Ligusticum chuanxiong rhizome

Ingredient Profile

Chinese Name川芎
PinyinChuan Xiong
Latin NameChuanxiong Rhizoma

Modern Research Perspective

Ligusticum chuanxiong contains phthalides, phenolic acids, volatile oils, and other constituents. Cell and animal studies have examined vascular, platelet, inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective mechanisms. Experimental findings vary with chemotype, extraction, and dose.

Human studies frequently involve combined interventions or standardized extracts with differing composition. Potential bleeding and drug-interaction risks, dose, and long-term safety require attention; independent clinical efficacy remains incompletely established.

Traditional Function

In traditional Chinese medicine, Ligusticum chuanxiong Rhizome is pungent and warm. It is used to move qi and blood, dispel wind, and relieve pain, particularly in headache, menstrual, and blood-stasis-related patterns. Its warming and moving nature requires individualized pattern assessment.