Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Bupleurum chinense contains saikosaponins, particularly saikosaponin-a, which modulate hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes and support liver detoxification. The herb acts on serotonin pathways and enhances natural killer cell activity for immune support.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Chai Hu is derived from the root of the Bupleurum chinense plant, which is native to East Asia. It is harvested and dried for use in herbal medicine.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Scientific studies on Chai Hu have shown its potential in modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. Some clinical trials have explored its efficacy in treating liver disorders and mood disturbances.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense) is not consumed as a food for macronutrient value but is valued for its bioactive phytochemical composition. Key compounds include: Saikosaponins (primary active constituents, total concentration approximately 1.5–4.5% of dried root weight) — notably Saikosaponin A (anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory; ~0.3–1.0%), Saikosaponin C (~0.2–0.6%), and Saikosaponin D (hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory; ~0.3–1.2%). Volatile oils (~0.1–0.5% of dried root) containing α-pinene, limonene, linalool, and bupleurumol contribute to its aromatic and mild analgesic properties. Flavonoids including rutin, quercetin, and isorhamnetin (estimated total ~0.2–0.8%) provide antioxidant activity; quercetin has moderate oral bioavailability (~16–20%) enhanced by co-occurring glycosides. Polysaccharides (approximately 3–8% of dried root) contribute to immunostimulatory effects by activating macrophages. Phytosterols such as β-sitosterol and stigmasterol are present in trace amounts (~0.05–0.15%), supporting anti-inflammatory action. Minerals (per 100 g dried root, approximate): potassium ~800–1200 mg, calcium ~200–450 mg, magnesium ~150–300 mg, iron ~8–15 mg, zinc ~2–5 mg, manganese ~3–7 mg. Vitamins: trace amounts of vitamin C (~2–5 mg/100 g dried root) and small quantities of B-vitamins (B1, B2). Crude fiber content is approximately 15–25% of dried root. Protein content is roughly 5–9% of dried root weight, though it is not used as a protein source. Lignans and organic acids (ferulic acid, caffeic acid) are present in minor concentrations (~0.05–0.3%), contributing to hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects. Bioavailability notes: Saikosaponins are triterpenoid saponins with relatively low oral bioavailability (~5–15%) due to extensive first-pass metabolism and hydrolysis by gut microbiota (e.g., Saikosaponin A is converted to prosaikogenin); decoction (traditional preparation) improves extraction efficiency. Co-administration with other herbs in classical formulas (e.g., Xiao Chai Hu Tang) may enhance absorption via synergistic interactions. Saikosaponin D shows improved bioavailability when formulated with lipid-based carriers.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Saikosaponin-a and other saikosaponins in Bupleurum chinense modulate hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, enhancing phase I detoxification processes. The compounds also influence serotonin receptor binding and reuptake, contributing to mood regulation. Additionally, saikosaponins stimulate natural killer cell proliferation and cytotoxicity through enhanced interferon-gamma production.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Human studies on Bupleurum chinense are primarily observational with small sample sizes (20-60 participants). One 8-week trial showed 23% improvement in liver enzyme markers in patients with mild hepatic dysfunction. Depression studies using traditional formulas containing Bupleurum reported 15-20% mood score improvements, though isolating Bupleurum's specific contribution remains unclear. Most evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies rather than robust human trials.
Also Known As
Research updates — and 25% off your first order
Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.