Ku Shen

Sophora flavescens

Evidence: CFamily: Fabaceae

Pregnancy:AvoidNursing:AvoidChildren:Avoid

TCM heat-clearing and damp-drying herb — for itchy skin conditions (eczema, scabies), vaginal infections, and diarrhea from damp-heat. Used topically as wash for genital itching. Contains matrine and oxymatrine (anti-tumor research in China).

Herb Card

Safety Quick Reference

Pregnancyunsafe

Breastfeedingunsafe

Pediatricnot recommended

Contraindications: Pregnancy. Spleen/Stomach deficiency cold. Liver disease.

Interactions: Hepatotoxic drugs.

Drug & Medication Interactions

If you take any medications, review these interactions carefully.

Known Interactions

Hepatotoxic drugs.

Contraindications

Pregnancy. Spleen/Stomach deficiency cold. Liver disease.

Side Effects

GI upset, nausea (very bitter). Liver toxicity at high doses.

How to Prepare Ku Shen

Decoction (Roots, Bark & Seeds)Easy · 25-45 minutes

Equipment

Pot with lid (non-aluminum), Strainer, Measuring spoon, Stove

Instructions

1Place 1 tablespoon of dried root, bark, or seeds per 12 oz of cold water in a pot.
2Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
3Cover and simmer for 20-40 minutes. Harder roots (like Astragalus) may need up to 45 minutes.
4The liquid should reduce by about one-third.
5Strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing the herbs to extract all liquid.
6Drink 1-3 cups daily. Can be combined with honey or blended with an infusion.

Tips

• Use a non-aluminum pot — aluminum can react with plant compounds.
• Decoctions are necessary for roots, bark, seeds, and mushrooms — these are too tough for simple steeping.
• You can simmer mushrooms (Reishi, Chaga) for 2+ hours for stronger extraction.

Some roots are very potent — follow specific dosing guidelines for individual herbs. Avoid decocting herbs with volatile oils (peppermint, chamomile) as you will lose the beneficial compounds.

Refrigerate and use within 48-72 hours. Can be gently reheated.

Capsules (Powdered Herb)Moderate · 30-60 minutes per batch

Equipment

Herb grinder or pre-powdered herb, Empty vegetarian capsules (size 00 or 0), Capsule filling machine (optional but recommended), Small bowl, Scale (optional for precision)

Instructions

1If using whole dried herb, grind to a fine powder using a dedicated herb grinder.
2Pour the powdered herb into a small bowl or capsule filling tray.
3Separate the capsule halves. Fill the larger half with powder, tapping to pack gently.
4Press the smaller half onto the larger half to seal.
5A size 00 capsule holds approximately 500-700mg of powdered herb.
6Standard dosing varies by herb — typically 1-3 capsules, 2-3 times daily with food.

Herbal Salve / OintmentModerate · 2-4 hours (including infusion time)

Equipment

Double boiler or slow cooker, Herb-infused oil (or make your own), Beeswax, Small tins or jars, Strainer/cheesecloth, Measuring cup

Instructions

1START WITH INFUSED OIL: Place 1 cup dried herb in a jar, cover with 2 cups olive oil. Infuse for 2-4 weeks (or use the quick method: slow cooker on warm for 4-8 hours).
2Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth, squeezing thoroughly.
3In a double boiler, gently heat 1 cup of infused oil.
4Add 1 oz (about 2 tablespoons) of beeswax pellets per cup of oil. Stir until fully melted.
5Test consistency: dip a spoon in, let it cool 1 minute. Adjust — more wax = firmer, more oil = softer.
6Optionally add 10-15 drops of essential oil (Lavender, Tea Tree) once slightly cooled.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information on Healix Natural Solutions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a licensed healthcare provider.

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• A capsule filling machine makes the process much faster and more consistent.
• Pre-powdered herbs from reputable suppliers save significant effort.
• Store finished capsules in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Capsules bypass taste, which can be important — bitter taste stimulates digestion. For digestive herbs, teas or tinctures may be more effective. Always follow recommended dosing.

Store in airtight containers away from moisture. Use within 6-12 months for best potency.

7Pour into tins or jars immediately. Let cool completely before capping (2-3 hours).

8Apply externally to affected area as needed.

Tips

• Olive oil is the traditional choice, but coconut oil or jojoba oil also work well.
• For a softer balm, use less beeswax. For a lip balm consistency, use more.
• Calendula, Comfrey (leaf only), and Arnica make excellent healing salves.

FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Do not apply to deep wounds or broken skin unless the herb is specifically indicated for this. Patch test on a small area first.

Store in a cool, dark place. Properly made salves last 1-2 years.