Shan Dou Gen (山豆根) — Vietnamese Sophora Root
Shan Dou Gen is a strong Chinese herb for severe throat inflammation and swelling — peritonsillar abscess, quinsy and severe pharyngitis with high fever. It is also researched adjunctively in throat and lung cancer supportive care.
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Dosage
- Cautions and incompatibilities
- Key formulas
- Treatment at my clinic
1. Overview
Shan Dou Gen (山豆根) — Vietnamese Sophora Root (Sophora tonkinensis) — is a Chinese herb in the Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity category. I prescribe it as part of bespoke pharmaceutical-grade granule formulas from Sun Ten in Taiwan at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire and via online herbal consultations.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Shan Dou Gen |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 山豆根 |
| Latin name | Sophora tonkinensis |
| English name | Vietnamese Sophora Root |
| Nature | Cold |
| Flavour | Bitter |
| Channels entered | Lung, Stomach |
| Category | Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Clears Heat and resolves Fire Toxin
- Reduces throat swelling
- Kills worms (traditional)
Indications
- Severe sore throat with pus
- Peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)
- Toothache with Stomach Fire
- Adjunct in throat and lung cancer supportive care
4. Dosage
3–6g (do not exceed — hepatotoxic at higher doses)
5. Cautions and incompatibilities
- Hepatotoxic at high doses
- Contraindicated in Spleen-Cold
- Not for prolonged use
- Contraindicated in pregnancy
6. Key formulas
Shan Dou Gen is used in a range of bespoke prescriptions rather than a fixed classical formula in modern practice. Consult a qualified TCM herbalist for individual prescription.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Shan Dou Gen where its indications and TCM pattern match the patient’s presentation, always as part of a tailored formula. Return to the Chinese herbs directory or the Chinese herbal medicine main page.
