Dang Shen, Bellflower

Codonopsis pilosula

Physical Characteristics

Codonopsis pilosula is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 1.7 m (5ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N.E. Asia - Korea

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Adaptogen Appetizer Digestive Galactogogue Sialagogue Stomachic Tonic Dang Shun is an important herb in Chinese medicine, it is a gentle tonic that increases energy levels and helps the body adapt to stress[254]. The root contains saponins, triterpenes and steroids[279], it is similar in action to ginseng (Panax species), but it is milder and has a shorter-lasting effect[4, 116, 174, 176, 218, 238, 254]. It is a sweet, warm, soothing herb that is taken as an energy tonic[238]. It acts mainly on the spleen, lungs and stomach, raising secretion of body fluids and blood sugar levels, and stimulating the immune system[238]. Research has shown that it increases haemoglobin and red blood cell levels and lowers the blood pressure. It also helps increase endurance to stress and promotes alertness[254]. The root and the whole plant are adaptogen, appetizer, digestive, galactogogue, sialagogue, stomachic and tonic[116, 147, 174, 176, 238, 254]. It is taken internally in the treatment of low energy, poor appetite and digestion, anaemia, shallow breathing and debility after illness[238, 254]. It is often cooked with rice until it is glutinous and used as a tonic food[238]. The dried root is decocted with other herbs and used to treat a wide range of ailments[218]. The roots of plants at least three years old are harvested in the autumn and can be used fresh or dried[238].

Known Hazards

None known