Ku Shen, also known as Sophorae Flavescentis Radix or Sophora Root, is a bitter and cold herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to clear heat, dry dampness, expel wind, and relieve itching. It is particularly effective for damp-heat in the lower burner, especially affecting the skin and genitourinary system. Ku Shen is commonly used to treat eczema, itching, jaundice, vaginal discharge, and urinary tract infections. It also has antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Functions & Benefits
Clears Heat & Dries Dampness
Ku Shen is widely used to clear damp-heat from the lower jiao, especially in conditions such as jaundice, diarrhea, vaginal discharge, and urinary tract infections. It is ideal for symptoms such as yellow, foul-smelling discharge, burning urination, and damp-related digestive complaints.
Dispels Wind & Stops Itching
This herb is very effective in treating itching, particularly from damp-heat skin disorders such as eczema, scabies, and fungal infections. It can be used both internally and externally to alleviate itching and inflammation.
Kills Parasites & Treats Fungal Infections
Ku Shen is used for conditions such as tinea, scabies, and vaginal itching caused by damp-heat and parasites. Its strong antifungal and antiparasitic actions make it effective for chronic or recurrent skin and genital issues.
Promotes Urination & Clears Damp-Heat from the Bladder
Ku Shen treats lin syndrome with symptoms such as dark, painful, or scanty urination. It is used in urinary tract infections, prostatitis, or pelvic inflammation due to damp-heat accumulation.
Indications
Eczema, dermatitis, or itchy skin eruptions due to damp-heat.
Scabies, tinea, or vaginal itching caused by parasites or fungal infection.
Painful urination, urinary tract infection, or prostatitis due to damp-heat.
Yellow leukorrhea, vaginal discharge, or itching from lower burner heat.
Jaundice, diarrhea, or digestive complaints due to damp-heat accumulation.
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Red with a yellow greasy coating, especially in the lower third.
Pulse: Slippery and rapid, indicating damp-heat and internal inflammation.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Ku Shen
Ku Shen treats Damp-Heat in the lower burner, Damp-Heat Skin Conditions, and Wind-Damp Itching. These patterns are associated with symptoms such as itching, burning urination, skin lesions, vaginal discharge, and internal heat.
Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for patients with Spleen and Stomach Deficiency with cold or loose stools.
Avoid during pregnancy and in Yin Deficiency without damp-heat.
Prolonged use may damage fluids; use cautiously in dry constitutions.
Use topically with care in patients with sensitive or damaged skin.
Conclusion
Ku Shen is a cold, bitter herb that powerfully clears damp-heat and relieves itching from both internal and external causes. It is especially effective for treating skin diseases, vaginal discharge, urinary tract infections, and parasitic conditions. With its strong drying and heat-clearing actions, it is best suited for hot, damp, and inflammatory patterns affecting the lower body and skin.
