An overview of the health benefits of Atractylodes macrocephala

Atractylodes is a commonly used medicinal material in traditional Chinese medicine for strengthening the spleen and replenishing qi.Strengthens the spleen and removes dampness, diuresis and swelling, soothes fetus and strengthens the surface.and other core functions. Modern research shows that Atractylodes macrocephala also contains volatile oils, polysaccharides and other ingredients, which have certain auxiliary effects on regulating immunity and anti-oxidation. The primary and secondary functions can be summarized as:Strengthen the spleen and nourish the stomach (core)>Diuretic and dampness>Anti-abortion and fixation of the surface>Assisted in regulating metabolism. Its application forms are diverse, including traditional Chinese medicine decoctions, patent medicines and health-preserving teas, but it needs to be used according to physical syndrome differentiation.

The core function of strengthening the spleen and nourishing the stomach

Atractylodes macrocephala has been hailed as "the most important medicine for replenishing qi of the spleen" by doctors of past dynasties. "Compendium of Materia Medica" records its ability to"Benefits the spleen and stomach, removes dampness and replenishes qi". For symptoms of spleen deficiency such as loss of appetite, abdominal distension and loose stools, Atractylodes macrocephala is often combined with Codonopsis pilosula and Poria cocos (such as Sijunzi decoction). Modern research has found that atractylodes in Atractylodes macrocephala can promote gastrointestinal motility and improve digestive function (citation source: "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 edition). Representative Chinese patent medicines includeBuzhong Yiqi Pills(Tongrentang),Shenling Baizhu Powder(Yunnan Baiyao) etc.

Diuresis, dampness and metabolism regulation

The dampness-drying properties of Atractylodes are beneficial toEdema and phlegm-damp obesityHas conditioning effect. Zhang Zhongjing used Atractylodes macrocephala combined with Poria cocos to treat water-dampness stagnation in Treatise on Febrile Diseases. Research shows that Atractylodes polysaccharide can regulate intestinal flora and help improve metabolic syndrome (citation source: "Chinese Herbal Medicine" 2019 study). It should be noted that people with yin deficiency and internal heat should use it with caution to avoid aggravating symptoms such as dry mouth. Common compatible products such asWulingsan(Zhongjing Wanxi Pharmaceutical).

Auxiliary effects on tocolysis and immune regulation

The anti-fetal effect of Atractylodes macrocephala is found in "Yi Zhong Shen Xi Lu", and it is often used in combination with Scutellaria baicalensis.Fetal dysphoria. Its immunomodulatory effect is derived from Atractylodes polysaccharide, and experiments have shown that it can increase macrophage activity (citation source: "International Journal of Immunology" 2021). However, pregnant women should use it under the guidance of a physician. Related products such asBaotai Ling Capsule(Modified Pharmaceutical) Contains Atractylodes Rhizome.

Summary and Notes

Atractylodes macrocephala is a material with the same source of medicine and food, and its health-preserving value is concentrated inSpleen and stomach conditioning, other functions need to be used together. When taking it, avoid eating it with peaches, plums, and sparrow meat (warning in "Compendium of Materia Medica"). The following table shows common Atractylodes preparations:

Quote sources:
1. "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 Edition (National Pharmacopoeia Commission)
2. "Compendium of Materia Medica" by Li Shizhen (Ming Dynasty)
3. Zhongjing Wanxi Pharmaceutical official website product description