Introduction to Xi Shen and Its Effects

Many people are unfamiliar with Xi Shen, also known as Asarum or Cigarette Pot Flower. It is a perennial herbaceous plant and a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine. Due to its thin roots and pungent taste, it has earned this name. Xi Shen possesses various medicinal effects, including dispelling wind, dispelling cold, reducing fever, relieving pain, and sedation. It also exhibits good anesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects on local areas.

Effects and Functions of Xi Shen

1. Antipyretic: Its volatile oil has an antipyretic effect on artificial fever in rabbits and can lower the normal body temperature of animals below normal.

2. Analgesic: Its volatile oil has an analgesic effect on rabbits, with analgesic strength comparable to 0.5mg/kg of aspirin.

3. Local anesthesia: The decoction of Asarum can block the impulse conduction of the sciatic nerve in toads, and its anesthetic effect is similar to 1% procaine. The volatile oil of Asarum has a surface anesthetic effect on rabbit corneal reflexes. The volatile oil has infiltrative anesthetic efficacy, but the decoction is ineffective. 50% Asarum tincture also has a local anesthetic effect on human tongue mucosa.

4. Sedative: Injection of volatile oil into the abdominal cavity of guinea pigs has a significant central inhibitory effect. Small doses can calm animals, while large doses can induce sleep. Its central effects are similar to barbiturates and have an anticonvulsant effect.

5. Anti-inflammatory: Asarum has a certain inhibitory effect on formaldehyde-induced and egg white-induced joint swelling in rats. Ethanol extracts, volatile oils, and other components have inhibitory effects on various Gram-positive bacteria, various bacilli, and various fungi. Its active ingredient is safrole.

6. Anti-nephritis: Intraperitoneal injection of asarinin can inhibit the excretion of urinary protein in renal injury in rats, improve serum biochemical indicators, and has an anti-nephritis effect.

7. Anti-tuberculous: Asarinin can be used as a synergist for pyrethroids, and its levorotatory form also has an anti-tuberculous effect.

Contraindications and Precautions for Using Xi Shen

1. Contraindication One: It is important to note that Xi Shen, also known as Asarum, has significant side effects, particularly toxicity to the kidneys. Therefore, individuals with kidney issues should avoid using this herbal medicine. Additionally, consuming excessive amounts, exceeding 20 grams per day, can lead to symptoms such as numbness in the fingers, nausea, vomiting, and even headaches. If untreated, these symptoms can progress to full-body spasms and altered mental states, potentially posing a life-threatening risk. Fortunately, these side effects gradually resolve after discontinuing the medication. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages to avoid any harmful effects.

2. Contraindication Two: Xi Shen, or Asarum, possesses mild toxicity. When consumed in doses not exceeding 3 grams per day, it is generally safe and without harmful effects. However, exceeding this dosage can result in anesthetic effects, manifesting as mental fogginess and even full-body spasms. It is imperative for patients to strictly adhere to the recommended daily intake of Asarum to avoid any signs of toxicity. Severe toxic reactions can be fatal and require immediate medical attention. Therefore, the use of this herbal medicine should always be guided by a healthcare professional, as the toxicity of Asarum can be significant. Failing to exercise caution in this regard can lead to irreversible damage to the body.