Adenophora Root Chinese Herb
Adenophora Root (Nan Sha Shen): A Moistening Herb for the Lungs, Throat, and Yin Deficiency
Introduction
Adenophora Root, known as Nan Sha Shen (南沙参) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is the dried root of Adenophora stricta or Adenophora tetraphylla. It is a gentle, yin-nourishing herb that replenishes body fluids, moistens dryness, and clears Lung heat. Traditionally used to soothe dry coughs, sore throats, and thirst from yin deficiency, Nan Sha Shen also supports digestion and restores balance to the body after illness or heat-related depletion.
What Is Adenophora Root?
Nan Sha Shen is a sweet, slightly bitter, and cooling herb prized for its ability to moisten and nourish. Unlike stronger tonics, it acts softly yet effectively to restore yin and fluids. It primarily enters the Lung and Stomach meridians, where it helps replenish internal moisture and ease irritations caused by dryness or heat. In herbal soups and teas, it imparts a delicate sweetness and smooth texture, making it both healing and pleasant to consume.
Health Benefits of Adenophora Root
Moistens the Lungs and Relieves Dry Cough
Nan Sha Shen nourishes Lung yin and moistens dryness, helping to alleviate dry coughs, sore throats, or hoarseness caused by heat or dryness.
Nourishes Stomach Yin and Eases Thirst
It replenishes Stomach fluids, soothing dryness in the mouth and throat while supporting appetite and digestion. This makes it useful for those weakened by fever, illness, or excessive heat.
Clears Heat and Generates Fluids
Nan Sha Shen clears residual internal heat that damages body fluids, gently cooling the system and promoting recovery.
Supports Skin and Mucous Membranes
By moistening the Lungs and enriching fluids, it benefits dry or rough skin and soothes irritation of the throat and airways.
Restores Balance After Illness or Fatigue
Its replenishing nature makes it ideal after fever, dehydration, or chronic stress, helping the body regain calm and internal nourishment.
How to Use Adenophora Root
In Herbal Preparations
Nan Sha Shen is commonly decocted for 20–30 minutes. It pairs well with yin-nourishing herbs like Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon Root), Yu Zhu (Solomon’s Seal), or Bai He (Lily Bulb) for dry coughs and throat irritation.
In Daily Soups or Teas
Add a few slices of Nan Sha Shen to soups with pear, red dates, and goji berries to create a gentle Lung-moistening and skin-nourishing tonic. It is also commonly simmered with American ginseng or astragalus for balanced energy and hydration.
In TCM Formulas
Nan Sha Shen is a key ingredient in formulas such as Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang, used to nourish Lung and Stomach yin, and Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang, which soothes dryness and chronic coughs. It is frequently combined with herbs that harmonize yin and qi to maintain internal balance.
Where to Buy Adenophora Root
You can find Nan Sha Shen at:
- Chinese herbal shops and TCM pharmacies
- Asian grocery stores (often labeled “Adenophora Root” or “Southern Glehnia Root”)
- Online herbal retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or ChineseHerbsDirect
Look for:
- Pale yellow to light beige root slices, slightly sweet and aromatic
- Clean, dry pieces without mold or moisture
- GMP-certified or lab-tested products for purity and safety
Are There Any Side Effects?
Adenophora Root is gentle and well-tolerated. However, excessive use may cause mild digestive discomfort in individuals with weak digestion or phlegm-dampness. Avoid using it if you have a cold, cough with phlegm, or loose stools.
Conclusion
Adenophora Root (Nan Sha Shen) is a soothing and nourishing herb that moistens the Lungs, restores fluids, and calms internal heat. Ideal for dry coughs, sore throats, or post-illness recovery, it is a beloved ingredient in TCM soups and tonics for maintaining moisture, balance, and inner vitality.
FAQs
Can I drink Adenophora Root tea every day?
Yes, moderate daily use is safe for maintaining hydration and Lung nourishment, especially in dry or hot weather.
What’s the difference between Nan Sha Shen and Bei Sha Shen?
Nan Sha Shen (Adenophora stricta) is milder and more moistening, while Bei Sha Shen (Glehnia littoralis) is slightly cooler and stronger at clearing Lung heat.
Does Adenophora Root help with dry skin?
Yes. By nourishing Lung and Stomach yin, it helps restore moisture to the skin and supports smooth, hydrated complexion.