Gǔ Suì Bǔ (骨碎补) — Drynaria Rhizome

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Modern research
5. Cautions and contraindications
6. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Gǔ Suì Bǔ (骨碎补), literally “mender of shattered bone”, is the rhizome of Drynaria fortunei. It belongs to the category of Yang-tonifying herbs in the Chinese Materia Medica and is the leading herb in Chinese herbal medicine for promoting fracture healing, supporting the bones and lower back, and stabilising loose teeth from Kidney deficiency.

I prescribe Gǔ Suì Bǔ as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Tonifies the Kidney and strengthens the bones
2. Promotes the healing of fractures and traumatic injury
3. Stimulates hair regrowth (topical and internal)

Indications

1. Fracture, bone bruise and traumatic injury — accelerates union and reduces residual pain
2. Lower back pain, weak knees, osteoporosis and Kidney-deficient Bi syndrome
3. Loose teeth and chronic toothache from Kidney deficiency
4. Chronic tinnitus and hearing loss from Kidney deficiency
5. Alopecia from Kidney deficiency (topical tincture and internal use)

4. Modern research

Drynaria contains flavonoids (naringin, neoeriocitrin), triterpenes and polysaccharides. Studies report stimulation of osteoblast activity, inhibition of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, accelerated callus formation in fracture models, and protection against aminoglycoside ototoxicity. Naringin is widely studied for osteoporosis and bone-implant integration.

5. Cautions and contraindications

Use with caution in patients with Yin-deficient heat. Avoid in pregnancy. Patients with confirmed osteoporosis should discuss any change in medication with their consultant.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM).

6. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Gǔ Suì Bǔ as part of tailored herbal formulas for fracture rehabilitation, lower back pain with weak knees, age-related bone weakening alongside conventional management, and chronic post-traumatic joint stiffness. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available.

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