sheng di huang

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Mechanism of Action: 

• Nourishing Yin and Cooling Heat: sheng di huang is categorized as a Yin tonic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is believed to nourish the Yin energy in the body and cool excessive Heat. This is thought to restore balance to the body and address imbalances associated with Yin deficiency and excessive Heat. 
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: sheng di huang has been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may help modulate inflammatory processes in the body, potentially by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. 
• Antioxidant Activity: sheng di huang contains various bioactive compounds, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which possess antioxidant properties. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and protect cells from oxidative damage. 
• Renal Protective Effects: sheng di huang has traditionally been used to support kidney health. It may help protect the kidneys and improve renal function by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, and promoting diuresis (increased urine production). 

Spectrum of Activity: 

• Yin Deficiency: sheng di huang is primarily used to address Yin deficiency patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Yin deficiency is believed to manifest in symptoms such as dryness, heat, irritability, and night sweats. sheng di huang’s nourishing and cooling properties help restore Yin energy and alleviate these symptoms. 
• Kidney Yin Deficiency: sheng di huang is often used to tonify and nourish the Kidney Yin. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Kidney is the foundation of Yin and Yang energies. Kidney Yin deficiency may manifest as dizziness, tinnitus, hot flashes, and dryness. sheng di huang’s Yin nourishing properties are believed to address these imbalances. 
• Inflammatory Conditions: Due to its reported anti-inflammatory effects, sheng di huang may support conditions associated with excessive Heat and inflammation, such as fevers, sore throat, skin rashes, and inflammatory joint disorders. 
• Kidney Disorders: sheng di huang is traditionally used to support kidney health and address conditions related to kidney dysfunction, including kidney Yin deficiency and kidney Heat patterns. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Abdominal distension 

Diarrhea 

Black Box Warning

Black box warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications/caution: 

• Allergy: Individuals allergic to Rehmannia or any of its constituents should avoid using this herb. 
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use sheng di huang only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. It is traditionally considered safe during pregnancy and lactation, but more research is needed to confirm its safety. 
• Blood Disorders: sheng di huang may affect blood sugar levels and clotting. Individuals with bleeding disorders or diabetes should use this herb with caution. 
• Hypotension: sheng di huang may have hypotensive effects, which may lower blood pressure. Individuals with low blood pressure should use this herb with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. 
• Surgery: sheng di huang may affect blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding during surgery. It is advisable to stop using this herb at least two weeks before any scheduled surgical procedures. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.   

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its potential to modulate the immune system. It may help reduce inflammation and support immune function. 

• Antioxidant activity: sheng di huang contains various compounds, such as iridoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which exhibit antioxidant effects. Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. 
• Hepatoprotective effects: Studies suggest that sheng di huang may have protective effects on the liver. It has been investigated for its potential to prevent liver damage, improve liver function, and promote liver regeneration. 
• Renoprotective effects: sheng di huang has been traditionally used for kidney-related conditions. Some studies have indicated its potential to protect against kidney damage, promote renal function, and reduce oxidative stress in the kidneys. 
• Cardiovascular effects: sheng di huang has been investigated for potential cardiovascular benefits. It may help regulate blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and protect against certain cardiovascular diseases. 
• Antidiabetic properties: sheng di huang has been studied for potential antidiabetic effects. It may help regulate blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Potential pharmacodynamic effects of sheng di huang: 

• Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects: Studies have suggested that sheng di huang may have anti-inflammatory properties and may modulate the immune system. Some compounds in sheng di huang, such as catalpol and acteoside, have been shown to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit inflammatory signaling pathways. Additionally, polysaccharides in sheng di huang have been found to enhance the immune response. 
• Antioxidant activity: sheng di huang contains various compounds, including iridoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which exhibit antioxidant effects. These compounds help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. 
• Hepatoprotective effects: sheng di huang has been investigated for its potential hepatoprotective effects. Some studies have suggested that it may help protect liver cells from damage, improve liver function, and promote liver regeneration. These effects may be due to the herb’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Renoprotective effects: sheng di huang has been traditionally used for kidney-related conditions, and some studies have suggested potential renoprotective effects. Polysaccharides in sheng di huang have been found to reduce oxidative stress in the kidneys and protect against kidney damage. 
• Cardiovascular effects: sheng di huang has been investigated for potential cardiovascular benefits. Some studies have suggested that it may help regulate blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and protect against certain cardiovascular diseases. These effects may be due to the herb’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Antidiabetic properties: sheng di huang has been studied for its potential antidiabetic effects. Some compounds in the herb, such as catalpol, have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood glucose levels. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When consumed orally, the bioactive compounds in sheng di huang are expected to be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The absorption rate and extent may vary depending on factors such as the formulation of the herb (e.g., decoctions, extracts, or capsules), the presence of other ingredients, and individual variations in gastrointestinal physiology. 

Distribution 

After absorption, the distribution of sheng di huang constituents in the body is poorly characterized. The active compounds are likely distributed through systemic circulation to various tissues and organs. The distribution pattern may depend on factors such as the lipophilicity of the compounds and their affinity for specific tissues or receptors. 

Metabolism 

The metabolism of sheng di huang compounds in humans has not been extensively studied. However, like many herbal medicines, the active constituents may undergo biotransformation in the liver or other organs. The specific enzymes involved in the metabolism and the resulting metabolites have yet to be well known. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The excretion of sheng di huang compounds and their metabolites is another aspect that has not been extensively investigated. It is expected that elimination primarily occurs through urine and feces, but the specific excretion routes and the active constituents’ elimination half-life are not well understoo

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Decoctions: Traditional Chinese medicine often utilizes decoctions, which involve boiling the herb in water to extract its active constituents. sheng di huang can be prepared as a decoction by simmering the herb in water for a certain period. The resulting liquid is then consumed orally. 
• Herbal extracts: sheng di huang is also available as concentrated herbal extracts. These extracts are typically prepared using water or alcohol as solvents to extract the active compounds from the herb. The extracts are usually standardized to contain specific concentrations of active constituents. They can be taken orally, often mixed with water or other beverages. 
• Capsules or tablets: sheng di huang may be processed into capsules or tablets for convenient oral administration. These formulations often contain powdered or granulated herb materials. Capsules or tablets are typically taken with water according to the recommended dosage. 
• Topical applications: In some cases, sheng di huang may be used topically. It can be prepared as a poultice or applied to the affected area as a cream or ointment. This method is commonly used for skin conditions or localized ailments. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: sheng di huang 

Why do we use sheng di huang? 

sheng di huang, also known as Rehmannia glutinosa, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have various therapeutic uses.  

• Nourishing Yin and Blood: sheng di huang is a Yin tonic in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to nourish and replenish Yin energy and blood. It is believed to be particularly beneficial for conditions associated with Yin deficiency, such as dizziness, dry mouth and throat, night sweats, and hot flashes. 
• Clearing Heat and Cooling the Blood: sheng di huang is also known for its cooling properties. It is used to clear heat from the body and cool the blood. It may be employed in conditions associated with excess heat, such as fevers, inflammation, sore throat, and skin rashes. 
• Supporting Kidney and Adrenal Health: traditional Chinese medicine considers sheng di huang beneficial for the kidneys. It is often used to tonify and support kidney function, which is believed to help strengthen the body’s overall vitality. It may be used for kidney yin deficiency, adrenal fatigue, and urinary system disorders. 
• Nourishing Liver and Eye Health: sheng di huang is believed to have a nourishing effect on the liver and is used to support liver health and function. It is often included in herbal formulas for liver imbalances and eye disorders, as it is believed to help improve vision and alleviate dry and red eyes. 
• Promoting Heart Health: sheng di huang is sometimes used to support cardiovascular health. It is believed to help regulate blood circulation, calm the spirit, and strengthen the heart. It may be used in heart palpitations, insomnia, and anxiety associated with heart imbalances. 
• Relieving Menstrual Disorders: sheng di huang is commonly used in formulas to regulate and tonify the blood in women’s health. It may address irregular menstruation, menstrual pain, and excessive bleeding.