# Shoseiryuto (Minor Blue Dragon)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shoseiryuto-minor-blue-dragon
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Xiao Qing Long Tang, Minor Blue Dragon Decoction, 小青龍湯, XQLDT, Little Azure Dragon Tang, Shōseiryūtō

## Overview

Shoseiryuto is a traditional Japanese Kampo formula containing eight herbs that target respiratory conditions through [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and bronchodilatory mechanisms. Its key compounds include ephedrine from Ma-huang and glycyrrhizin from licorice root, which work synergistically to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing.

## Health Benefits

- Relieves nasal congestion by reducing mucus production, improving airflow. - Supports immune health by enhancing antibody response, providing robust protection against pathogens. - Reduces asthma symptoms by relaxing bronchial muscles, facilitating easier breathing. - Alleviates cold symptoms by acting as an expectorant, clearing respiratory passages. - Enhances [mental focus](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) by increasing oxygen supply to the brain, boosting concentration. - Reduces inflammation by inhibiting [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s, promoting overall wellness. - Supports [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) by reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), leading to clearer, healthier skin.

## Mechanism of Action

Shoseiryuto's primary compounds include ephedrine from Ephedra sinica, which acts as a beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist to relax bronchial smooth muscles and reduce mucus secretion. Glycyrrhizin from licorice root inhibits phospholipase A2 and reduces inflammatory mediators like leukotrienes and [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s. The formula's synergistic herb combination modulates Th1/Th2 immune balance and suppresses mast cell degranulation in respiratory tissues.

## Clinical Summary

Clinical studies on Shoseiryuto include randomized controlled trials with 40-120 participants showing significant improvements in allergic rhinitis symptoms and asthma control. A 12-week study demonstrated 65% reduction in nasal discharge and 58% improvement in breathing difficulty scores compared to placebo. Research indicates effectiveness for seasonal allergies, with symptom relief beginning within 2-4 weeks of treatment. However, most studies are small-scale and conducted primarily in Japanese populations, limiting generalizability.

## Nutritional Profile

Shoseiryuto (Minor Blue Dragon Decoction) is a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formula, not a single-ingredient food, and thus lacks conventional macronutrient/caloric nutritional data. Its profile is defined by its 8 constituent herbs and their bioactive phytochemical concentrations: (1) Mahuang (Ephedra sinica, ~9g per standard dose) — primary alkaloids ephedrine (~0.5–2.0% dry weight), pseudoephedrine (~0.25–1.0%), methylephedrine; bronchodilatory and decongestant agents. (2) Keishi/Cinnamomum cassia (~9g) — cinnamaldehyde (~60–90% of essential oil, ~1–4% dry bark weight), cinnamyl acetate, eugenol; [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and warming properties. (3) Shaoyao/Paeonia lactiflora (~9g) — paeoniflorin (~2–4% dry weight), paeonol, albiflorin; antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory. (4) Kankyo/Zingiber officinale dry ginger (~6g) — gingerols (~0.5–1.5%), shogaols (~0.4–1.2%), zingerone; expectorant and anti-nausea effects. (5) Kanzo/Glycyrrhiza uralensis (~9g) — glycyrrhizin (~2–6% dry weight, caution with prolonged use due to pseudoaldosteronism risk), liquiritin, isoliquiritin; anti-inflammatory and mucolytic. (6) Gomisin/Schisandra chinensis (~6g) — schisandrins (~0.5–1.5%), gomisins, deoxyschisandrin; [adaptogen](/ingredients/condition/stress)ic and [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). (7) Hoshin/Pinellia ternata (~9g) — ephedrine-related alkaloids, beta-sitosterol (~0.05–0.1%), organic acids; expectorant and antiemetic. (8) Saishinn/Asarum sieboldii (~6g) — methyleugenol (~50–80% essential oil), safrole (~1–5%), higenamine; local anesthetic and bronchodilatory effects (safrole content warrants dose caution). Bioavailability notes: Synergistic aqueous decoction extraction enhances solubility of polar glycosides (paeoniflorin, glycyrrhizin) significantly compared to raw herbs. Ephedrine bioavailability from decoction is approximately 70–85% of isolated compound. Fiber, protein, and conventional micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) are not pharmacologically relevant in the prepared decoction form; trace minerals such as calcium (~5–15 mg per dose), potassium (~20–40 mg per dose), and magnesium (~3–8 mg per dose) are present in negligible therapeutic quantities from plant material leaching. Total polyphenol content per standard dose (daily decoction) estimated at 150–400 mg gallic acid equivalents.

## Dosage & Preparation

Dosage should be determined by a Kampo practitioner. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Shoseiryuto is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, or [insomnia](/ingredients/condition/sleep) due to its ephedrine content. The formula can interact with MAO inhibitors, stimulant medications, and antihypertensive drugs, potentially causing elevated [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) or heart palpitations. Contraindicated in individuals with severe cardiovascular disease, hyper[thyroid](/ingredients/condition/hormonal)ism, or glaucoma. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to ephedrine content and limited safety data.

## Scientific Research

Some clinical studies suggest Shoseiryuto may be effective in managing respiratory conditions, but further research is needed to validate these findings.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Shoseiryuto has been used in Japanese Kampo medicine for centuries, particularly for respiratory ailments. It reflects the adaptation of Chinese herbal formulas into Japanese therapeutic practices.

## Synergistic Combinations

Licorice root, Ginger, Cinnamon, Pinellia

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How long does Shoseiryuto take to work for nasal congestion?

Shoseiryuto typically begins reducing nasal congestion within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Clinical studies show peak effectiveness after 8-12 weeks, with 65% reduction in nasal discharge and improved airflow in most users.

### What is the recommended dosage of Shoseiryuto?

The standard Shoseiryuto dosage is 7.5 grams of extract powder daily, divided into 2-3 doses before meals. Traditional preparation uses 2.5-5 grams three times daily, though dosing should be adjusted based on individual response and practitioner guidance.

### Can Shoseiryuto be taken with asthma medications?

Shoseiryuto may interact with bronchodilators and other asthma medications due to its ephedrine content, potentially causing overstimulation or elevated heart rate. Consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription asthma treatments to avoid adverse interactions.

### Does Shoseiryuto contain stimulants?

Yes, Shoseiryuto contains natural ephedrine from Ma-huang (Ephedra sinica), which acts as a stimulant and bronchodilator. This can cause side effects like increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and insomnia in sensitive individuals.

### Is Shoseiryuto effective for seasonal allergies?

Clinical studies demonstrate Shoseiryuto's effectiveness for seasonal allergic rhinitis, with 58% improvement in breathing difficulty and significant reduction in sneezing and runny nose symptoms. It works by modulating immune response and reducing inflammatory mediators in nasal passages.

### Is Shoseiryuto safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Shoseiryuto should be avoided during pregnancy without consulting a healthcare provider, as some of its herbal components may affect fetal development. Women who are breastfeeding should also seek professional guidance before using this formula, as certain ingredients may pass into breast milk and affect nursing infants.

### Does Shoseiryuto interact with common cold and allergy medications?

Shoseiryuto may interact with certain antihistamines and decongestants, potentially reducing effectiveness or causing adverse effects when combined. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before starting Shoseiryuto to prevent unwanted drug interactions.

### What does clinical research say about Shoseiryuto's effectiveness for respiratory conditions?

Traditional Japanese Kampo medicine research supports Shoseiryuto's use for nasal congestion and asthma symptom relief, though more rigorous clinical trials are needed for stronger evidence in Western medical standards. Most available evidence comes from traditional use documentation and smaller Japanese studies rather than large-scale randomized controlled trials.

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