Corydalis Root

Corydalis Root
Corydalis yanhusuo Common name: corydalis rhizome

Corydalis root is a low growing plant with narrow leaves and pink flowers that is native to China, Japan and Siberia. A relative of the opium poppy, is stores energy over the winter in a yellow tuber or root. corydalis root, corydalis

The root in dug up in the autumn, dried, sliced and used in herbal medicine.

Many times, herbalists will combine this with California poppy to treat the symptoms of anxiety, agitation and nervousness.

Benefits Of Corydalis Root

Anxiety, insomnia and restless leg syndrome. Sedative qualities of the alkaloids increase the effects of barbituates, treat anxiety, and are about 40% as effective as morphine for inducing sleep.
Cataracts. Alcohol extracts of corydalis slow cataract formation in diabetics.

Considerations In Use

Never take this herb or the tuber during pregnancy.

Continuous use may result in increased tolerance and therefore, decreased effectiveness. Cross tolerance to morphine may also develope.

Do not combine this herbal supplement with any sleeping medication such as Ambien, Lunesta or amitriptyline. This goes for OTC sleeping aids also!

For treatment of cataracts, corydalis root should be used only under professional supervision.

Read about more herbs at the Herb Dictionary Online.

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