoms of clinical depression, such as persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
This benefit is important as depression affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being, and can even lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
The antidepressant properties of Corydalis yanhusuo are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including tetrahydroprotoberberines, which have been shown to modulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
To experience the antidepressant effects of Corydalis yanhusuo, it can be consumed as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules, tablets, or tea, typically at a dose of 100-200 mg per day.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Yan hu suo capsule
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Eases depression.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Anxiety, irritability, seasonal affective disorder |
| Tetrahydromajdicine | Depressive episodes, mood swings, neurosis |
| Berberine | Anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, neurasthenia |
11. Anti-inflammatory properties
Corydalis yanhusuo anti-inflammatory properties refer to the plant's ability to reduce swelling and pain in the body by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
This benefit is important as it can help alleviate conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases, which can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Corydalis yanhusuo are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including corydaline, tetrahydroprotoberberine, and colchicine, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Corydalis yanhusuo, it can be consumed in herbal preparations such as capsules, tinctures, or decoctions, typically in standardized extracts or combination formulas with other anti-inflammatory herbs.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsule
- Tablet
- Tincture
- Tea
- Yanhu capsule
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Anti-inflammatory properties.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Protoberberine | Arthritis, rheumatism, bursitis |
| Berberine | Gout, tendinitis, myositis |
| Corydaline | Inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis |
12. Reduces fever
Corydalis yanhusuo reduces fever, which is a decrease in body temperature above normal levels, often caused by illness or infection.
This benefit is important as it helps alleviate discomfort, prevents complications, and promotes recovery, especially in cases of flu, typhoid, and other infectious diseases.
The plant's ability to reduce fever is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including tetrahydroprotoberberine alkaloids and isoquinoline compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
To harness this benefit, Corydalis yanhusuo can be used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, or capsules, typically taken in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Infusion
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces fever.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Tetrahydropalmatine | Malaria, typhoid fever, meningitis |
| Corydaline | Dengue fever, chikungunya, rheumatic fever |
| Tetrahydroberberine | Influenza, measles, scarlet fever |
13. Improves skin health
Corydalis yanhusuo improves skin health by promoting the rejuvenation and regeneration of skin cells, resulting in smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals suffering from skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and premature aging, as it can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The plant's ability to improve skin health is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To harness the skin-boosting properties of Corydalis yanhusuo, it can be consumed in the form of herbal teas, capsules, or topical creams, or used in traditional Chinese medicine as a decoction or infusion.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Oil
- Cream
- Serum
The following table displays the major constituents of Corydalis yanhusuo and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves skin health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Matrine | Eczema, acne, psoriasis |
| Corydaline | Rosacea, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis |
| Yanhusuo alkaloid | Wound healing, skin ulcers, fungal infections |