Polygala tenuifolia (Seneca, Yuan Zhi)

Polygala tenuifolia – 20:1 concentrate

Known as the “will strengthener,” Polygala tenuifolia is thought to relax the soul and calm the heart — to ease restlessness and anxiety. Also known as Seneca and Chinese Senega, its adherents believe that it improves creative thinking, enhances dreaming, and enhances manifested ideas. The Chinese name Yuan Zhi translates to “high aspirations.” It is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is valued for its reputed ability to provide protection to the brain.

In TCM terms, Polygala tenuifolia balances the qi of the heart and kidneys, thereby enhancing emotional stability. The extracts appear to have antioxidant and immune system supporting properties. Preclinical evidence suggests that phytoconstituents of the root induce brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression.

Resources:

Traditional Chinese medicine and other traditional medicine systems suggest Polygala tenuifolia may support:

Serving Suggestion

Instructions: Add 1/2 teaspoon of extract to 8 oz of hot water, a cup of juice, or a memory and focus smoothie. Stir until dissolved. Drink 2 glasses a day.

Additional information

Traditional Uses >

The information herein is intended for educational purposes only. This information should not substitute for seeking responsible, professional medical care. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency. Not intended to be used for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or curing of any medical condition. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.

Polygala tenuifolia (Yuan Zhi, Seneca, and Chinese Senega) is one of the 50 fundamental herbs used in Chinese traditional medicine. It is thought that Polygala root can empower the sleep process, by discharging repressed emotions and relaxing the body. It is often recommended for geriatric concerns because of its ability to improve memory and protect against cognitive ailments. Buddhist monks use it to support meditation and focus. Beyond brain and mood support Polygala extract has been used for the treatment of inflammation of the throat, nose, and chest and for lung conditions including asthma, chronic bronchitis, whooping cough and emphysema. The root is considered antibacterial, cardiotonic, cerebrotonic, expectorant, haemolytic, hypotensive, sedative and tonic.

Other Names >

Chinese Senega, Herbe au Lait, Klapperschlangen, Laitier, Milkwort, Mountain Flax, Mountain Polygala, Plantula Marilandica, Polygala, Polygala de Sénéca, Polygala de Virginie, Polygala Glomerata, Polygala Japonica, Polygala Root, Polygala Reinii, Polygala Sénéca, Polygala Senega, Polygalae Radix, Polygala Tenuifolia, Polygala Virginiana, Racine de Polygala, Racine de Serpent à Sonnettes, Radix Polygalae, Rattlesnake Root, Senaga Snakeroot, Seneca, Sénéca, Seneca Snakeroot, Senega, Senega Officinalis, Senegae Radix, Senega Snakeroot, Seneka, Snakeroot, Snake Root, Yuan Zhi

Phytochemicals >

Flavonoids: 3′,4′-Dimethoxy-7-diglucosyl-O-methylenoxy-5-hydroxyl flavol

Glycosides: watterrose I, fallaxose C, and reniose A, tetrahydrocolumbamine

Saponins:tenuigenin, senegenin and senegenin III, polygalasaponin F (PGSF), tenuifoside A,and polygalasaponin, onjisaponin V, E, L, G, F, O, S, R, W, TH, TE, TF, TG, Gg, and Ng

Sterols: clionasterol, 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl clionasterol, chondrillasterol and 3β-O-β-pyranoglucosyl chondrillasterol

Terpenes: Yuanzhi-1

Possible Side Effects >

Do not use without supervision if you have a history of gastritis or peptic or duodenal ulcers. Prolonged use of this herb could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and gastrointestinal irritation. If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your physician before using any herbal supplement.