Chuang Xiong

Ligusticum sinense

Physical Characteristics

Ligusticum sinense is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antifungal Antirheumatic Antispasmodic Diaphoretic Emmenagogue Sedative The root is anodyne, antibacterial, antifungal, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, diaphoretic, hypotensive and sedative[176, 218, 238]. It is taken internally in the treatment of menstrual disorders, post-partum bleeding, coronary heart disease, poor circulation, headaches etc[238]. It is soaked in alcohol for 2 weeks and then used in the treatment of gout[218]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known