Glehnia Root Herb

Glehnia Root (Bei Sha Shen): A Cooling Herb for Lung Yin, Dryness, and Throat Irritation

Introduction

Glehnia root, known as Bei Sha Shen (北沙参) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a gentle yet effective herb valued for its ability to nourish yin, moisten dryness, and support lung and stomach health. It is commonly used in conditions involving dry cough, hoarseness, or dry mouth due to lung or stomach yin deficiency. With its sweet and slightly bitter taste and cool nature, Bei Sha Shen is a classic remedy for dryness-related issues without being overly cold or harsh.

What Is Glehnia Root?

Bei Sha Shen refers to the dried root of Glehnia littoralis, a coastal plant native to East Asia. In TCM, it is considered sweet, slightly bitter, and cool, and it primarily enters the Lung and Stomach meridians. Its main functions are to nourish lung yin, clear heat, and generate fluids, making it especially useful in dry, irritated conditions caused by internal heat and yin deficiency.

Health Benefits of Glehnia Root

1. Nourishes Lung Yin and Clears Heat
Bei Sha Shen is often used for dry, hacking coughs, hoarseness, and sore throat due to lung yin deficiency. It helps restore moisture and soothes heat-related dryness.

2. Moistens the Stomach and Generates Fluids
It is useful for dry mouth, thirst, or appetite loss due to stomach yin deficiency, especially after febrile illness or prolonged dryness.

3. Supports Recovery from Illness or Heat Damage
This root is commonly included in formulas for people recovering from heat conditions, chronic lung issues, or long-term dryness in the body.

4. Gentle and Well-Tolerated for Yin Deficiency
Unlike stronger heat-clearing herbs, Bei Sha Shen is gentle and rarely causes digestive upset, making it suitable for long-term or maintenance use.

How to Use Glehnia Root

1. In Soups and Decoctions
Boil 6–15 grams of sliced Glehnia root with other yin-nourishing herbs like Yu Zhu, Mai Men Dong, or Shi Hu. Simmer gently for 30–45 minutes.

2. In Herbal Teas
Steep a few slices with hot water as a mild tea for sore throat, especially when paired with licorice root or chrysanthemum flowers.

3. In TCM Formulas
Bei Sha Shen is a key ingredient in yin-tonic formulas such as Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang. It is often used with American ginseng or Ophiopogon root.

Where to Buy Glehnia Root

You can find Bei Sha Shen at Chinese herbal shops, natural health stores, or online through reputable TCM retailers.

Look for:

• Clean, creamy white to beige slices

• Aromatic, slightly sweet scent

• Organic or wild-harvested options from trusted sources

Are There Any Side Effects?

Glehnia root is generally very safe and well-tolerated. However, it is not suitable for those with exterior cold symptoms, such as chills or an active cold or flu. Individuals with excess dampness or loose stools should use it with caution.

Conclusion

Glehnia root (Bei Sha Shen) is a soothing yin-nourishing herb that gently replenishes fluids, calms dryness, and supports lung and stomach function. Ideal for those recovering from dryness, chronic cough, or heat conditions, it offers a cooling, moistening remedy with minimal side effects and wide compatibility.

FAQs

Can I use Glehnia root daily?
Yes, it is mild and suitable for daily or long-term use, especially for yin deficiency and dryness.

Does it help with hoarseness or sore throat?
Absolutely. It is one of the go-to herbs in TCM for dry throat and voice strain.

Can children take Glehnia root?
Yes, in appropriate doses and under supervision, especially for dry cough or throat irritation.