The Rehmannia Root - Health Benefits and Side Effects

The Rehmannia Plant in Bloom
(Rehmannia glutinosa)
(Click on image to enlarge)

Botanical Name: Rehmannia glutinosa
Other Common Names:
Chinese foxglove, di-huang, shu di-huang, disui.
Habitat:
China, Japan, Korea.
Plant Description:
Rehmannia is a perennial herb with flowers that can range from yellow to burgundy in colour. Similar in appearance to Foxglove, this plant has been used as an ornamental garden plant in the Unitied States.
Plant Parts Used:
Root.

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Therapeutic Uses and Benefits of Rehmannia

Rehmannia is the most important Chinese herb for disorders of the kidneys and adrenal glands. Rehmannia also appears to combat adrenal suppression caused by steroid hormones and has a similar tonic effect on the adrenal cortex as liquorice. A feature of rehmannia is that it is in a small group of herbs that are used to autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and Multiplesclerosis. Used to combat the symptoms and progression of these illnesses, anti-inflammatory herbs used include rehmannia, shemidesmus and bupleurum. Rehmannia also hinders the breakdown of cortisone products in the body, which lengthens this drugs effect. In one study, patients with rheumatoid arthritis were treated with rehmannia and experienced good results, including a reduction of joint pain, swelling, and increased joint movement. Rehmannia also improved the general symptoms of asthma and urticaria. Mild oedema developed in a small percentage of patients which is a similar reaction to that induced by adrenocortical hormones.

The Rehmannia Root
(Rehmannia glutinosa)

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) the unprocessed rehmannia root is used to reduce heat in the blood, to nourish yin and promote the production of body fluid. Indications for TCM use include febrile diseases, skin eruptions and nosebleeds. In Western herbal medicine, rehmannia is looked upon as an adrenal tonic; and is believed to support the cells of the adrenal cortex and pituitary during times of prolonged stress. Oral doses (10-500 mg/kg) of rehmannia fluid extract had an immune modulating effect in an experimental model. Rehmannia could therefore be helpful in addressing autoimmune conditions of the adrenals and thyroid. Unlike liquorice (also an adrenal tonic), rehmannia is suitable for use in patients with hypertension (high blood pressure).
Rehmannia’s main active principles are iridoid glycosides. Catalpol was the first of these isolated from rehmannia, and it appears its main function is to stimulate production of adrenal cortical hormones. These hormones are anti-inflammatory and explain the use of rehamannia in treating asthma, skin diseases, and arthritis. Catapol is also used to increase the production of sex hormones and in TCM; Rehmannia is prescribed to treat menopause, impotence, hair loss (alopecia) and other hormone deficiencies.

Dosage and Administration

The dose range for rehmannia is wide ranging depending on the preparation used and is best discussed with your health care practitioner

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of The Rehmannia Root

Rehmannia is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This herb may cause loose bowel movements in some people and may cause bloating. In some rare instances nausea and abdominal pain may be experienced when using this herb.

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