Qian Hu

Peucedanum praeruptorum

Physical Characteristics

Peucedanum praeruptorum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from October to November. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antibacterial Antifungal Carminative Expectorant Febrifuge The dried root is analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, antitussive, carminative, expectorant and febrifuge[147, 176, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of colds and headaches, coughing and asthma, tightness in the chest (laboured or difficult breathing)[147, 176].

Known Hazards

Although no mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, skin contact with the sap of a number of members in this genus is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people[65, 218]. They are also said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].