June 18, 2002

CODONOPSIS

Latin Name: Codonopsis tangshen

Alternate Names: Dang Shen, Dong Sum, Poor Man's Ginseng, Tang Shen

Family: CAMPANULACEAE

Parts Used: Root.

Properties: Adaptogen, Chi Tonic, Demulcent, Expectorant, Hypotensive, Nutritive, Stimulant, Yin Tonic.

Internal Uses: AIDS, Anemia, Anorexia, Asthma, Cancer, Chemotherapy Nausea, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Fatigue, Flatulence, Hyperacidity, Insomnia, Kidney Inflammation, Memory Loss, Poor Appetite, Stress, Tachycardia, Wheezing

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

It increases red blood cell count and blood sugar levels. It is a great herb for weak people as it slowly tonifies and improves lung chi, kidney chi and adrenal health. It is a tonic for both the spleen and stomach. It helps one resist disease. Mixed with Licorice root, it is used to treat anorexia.

Topical Uses: Teething

Topical Applications: The root can be given to babies when supervised to teethe on, as it is hard, sweet, and does not splinter.

Culinary uses: Soups, stews, cooked into grain and bean dishes. Wine.

Energetics: Sweet, Warm, Moist.

Chemical Constituents: Saponins, (codonopsine, codonopsinine), inulin, polysaccharides, tangshenoside.

Comments: Native to northeastern China, Dang Shen is often used as a less expensive alternative to Ginseng. It is somewhat milder than Ginseng; however, its effect is not as long-lasting. It is a delicious addition to soups and is traditionally given around the change of seasons or stressful times to help people acclimate to change and better resist infection.

The common name Dang Shen also includes the species Codonopsis lanceolate and Codonopsis, which are used interchangeably with Codonopsis tangshen.

-- Cheryl in KS (mac0328@planetkc.com), June 18, 2002

Answers

Here's a picture:

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), June 18, 2002.