Coptis Root(Chinese Goldthread,Huang Lian,Coptis chinensis,Goldthread Root)

Coptis Root(Chinese Goldthread,Huang Lian,Coptis chinensis,Goldthread Root)

What is Coptis Root (Huang Lian)?

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is the dried rhizome of plants from the Ranunculaceae family, specifically Coptis chinensis Franch., Coptis deltoidea C.Y. Cheng et Hsiao, or Coptis teeta Wall..

Nature and Flavor: Bitter in taste, cold in nature.
Meridian Affiliation: Heart, Spleen, Stomach, Gallbladder, and Large Intestine meridians.

It has the functions of clearing heat, drying dampness, purging fire, and detoxifying. It is mainly used for treating damp-heat congestion, vomiting with sour regurgitation, diarrhea caused by damp-heat, high fever with delirium, irritability with insomnia, blood-heat induced vomiting of blood or nosebleeds, swelling and ulcers, redness and pain of the eyes, toothache, thirst caused by excessive internal heat, and externally for eczema, moist sores, and purulent ear discharge.

What are the benefits of Coptis Root (Huang Lian)?

Traditional Functions

Functions:

• Clears heat and dries dampness.
• Purges fire and detoxifies.

Indications:

• Damp-heat congestion, vomiting with sour regurgitation: This herb is extremely bitter and cold, and its ability to clear heat and dry dampness is stronger than that of Baikal Skullcap Root (Huang Qin). It excels at clearing damp-heat from the middle burner. It is used for treating chest and abdominal fullness, nausea and vomiting due to damp-heat obstructing the middle burner; vomiting due to stomach heat; hypochondriac distension and sour regurgitation due to liver fire attacking the stomach; and acid reflux caused by spleen and stomach deficiency with cold.
• Damp-heat diarrhea: This herb effectively clears damp-heat from the spleen, stomach, and large intestine, making it suitable for diarrhea accompanied by abdominal pain, tenesmus, and mucus or blood in the stools due to damp-heat.
• High fever with delirium, irritability, insomnia, blood-heat induced bleeding: Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is particularly good at clearing excessive Heart fire, which can cause delirium and irritability. It treats syndromes of exuberant heat in the triple burner, persistent high fever with irritability, and insomnia due to yin injury. It also addresses conditions like blood-heat forcing blood to move recklessly, leading to vomiting blood and nosebleeds.
• Swelling and ulcers, eye redness, and toothache: Being excellent at clearing heat and detoxifying, it is particularly effective for treating sores and ulcers, red and swollen eyes, pterygium, and severe toothache caused by stomach fire.
• Thirst (Xiaoke syndrome): It can clear stomach fire, thus being useful for “Xiaoke” syndrome characterized by intense hunger and thirst due to excessive stomach heat, as well as thirst due to kidney yin deficiency and Heart and Stomach fire.
• External treatments for eczema, moist sores, and purulent ear discharge: Its decoction or infusion can be applied externally as an ointment for eczema and moist sores, or as a wash for purulent ear infections. Its decoction can also be used as eye drops to relieve eye swelling and redness.

Modern Pharmacological Actions

• Antioxidant effect: Coptis Root (Huang Lian) exhibits strong antioxidant properties. Flavonoids and phenolic acids in it can scavenge free radicals, inhibit oxidative enzymes, enhance antioxidant enzyme activity, and protect cells from oxidative damage. These compounds are particularly effective in managing diseases related to oxidative stress, such as diabetes and atherosclerosis.
• Anti-inflammatory effect: It possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties, alleviating inflammation, pain, and swelling. Berberine and flavonoids are the main active components responsible, acting through inhibition of inflammatory mediator release and modulation of immune responses. It is effective against rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory diseases.
• Antitumor effect: Coptis Root (Huang Lian) shows anticancer activities, inhibiting tumor cell growth and metastasis. Its compounds like berberine and flavonoids interfere with cell cycle progression, induce apoptosis, and inhibit tumor angiogenesis, offering potential benefits in treating liver, lung, and gastric cancers.
• Antibacterial effect: The herb has broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Berberine, one of its key components, effectively inhibits pathogens like Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhi by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis, altering membrane permeability, and interfering with DNA replication.
• Cardiovascular protection: Coptis Root (Huang Lian) helps lower blood pressure, reduce blood lipids, and （helps maintain） arrhythmia. Its constituents such as berberine and flavonoids work by dilating blood vessels, inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme, and regulating cholesterol synthesis, thus offering protection against hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary heart disease.
• Other effects: Beyond these, it also exhibits antidepressant, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant effects, modulates immune function, combats allergies, and aids in treating various digestive system disorders.

Usage Methods

Internal: Decoction, 2-5 grams per dose.
External: Appropriate amounts for topical application.

Medicinal Diets Involving Coptis Root (Huang Lian)

• Coptis Root and Pulsatilla Congee:
  • Effects: Clears heat, detoxifies, and cools the blood. Mainly used for toxic dysentery.
  • Ingredients: 10g Coptis Root (Huang Lian), 5g Pulsatilla Root, 30g polished round-grain rice.
  • Preparation: Boil Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Pulsatilla Root in water, strain, and reserve the juice. Boil rice with fresh water, and when almost done, add the herb juice to complete the congee.
  • Usage: Consume three times daily while warm.
• Coptis Root and Donkey-Hide Gelatin Soup:
  • Effects: Clears heat and nourishes yin, suitable for syndromes of heat entering the nutrient level, consuming heart fluids, persistent fever, irritability, red tongue, and thin rapid pulse.
  • Ingredients: 1 egg yolk, 12g Coptis Root (Huang Lian), 3g Baikal Skullcap Root (Huang Qin), 9g donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao), 3g White Peony Root (Bai Shao).
  • Preparation: Decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian), Baikal Skullcap Root (Huang Qin), and White Peony Root first; strain and dissolve Ejiao into the decoction. Mix in the egg yolk and gently cook until ready.
  • Usage: Divide into three doses per day.
• Coptis Root and Licorice Juice:
  • Effects: Clears heat, dries dampness, detoxifies, and kills parasites. Used for whooping cough, oral ulcers, diarrhea, pulmonary tuberculosis, sore throat, and cough.
  • Ingredients: 5g Coptis Root (Huang Lian), 5g Licorice Root (Gan Cao), suitable amount of sugar.
  • Preparation: Steam Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Licorice Root in water for 5 minutes. Strain the juice, add sugar, mix evenly, and consume when slightly cooled.
  • Usage: Take three times daily while warm.

Precautions and Side Effects

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is cold in nature; long-term or excessive use may damage the spleen and stomach. It is contraindicated in patients with spleen-stomach deficiency cold.

• It can reduce the activity of digestive enzymes like trypsin and pepsin and should not be used together with these enzymes.
• Injections of its preparations are unstable when mixed with penicillin and should not be combined.
• Berberine, being strongly alkaline, may precipitate when combined with acidic medications.
• Reserpine may inhibit its antihypertensive effects.
• Propranolol hydrochloride also significantly inhibits its antihypertensive effects.
• Caution should be taken when using it with digitalis glycosides, as it may increase blood concentrations, risking toxicity.
• Combination with alkaloid-containing drugs like atropine, theophylline, or caffeine may enhance drug toxicity.
• It should not be combined with iodine preparations, sodium bicarbonate, or heavy metal-containing medicines like ferrous sulfate and magnesium sulfate.

Wild Coptis Root vs. Organic Coptis Root

What is Wild Coptis Root?

Wild Coptis Root (Huang Lian) grows naturally in deep mountains and forests without human intervention. It usually takes more than five years to mature, accumulating higher concentrations of active components like berberine. It is traditionally believed to possess stronger medicinal efficacy. Due to overharvesting, wild Coptis Root (Huang Lian) has become increasingly rare and is now listed as an endangered species. Although free from fertilizers and pesticides, it may be exposed to environmental pollution.

What is Organic Coptis Root?

Organic Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is cultivated according to international organic agriculture standards, prohibiting chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs. Certified by recognized agencies like China Organic Certification and ECOCERT in Europe, it follows strict ecological farming practices, ensuring no pesticide residues or heavy metal contamination. Compared to wild ones, it grows faster (typically 3–5 years), with stable quality and high safety, making it suitable for green, health-conscious consumers.

References on Coptis chinensis (Huanglian)

Coptis chinensis Phytochemistry and Constituents

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3. Wu J, Luo Y, Deng D, Su S, Li S. Coptisine from Coptis chinensis exerts diverse beneficial properties: A concise review. J Cell Mol Med. 2019;23(12):7946–7954.
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4. Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, et al. Discovery of Nine Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors from Coptis chinensis. Molecules. 2024;29(5):1234.
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5. Li S, Zhang B, Jiang D, Wei Y, Zhang N. Analysis of the Coptis chinensis genome reveals the diversification of berberine biosynthesis. Nat Commun. 2021;12(1):1–11.
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6. Zheng Y, Zhang M, Wu X, Tan R, Jiang H. Coptis Chinensis Franch: Substance Basis, Mechanism of Action and Quality Control Standard Revealed Based on the Q-marker Concept and New Strategy of Systemic Pharmacology and Biosynthesis Research. Curr Top Med Chem. 2024;24(23):2013-2032.
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7. Huang-Lian Jie-Du decoction: a review on phytochemical, pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profiles. Chin Med. 2019;14:57.
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Coptis chinensis Pharmacology and Bioactivities

8. Yang Y, Vong CT, Zeng S, et al. Tracking evidences of Coptis chinensis for the (used in traditional contexts) of inflammatory bowel disease from pharmacological, pharmacokinetic to clinical studies. J Ethnopharmacol. 2021;268:113573.
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9. Wu J, Luo Y, Deng D, Su S, Li S. Coptisine from Coptis chinensis exerts diverse beneficial properties: A concise review. J Cell Mol Med. 2019;23(12):7946–7954.
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10. Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, et al. Discovery of Nine Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors from Coptis chinensis. Molecules. 2024;29(5):1234.
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11. Therapeutic potential of Coptis chinensis for arthritis with underlying mechanisms. Front Pharmacol. 2023;14:10450980.
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12. Effect of Coptis chinensis on Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Biomed Res Int. 2020;2020:9754357.
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13. A network pharmacology method explores the molecular mechanism of Coptis chinensis for the (used in traditional contexts) of Alzheimer’s disease. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024;103(5):e37103.
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14. Zhao J, Jin H, Li Y, et al. The anti-cholestatic effects of Coptis chinensis Franch. alone and combined with Tetradium ruticarpum: pharmacological mechanisms explored via network pharmacology and experimental validation. Front Pharmacol. 2024;15:1372527.
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20. Yin J, Xing H, Ye J. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism. 2008;57(5):712–717.
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24. Kong WJ, Zhang H, Song DQ, et al. Berberine reduces insulin resistance through protein kinase C-dependent upregulation of insulin receptor expression. Metabolism. 2009;58(1):109–119.
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Coptis chinensis Clinical and Applied Studies

28. Yin J, Xing H, Ye J. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism. 2008;57(5):712-717.
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29. Zhang Y, Li X, Zou D, et al. Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2008;93(7):2559-2565.
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36. Yan F, Wang L, Shi Y, et al. Berberine promotes recovery of colitis and inhibits inflammatory responses by inducing an M2 macrophage phenotype in mice. Biomed Pharmacother. 2018;105: 1220-1229.
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Compendium of Chinese Materia Medica (Zhong Hua Ben Cao): Coptis (Huang Lian)

Alternate Names

Wang Lian, Zhi Lian

Sources

Originating from Shen Nong’s Classic of Materia Medica (Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing).

1. Supplementary Records (Bie Lu): “Coptis grows in the valleys and rivers of Wuyang and the regions of Shu and Mount Tai. Harvested in February and August.”

2. Tao Hongjing: “The Coptis from the western regions today has a lighter color and is hollow inside, inferior to that from Dongyang and Xin’an counties, which are considered the best. Those from Linhai counties are not ideal. When used, it should be wrapped in cloth to remove the fuzz, resembling strings of beads. It is often used to treat diarrhea and thirst.”

3. Materia Medica of the Tang Dynasty (Tang Ben Cao): “The Coptis from the Shu roads has thick stems and intense bitter taste, being best for relieving thirst; the one from Jiangdong has bead-like joints and excels in treating dysentery. Currently, that from Lizhou is even superior.”

4. Materia Medica in Four Tones (Si Sheng Ben Cao): “The Coptis produced in Xuanzhou today is excellent, followed by those from Dongyang, Shezhou, and Chuzhou.”

Origin

Herbal Source: The rhizomes of plants from the Ranunculaceae family, including Coptis, Coptis with triangular leaves, or Yunnan Coptis.

Latin Botanical Names:

• Coptis chinensis Franch. [C. teeta Wall. var. chinensis Finet et Gagnep.]
• Coptis deltoidea C.Y. Cheng et Hsiao
• Coptis teetoides C.Y. Cheng

Harvesting and Storage

Coptis is harvested 5–6 years after planting, between October and November. It is pulled out together with its roots using a Coptis fork, soil is shaken off, fine roots and leaves are cut off, and rhizomes are dried on a special platform called “Huanglian Kang”. During drying, the rhizomes are frequently turned and beaten to remove the drying soil. When dried to about 50-60% and the rhizomes are categorized into 3-4 grades by size, they are further finely dried until the fracture appears straw-colored. Afterward, they are packed into bamboo cages, beaten to remove residual soil and roots, resulting in finished Coptis.

Yield: 1,500–2,250 kg of dried Coptis per hectare.

Ecological Habitat and Distribution

Ecological Environment:

• Found in dense forests or shady valleys at altitudes of 1,000–2,000 meters, wild or cultivated.
• Cultivated in mountainous forests between 1,600–2,200 meters, notably in Emei and Hongya, Sichuan Province.
• Found under moist, high-altitude forest shades at elevations between 1,500–2,300 meters, either wild or cultivated.

Distribution:

• Distributed across Shaanxi, Hubei, Hunan, Sichuan, Guizhou, and eastern Sichuan provinces in China.
• Found in northwestern Yunnan and southeastern Tibet. Large-scale cultivation exists in western Hubei and southern Shaanxi.

Botanical Description

Coptis (Huang Lian): A perennial herb. Rhizomes yellow and often branched, densely covered with numerous fine roots. Leaves all basal; petioles 5–12(–16) cm long; leaf blades papery and ovate-triangular, up to 10 cm wide, 3-lobed; central lobe stalked, ovate-rhombic, 3–8 cm long and 2–4 cm wide, acutely pointed, pinnately deeply lobed with sharp serrations. Lateral lobes asymmetrically 2-lobed, surfaces sparsely hairy along veins.

Scapes 1–2, 12–25 cm tall, dichotomously branched, bearing 3– flowers. Involucral bracts usually 3, lanceolate and pinnately lobed; smaller bracts round. Sepals 5, yellow-green, narrowly ovate, 9–12.5 mm long. Petals linear or linear-lanceolate, 5–7 mm long with nectar glands. Numerous stamens, outer ones slightly shorter than or equal to petals. Carpels 8–12, free with short stalks. Follicles 6–12, 6–8 mm long with slender stalks. Seeds 7–8, oblong, approximately 2 mm long, 0.8 mm wide, brown. Flowering period: February–April. Fruiting period: March–June.

Coptis with Triangular Leaves: Rhizomes yellow, sparsely branched, distinct nodes, numerous fine roots, creeping horizontal stems. Leaves ovate, up to 15 cm wide, 3-lobed; central lobe triangular-ovate, 3–12 cm long and 3–10 cm wide, deeply pinnately lobed with closely connected lobes. Petals lanceolate. Stamens about half as long as petals.

Yunnan Coptis: Rhizomes yellow, dense nodes, few branches, many fine roots. Leaves ovate-triangular, 6–12 cm long and 5–9 cm wide, 3-lobed; central lobe ovate-rhombic with a long tapering apex, pinnately deeply lobed with wide spacing between lobes up to 1.5 cm. Petals spatulate to spoon-shaped with blunt apexes.

Cultivation

Biological Characteristics

Coptis thrives in cool, humid environments, heavily cultivated at altitudes of 1,200–1,800 meters in eastern Sichuan and western Hubei. The growing areas are characterized by frequent rain and fog, annual mean temperature around 10°C, July average 21°C, and January average –3 to –4°C. Winter snowfall allows overwintering while maintaining evergreen foliage. Annual rainfall is 1,300–1,700 mm, with 90% relative humidity. Prefers highly fertile soil: sandy loam rich in organic matter on the surface and clay loam beneath, providing good moisture and nutrient retention. Ideal soil pH around 5.5 (acidic to slightly acidic). A shade-loving plant, it utilizes indirect forest sunlight while avoiding direct strong sunlight.

Cultivation Techniques

Propagation is by seeds, which require post-embryonic development. Seeds are harvested in early May and stored layered with moist sand in 20 cm deep pits under shaded shelters. After experiencing temperature changes, embryos gradually develop. When seeds begin to split in October–November, they are sown on raised beds at a rate of 22.5–37.5 kg per hectare and covered with manure. Seedlings emerge in early March, and weeds are removed. From May to June, fast-acting nitrogen fertilizers are applied to stimulate seedling growth. In winter, compost and wood ash are applied to aid overwintering. Traditional methods use 1.2-meter high shade shelters to provide 70% shading. In the third year after sowing, when seedlings have 4–6 true leaves, they are transplanted at 10 cm × 10 cm spacing. About 750,000–900,000 plants per hectare are achieved.

Recent methods integrate corn intercropping with forest cultivation: corn seedlings are raised under plastic shelters in early spring, transplanted beside high ridges, and harvested to weave shade for Coptis in winter. In 4–5 years, shrub cover naturally develops, creating sufficient shading for Coptis without further corn planting.

Field Management

Immediately after transplanting, small amounts of manure and burned soil are applied (“blade fertilizer”). Fertilizer is applied three times a year: early spring, after seed harvest in summer, and winter. Spring and summer use fast-acting fertilizers (nitrogen and phosphorus), winter uses manure. After fertilization, soil is hilled around the plants. During the first two years, weeds are removed 4–5 times per year; during the fourth and fifth years, 3 times per year. Shade structures are removed after seed harvesting in the first year to expose plants to sunlight and encourage rhizome development.

Pest and Disease Control

Main diseases include powdery mildew, which can be controlled by reducing shade and applying lime-sulfur mixture. Pests include wireworms and mole crickets, managed by bait traps. In early spring, deer and pheasants may damage flower stalks and seeds, requiring fencing and manual control.

Characteristics

1. Characteristic Identification

Wei Lian: The rhizomes are mostly clustered and branched, twisted and thick, resembling inverted chicken claws, thus commonly referred to as “Chicken Claw Coptis.” Single branches are cylindrical, 3–6 cm long, 2–8 mm in diameter. The surface is grayish-yellow or yellowish-brown, with reddish-brown areas where the outer skin has peeled off. The surface is rough, with irregular nodular protrusions, fibrous roots, and their remnants. Some internodes are smooth like stems, known as “Guoqiao” (crossing bridge). The upper part often retains brownish scales and remnants of stems or petioles. The texture is hard; the fracture surface is irregular. The cortex is orange-red or dark brown, the xylem is bright yellow or orange-yellow, and the pith is reddish-brown, sometimes hollow. It has a slight odor and an extremely bitter taste.

Ya Lian: Mostly single branches, slightly cylindrical, slightly curved, 4–8 cm long, 5–10 mm in diameter. The “Guoqiao” internodes are relatively long. Few remnants of stems are present at the tip.

Yun Lian: Mostly single branches, curved like hooks, smaller in size, 2–5 cm long, 2–4 mm in diameter.

The best quality is characterized by thick, solid, dry bodies with minimal remaining petiole or fibrous roots, firm texture, and a red-yellow fracture surface.

2. Microscopic Identification

Wei Lian: Scale leaf tissues are often shed. The cork layer consists of several rows of cork cells. The cortex is wide, with visible root traces and vascular bundles of leaf traces. Sclereids are yellow, scattered singly or in small clusters. The vascular bundles are collateral, arranged discontinuously in a ring, with indistinct cambium between the bundles. The outer side of the phloem contains fiber bundles, varying in size from several to dozens or even hundreds of fibers; some accompanied by yellow sclereids. The xylem is yellow and fully lignified; xylem fibers are well-developed. Occasionally, individual or clustered sclereids are found among the parenchyma cells in the pith. Parenchyma cells contain starch granules.

Ya Lian: Similar to Wei Lian, but the pith contains numerous sclereids.

Yun Lian: No sclereids or phloem fibers are present.

3. Powder Characteristics

Wei Lian: Powder appears yellow-brown or yellow.

• Sclereids are bright yellow, nearly round, square, polygonal, or slightly elongated; diameter 25–64 μm, length up to 102 μm; walls 9–28 μm thick; conspicuous pits and layered striations are visible.
• Xylem fibers are numerous, yellow, slender; diameter 10–13 μm; walls slightly thickened, lignified, with sparse pits.
• Phloem fibers are bright yellow, spindle-shaped or fusiform, 136–185 μm long, 25–40 μm in diameter; walls relatively thick; pits sparse.
• Vessels mainly with pitted and spiral thickenings, 8–20 μm in diameter.
• Starch granules mostly single, long oval, kidney-shaped, subglobular, or ovoid, 1–10 μm in diameter; compound starch granules are rare, composed of 2–4 units.
• Epidermal cells of scale leaves appear greenish-yellow or yellowish-brown, slightly rectangular, with wavy-curved walls.

Ya Lian: Similar to Wei Lian, with major features including more abundant sclereids, bright yellow in color, elongated oval, square, rectangular, or irregularly strip-shaped; 35–252 μm long, 23–102 μm in diameter; wall thickness 7–26 μm; fine and distinct striations.

Yun Lian: No sclereids present.

Toxicity

The therapeutic dose of berberine is relatively (generally well-tolerated), with very few side effects. Long-term administration has not shown any noticeable adverse reactions. A single oral dose of 2.0 g of berberine or cumulative intake of 100 g of powdered Coptis showed no adverse effects. Animal experiments have demonstrated very mild toxicity; oral administration in mice is not easily lethal. The minimum lethal dose via intraperitoneal injection is 0.01 g/kg, and the half-lethal dose has been measured at 0.066 g/kg (for Phellodendron and Coptis, the values are 0.52 g/kg and 0.73 g/kg, respectively). In cats, oral administration of 0.1 g/kg can cause systemic suppression and vomiting, leading to death within 8–10 days, with respiratory stimulation turning to paralysis and convulsions occurring prior to death.

The half-lethal dose of intraperitoneally injected berberine sulfate in mice is 24.3 mg/kg. For tetrahydroberberine, the half-lethal doses via intragastric administration, subcutaneous injection, and intravenous injection in mice are 940 mg/kg, 790 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg, respectively. The half-lethal dose of hydrochloric berberine via intraperitoneal injection is 24.3 mg/kg.

The most serious toxic effect of berberine is cardiac toxicity. In clinical cases, it may cause acute cardiogenic cerebral hypoxia syndrome. A drip infusion of 100 mg berberine in glucose solution has led to symptoms such as dizziness, dyspnea, arrhythmia, circulatory and respiratory arrest, and there have been reports of fatalities. Allergic reactions are relatively common. Intramuscular injection of berberine solution (0.1%) at doses of 2–4 ml can cause systemic itching, urticaria, fever, palpitations, joint pain, rapid breathing, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, and severe cases may result in hypotension and anaphylactic shock.

Chemical Constituents

• Coptis (Huang Lian): The rhizomes contain 5.56%–7.25% of berberine, along with coptisine, epiberberine, berberrubine, palmatine, columbamine, jatrorrhizine, worenine, magnoflorine, ferulic acid, obakunone, and obakulactone.
• Coptis deltoidea (Triangular-leaf Coptis): The rhizomes contain epiberberine, berberine, coptisine, palmatine, worenine, jatrorrhizine, and magnoflorine.
• Coptis teetoides (Yunnan Coptis): The rhizomes contain berberine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, worenine, magnoflorine, and coptisine.

Pharmacological Effects

1. Antibacterial Activity

The 100% concentrated decoction of Coptis, using the plate method, shows strong inhibitory effects against seven Gram-negative bacteria (Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi, Vibrio cholerae, Escherichia coli, Proteus species) and five Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, alpha-hemolytic streptococcus, beta-hemolytic streptococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Bordetella pertussis).

Using the tube dilution method, the inhibitory concentration ratios for the decoction are as follows:

• 1:160 against Shigella sonnei
• 1:1280 against Shigella flexneri
• 1:2560 against Shigella dysenteriae
• 1:5120 against Shigella shigae
• 1:160 against Salmonella typhi
• 1:128 against Yersinia pestis
• 1:160 and 1:1280 against alpha- and beta-hemolytic streptococci
• 1:640 against Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Streptococcus pneumoniae
• 1:2560 against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H37 strain)

The 1:640 water decoction inhibits Bacillus anthracis; 1:320 inhibits Staphylococcus aureus and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae; 1:20 inhibits Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The 100% decoction and 20% tincture of Coptis, tested via plate filter paper method or permeation method, significantly inhibit Shigella species, Staphylococcus aureus, and streptococci. Additionally, a 1:1–1:128 concentration of the decoction inhibits Bordetella pertussis.

Berberine at 1:4000 concentration inhibits Mycobacterium tuberculosis and can delay the progression of experimental tuberculosis in mice when administered by gavage at doses of 1.5–2.5 g/kg for 21–28 days. It inhibits various bacteria at different concentrations (e.g., 1:32000 for hemolytic streptococcus, 1:16000 for Staphylococcus aureus, etc.).

Research indicates that several amino acids (aspartic acid, histidine, glycine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan) and vitamins (niacin, nicotinamide, para-aminobenzoic acid, vitamin B6), as well as adenosine and uracil, can antagonize the antibacterial effects of berberine. Thus, berberine’s antibacterial action may involve interference with bacterial metabolic processes.

Furthermore, 1 g/ml decoction and alcohol extracts tested via plate perforation method showed inhibitory effects on Neisseria meningitidis.

2. Antifungal Activity

A 15% concentration of Coptis decoction inhibits Microsporum lanosum, its Mongolian variant, and Trichophyton ferrugineum. An 8% concentration inhibits Microsporum canis, Epidermophyton floccosum, and Trichophyton violaceum. Higher concentrations inhibit other dermatophytes and Candida albicans:

• 10% for Trichophyton concentricum
• 20% for Trichophyton rubrum
• 25% for Trichophyton mentagrophytes
• 35% for Candida albicans

An aqueous 1:3 extract also inhibits various fungi including Trichophyton violaceum, Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum lanosum, Epidermophyton inguinale, and others.

3. Antiviral Activity

In chicken embryo experiments, 0.1 ml of 50% Coptis decoction per egg inhibited influenza viruses PR8 strain, Influenza A virus 56-S8, FM1 strain, Influenza B Lee strain, and Type C virus 1233 strain. The decoction at 25%–100% concentrations inhibited hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA. Additionally, 0.5 mg of berberine per egg reduced mortality in chicken embryos infected with Chlamydia trachomatis and inhibited the formation of elementary bodies.

4. Anti-amoebic Activity

In vitro, Coptis decoction at 1:20–1:80 concentrations and berberine at 1:5000–1:10000 concentrations showed anti-amoebic effects. In vivo, oral administration of 1.3 g/kg decoction or 50 mg/kg berberine effectively killed Entamoeba histolytica implanted in rat ceca.

5. Anti-inflammatory and Antidiarrheal Effects

Methanol extracts of Coptis at 400 μg per embryo inhibited granuloma formation in chick embryo tests. Berberine hydrochloride at 50 mg/kg orally inhibited carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and cotton pellet-induced granuloma.

At 1×10⁻⁴ concentration, berberine inhibited leukotriene B4 production in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes by 43.7±5.6%.

Berberine administered at 40.80 mg/kg counteracted diarrhea induced by castor oil or senna leaf in mice; at 30.60 mg/kg it reduced peritoneal fluid accumulation induced by acetic acid; at 20.50 mg/kg subcutaneously it suppressed histamine-induced capillary permeability increases in rats; and at 4.8 mg/kg subcutaneously it reduced xylene-induced ear swelling in mice, suggesting anti-inflammatory mechanisms are involved in its antidiarrheal effects.

Moreover, 0.06–20 mg/kg of berberine delayed and reduced symptoms of diarrhea caused by Ipomoea turpethum root in dogs, but was ineffective against magnesium sulfate-induced diarrhea in rats. Berberine at 10 mg/kg reduced intestinal motility in mice and inhibited cholera toxin-induced diarrhea in rabbits and rats. Berberine also promoted Na⁺ and Cl⁻ absorption in the intestines and inhibited water and electrolyte secretion induced by E. coli toxin, similar to the effects of alpha-receptor agonists, opiates, and antihistamines.

6. Effects on the Cardiovascular System

• 6.1 Intravenous injection of berberine at a dosage of 3–5 mg/kg resulted in a decrease in blood pressure in anesthetized dogs. However, if the animals were pretreated with ergotamine, the hypotensive effect of berberine could be reversed. Intravenous injection of berberine sulfate at 0.1–6.0 mg/kg also caused a reduction in blood pressure in anesthetized dogs, cats, and rats. Berberine at a concentration of 2–10 μg/ml was found to inhibit the contraction of rabbit pulmonary artery strips induced by norepinephrine. At a concentration of 0.1%, 5 ml of berberine administered intravenously enhanced the blood pressure-lowering effect induced by acetylcholine in anesthetized dogs. Additionally, berberine at concentrations between 2×10⁻⁶ and 2×10⁻⁵ augmented the contraction of frog rectus abdominis muscle in response to acetylcholine, while concentrations above 10⁻⁴ antagonized acetylcholine’s effects. This suggests that berberine can inhibit cholinesterase, thereby enhancing acetylcholine activity, although berberine itself can also directly counteract acetylcholine action. In vitro experiments showed that both berberine and Coptisine inhibited acetylcholinesterase in rat brains, with IC₅₀ values of 9.8×10⁻⁷ for berberine and 5.8×10⁻⁶ for Coptisine. Berberine blocked the contraction of isolated rabbit aortic strips induced by phenylephrine, with an IC₅₀ of 30 μM, but did not affect contractions induced by histamine, serotonin (5-HT), or potassium chloride (KCl), nor did it impact the basal tone of vascular strips, indicating selective α-adrenergic receptor blockade. Berberine at 0.3 and 1.3 μmol/L caused parallel rightward shifts in the dose-response curves of deoxyepinephrine in rat anococcygeus muscle and rabbit aorta without reducing maximal response, confirming that berberine acts as a competitive α-receptor antagonist.

 

• 6.2 Berberine at 10 μmol/L and yohimbine at 1 mol/L significantly weakened clonidine-induced inhibition of excitation in the electrically stimulated vas deferens of rats, shifting the cumulative dose-response curve of clonidine to the right without changing the maximum response, with PA₂ values of 5.3 and 7.8, respectively. Berberine at 1 μmol/L and prazosin at 10 μmol/L also shifted the phenylephrine dose-response curve in the rat anococcygeus muscle to the right, without altering the maximum effect, with PA₂ values of 6.4 and 8.5, respectively, indicating that berberine blocks both α₁- and α₂-adrenergic receptors, with a selectivity ratio (α₁/α₂) of 8. Berberine at 5.5 μmol/L shifted the dose-response curve for acetylcholine-induced contraction of the rat anococcygeus muscle to the right, reducing the maximal response by 83.5% and 38.4%. Berberine at 5 μmol/L also antagonized serotonin (5-HT)-induced contractions at 10 μmol/L, histamine-induced contractions at 1 mmol/L, and isoproterenol-induced contractions, suggesting that berberine exerts antagonistic effects on multiple receptor types in the rat anococcygeus muscle.

 

• 6.3 Intraperitoneal injection of berberine conferred protective effects against ventricular fibrillation induced by chloroform (CHCl₃) in mice, with an effective median dose (ED₅₀) of 14.91 ± 0.0104 mg/kg. Intravenous injection of berberine at 15 mg/kg also provided protection against ventricular fibrillation induced by aconitine in rats but was ineffective against arrhythmias induced by ouabain. Intravenous injection of berberine at 1 mg/kg in conscious rats reduced blood pressure, left ventricular pressure, and end-diastolic pressure, with the degree of decrease ranked as diastolic pressure > systolic pressure > left ventricular pressure. A reflexive increase in heart rate was observed, followed by a slow and sustained decrease. Despite reductions in afterload and heart rate, no decrease was observed in parameters such as maximal rates of pressure change (±dp/dtmax) or force-velocity loops (LVP and its slope), which even showed slight enhancement, suggesting that berberine strengthens myocardial contractility. Thus, its antihypertensive effect is primarily mediated by reductions in heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance. Intravenous injection of berberine at an unspecified dose enhanced the threshold for electrically induced ventricular fibrillation in anesthetized cats. Berberine at concentrations of 6–120 μmol/L prolonged action potential duration (APD) and effective refractory period (ERP) in isolated guinea pig papillary muscles, accompanied by positive inotropic effects possibly related to increased transmembrane Ca²⁺ influx.

 

• 6.4 Berberine at 10⁻⁴ mol/L markedly enhanced contractility in isolated left atria of guinea pigs, prolonged the functional refractory period (FRP), and reduced the threshold concentration for adrenaline-induced automaticity. It also enhanced contractility in the right atrium while slowing spontaneous beating rates and antagonized the positive chronotropic effect of adrenaline without affecting its positive inotropic action. Intravenous injection of berberine in dogs at a loading dose of 1 mg/kg, followed by continuous infusion at 0.2 mg/kg/min, prolonged both ventricular and atrial ERP and FRP and increased the threshold for electrically induced ventricular fibrillation. Berberine at concentrations of 0.1–30 μmol/L reduced APA, Vmax, maximum diastolic potential (MDP), and spontaneous firing rates in rabbit sinoatrial (SA) and atrioventricular (AV) node cells in a dose-dependent manner while prolonging APD₅₀, APD₉₅, and ERP. It also suppressed sinoatrial node function, prolonging the sinus cycle length, sinus node recovery time, and corrected sinus node recovery time. Berberine’s inhibitory effects on the sinus node were not reversed by atropine, α₂-antagonist BHT-920, or α₁-agonist phenylephrine, but could be reversed by norepinephrine. Even in calcium-free solutions, berberine still inhibited sinoatrial node function, suggesting that its antiarrhythmic action may involve β-receptors and calcium influx, particularly in slow-response myocardial cells.

 

• 6.5 Berberine at 10 μmol/L shortened the SC (sinoatrial cell to crista terminalis cell action potential) and CH (crista terminalis cell to His bundle action potential) conduction intervals in isolated rabbit hearts, enhanced membrane excitability, and inhibited multiple action potential parameters, with a stronger effect on the sinoatrial cells. In vivo, intravenous injection of berberine at 10 mg/kg shortened A-H (atrial to His bundle) and H-V (His bundle to ventricle) conduction times in rabbits, while prolonging the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and the atrioventricular nodal functional refractory period (AVNFRP). This indicates that berberine facilitates intra-atrial and intraventricular conduction. However, at 15 mg/kg intravenous injection, severe cardiac suppression was observed. Berberine at 5–100 μmol/L lowered the Vmax of action potentials and prolonged APD₉₀ in isolated guinea pig right ventricular papillary muscles. Intravenous injection of 4 mg/kg of berberine in rats caused mild reductions in blood pressure, LVSP, and dp/dtmax, while slightly increasing LVEDP and t-dp/dtmax, suggesting initial myocardial depression, followed by gradual improvement after five minutes. Berberine at 0.1–300 μmol/L exerted positive inotropic effects on isolated guinea pig atrial and papillary muscles, prolonged the myocardial FRP, and inhibited adrenaline-induced abnormal automaticity. Intravenous injection of berberine at 5 mg/kg prolonged the QTc interval on ECGs of dogs with chronic myocardial infarction and extended the refractory periods of the right ventricle (RERP), normal left ventricular areas (NERP), and infarcted left ventricular areas (IERP), reducing ERP dispersion and suppressing programmed stimulation-induced ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.

 

• 6.6 Moreover, berberine was shown to （helps maintain） spontaneous ventricular fibrillation following acute myocardial ischemia post-infarction, providing direct evidence of its anti-fibrillatory effect. Continuous intravenous infusion of 1% berberine hydrochloride at 10 ml/kg per hour in dogs initially increased LVSP and dp/dtmax while shortening the R-dp/dtmax interval. However, with continued infusion, LVSP and dp/dtmax decreased, R-dp/dtmax prolonged, and ultimately cardiac contractility weakened, leading to hypotension and death, indicating that berberine has a biphasic effect: cardiac stimulation at low doses and cardiac depression at high doses. In isolated guinea pig ventricular papillary muscles, berberine at 72 and 365 μmol/L initially promoted extracellular Ca²⁺ influx, increasing the amplitude of slow inward current (Iₛᵢ), but with prolonged exposure, it blocked calcium channels, reduced Ca²⁺ influx, decreased Iₛᵢ, and led to reduced myocardial contractility. This mechanism may explain why intravenous berberine can cause myocardial suppression and even fatality in clinical settings.

7. Antipyretic Effect

An intravenous injection of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) extract at 0.5 mg/kg demonstrated an antipyretic effect against pyrogen-induced fever in rabbits. It was also observed to lower the cAMP concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting that the antipyretic effect is associated with the suppression of central cAMP production.

8. Hypoglycemic Effect

Oral administration of a Coptis Root (Huang Lian) decoction at doses ranging from 1.0 to 10.0 g/kg reduced blood glucose levels in normal mice. Berberine at 50 mg/kg, administered orally for 1 to 7 days, decreased blood glucose levels in normal mice, alloxan-induced diabetic mice, and spontaneously diabetic mice. It also counteracted the hyperglycemia induced by intraperitoneal injection of glucose or adrenaline. Berberine at 50 mg/kg did not affect insulin secretion or alter the number and affinity of insulin receptors on hepatic plasma membranes in mice. Its hypoglycemic effect is likely mediated through post-receptor mechanisms. Berberine can inhibit gluconeogenesis using alanine as a substrate, and its hypoglycemic action is closely associated with an increase in blood lactate levels, indicating that berberine may reduce blood glucose by inhibiting gluconeogenesis or promoting glycolysis.

9. Hypolipidemic Effect

Oral administration of 2 ml of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) aqueous extract daily for seven weeks significantly reduced serum cholesterol levels in rabbits fed a cholesterol-rich diet. Similarly, berberine at 50 mg/kg given orally for seven consecutive days lowered serum cholesterol levels in mice fed a high-cholesterol emulsion.

10. Antioxidant Effect

Mixing 0.5 ml of 5% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) decoction with 0.6 ml of 5% rat brain homogenate significantly reduced the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) in vitro. Furthermore, oral administration of 4–5 ml of 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) decoction twice daily markedly reduced MDA content in the pancreas and liver of rats treated with alloxan, suggesting a potent antioxidant effect.

11. Effects on the Hematological System

In vitro studies showed that berberine sulfate at concentrations of 1–3 mg/ml could reduce the anticoagulant activity of heparin (50 u/ml) on human and canine blood. However, when used alone at 10 mg/ml, berberine exhibited intrinsic anticoagulant properties. Berberine at 40–200 μg/ml inhibited adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation in rabbits in a dose-dependent manner, with an IC₅₀ of 120 μg/ml. Berberine also suppressed ATP release and platelet aggregation induced by ADP, collagen, arachidonic acid, and calcium ionophore A23187, with respective IC₅₀ values as follows:

• ADP-induced aggregation and release: 0.19 mmol/L and 0.6 mmol/L
• Collagen-induced aggregation and release: 0.12 mmol/L and 0.08 mmol/L
• Arachidonic acid-induced aggregation and release: 0.76 mmol/L and 0.43 mmol/L
• A23187-induced aggregation and release: 2.36 mmol/L and 0.85 mmol/L

The mechanism may involve the inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism, intracellular Ca²⁺ elevation, and/or increased cAMP levels. At a concentration of 0.5 mol/L, berberine significantly inhibited the release of thromboxane A₂ (TXA₂) induced by collagen, ADP, and arachidonic acid in rabbit platelets in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, intravenous injection of berberine at 25 mg/kg reduced plasma prostacyclin (PGI₂) levels after 60 minutes, confirming that berberine can inhibit arachidonic acid release and metabolism from platelet membrane phospholipids.

12. Other Effects

In vitro studies showed that berberine at a concentration of 1×10⁻⁴ mol/L inhibited leukotriene B4 production induced by calcium ionophore A23187 in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Berberine hydrochloride at 4.40 μg/ml also inhibited DNA, RNA, protein, and lipid synthesis in mouse sarcoma 180 (S180) cells and suppressed glucose oxidation into CO₂. However, in vivo administration (10 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection) exhibited minimal inhibition of tumor DNA and protein synthesis in mice. Doses of 2.5–20 mg/kg intraperitoneally also failed to suppress S180 tumor growth, likely due to glucose concentration interference. It was found that adding glucose at concentrations of 0.01–2.68 mg/ml to the culture medium could antagonize the inhibitory effect of berberine on protein synthesis, suggesting competitive uptake between glucose and berberine by S180 cells.

Subcutaneous injection of berberine at 30 or 60 mg/kg prolonged survival time in mice under normobaric hypoxia and counteracted the reduced hypoxia tolerance caused by isoproterenol or phentolamine. Oral administration of 30 or 60 mg/kg berberine, or subcutaneous injection of 4.8 mg/kg, extended the duration of mouth-opening movements in decapitated mice and improved survival times in mice poisoned with KCN (4 mg/kg intravenous) or NaNO₂ (800 mg/kg intraperitoneal). Oral administration of berberine at 40 or 80 mg/kg also extended survival times in mice intoxicated with lidocaine (150 mg/kg intraperitoneal).

Furthermore, berberine hydrochloride at 1.5 mg/kg exhibited a choleretic effect in dogs and showed protective effects against ulcers.

Processing Methods

Coptis Root (Huang Lian): Remove impurities, wash off mud and sand, moisten thoroughly, slice, and dry in the shade.

Fried Coptis Root: Stir-fry the sliced Coptis Root (Huang Lian) over low heat until the surface turns dark yellow, then remove and allow to cool.

Ginger-Processed Coptis Root: Extract juice from fresh ginger, mix it with an appropriate amount of hot water, and spray evenly onto the Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices. After absorption, stir-fry over low heat until the surface becomes dark yellow, then remove and cool. (For every 100 jin of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices, use 12 jin 8 liang of fresh ginger.)

Evodia-Processed Coptis Root: First, decoct Evodia Fruit (Wu Zhu Yu) with an appropriate amount of water, remove the residue, then mix the Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices into the decoction until fully absorbed. Stir-fry gently over low heat until slightly dry, then remove and dry in the shade. (For every 100 jin of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices, use 6 jin 4 liang of Evodia Fruit (Wu Zhu Yu).)

Wine-Processed Coptis Root: Mix Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices evenly with yellow rice wine, cover for a short period, then stir-fry over low heat until the surface turns dark yellow. Remove and cool. (For every 100 jin of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) slices, use 12 jin 8 liang of yellow rice wine.)

According to Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun:
“When preparing Coptis Root (Huang Lian), first wipe off surface fibers with cloth, then soak in rice gruel water for two full ‘fu’ periods. After soaking, strain and dry over a willow wood fire.”

Physicochemical Identification

(1) Under ultraviolet light, the fractured surface of this product shows a golden-yellow fluorescence, especially prominent in the wood part.

(2) Take about 1g of the powdered sample, add 10ml of ethanol, heat to boiling, cool, and filter. Add 5 drops of the filtrate to 1ml of dilute hydrochloric acid and a small amount of bleaching powder; a cherry-red color appears. Alternatively, add 2-3 drops of 5% tannic acid ethanol solution to another 5 drops of the filtrate, evaporate to dryness, and add a few drops of sulfuric acid while still hot; a deep green color appears. (Test for berberine.)

(3) Place a drop of dilute hydrochloric acid or 30% nitric acid on the powdered sample or slice, observe under a microscope after a moment; clusters of yellow needle-shaped crystals appear, which turn red and disappear upon heating. (Test for berberine.)

(4) Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC): Take about 1g of powdered sample, add 10ml of methanol, heat to boiling, cool, and filter; the filtrate is the sample solution. Prepare a mixed reference solution by dissolving hydrochloride salts of berberine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, and magnoflorine in methanol at a concentration of 2mg/ml each. Spot 1-2μl of the sample solution and 5μl of the reference solution on a silica gel TLC plate. Develop the plate with a solvent system of chloroform-methanol-ammonia water (15:4:1), remove and dry the plate. Under natural light, berberine and palmatine appear yellow, jatrorrhizine appears reddish-brown in the presence of ammonia, and magnoflorine is colorless. Under UV light (254nm), berberine and palmatine fluoresce bright yellow-green, magnoflorine fluoresces bright blue-purple, and jatrorrhizine appears as dark spots.

Specifications of Coptis Root (Huang Lian)

(1) Wei Lian: Mostly clustered, thick and firm with some slight bridging; length not exceeding 2cm. No broken sections smaller than 1.5cm, no residual stems, charred pieces, impurities, or mold.
Second Grade: Thinner and smaller than First Grade, with some bridging and occasional broken fragments.

(2) Ya Lian: Single branches with minimal bridging; length not exceeding 2.5cm. Free from broken sections, fiber residues, charred parts, impurities, or mold.
Second Grade: Thinner than First Grade with more bridging; occasional broken sections and fiber residues.

(3) Yun Lian: Single branches with a diameter greater than 0.3cm. Free from fiber residues, bridging, impurities, or mold.
Second Grade: Thinner and smaller, diameter below 0.3cm, with occasional bridging.

Meridian Affiliation

Heart; Liver; Stomach; Large Intestine

Nature and Flavor

Bitter; Cold

Precautions

Use cautiously in cases of nausea and vomiting due to stomach deficiency, chronic diarrhea due to spleen deficiency, and early morning diarrhea due to kidney deficiency.

Functions and Indications

Clears heat and drains fire; dries dampness; detoxifies. Indicated for:

• High fever caused by pathogenic heat entering the Heart channel
• Restlessness and delirium
• Hematemesis and epistaxis due to excessive heat forcing blood out of vessels
• Chest oppression and diarrhea due to damp-heat
• Dysentery
• Irritability and insomnia caused by hyperactivity of Heart fire
• Vomiting due to Stomach heat, or excessive appetite
• Red, swollen, and painful eyes due to Liver fire
• Suppurative infections and ulcers caused by heat toxins
• Carbuncles and acute infections
• Swollen and painful gums
• Mouth ulcers
• Otitis media (ear infections)
• Scrotal swelling
• Hemorrhoids bleeding
• Eczema
• Burns

Dosage and Administration

Internal Use: Decoction, 1.5–3g; or ground into powder, 0.3–0.6g per dose; or used in pills and powders.

External Use: Appropriate amount, ground into powder and applied directly; or decocted for washing; or prepared into ointment; or used as an infusion.

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Clinical Applications

1. Treatment of Bacillary Dysentery

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) has been confirmed to be effective in treating bacillary dysentery, with most cases being cured after 5–7 days of medication. The oral dosage for adults ranges from 2–3g for mild cases to 8–12g for more severe ones. Some suggest a daily dosage of 6g for optimal efficacy, noting that 3g per day yields poorer results. For pediatric patients, the dosage is 0.2–0.3g for those under 1 year old, 0.3–0.6g for those aged 2–4 years, 0.5–1.0g for those aged 4–8 years, and 0.5–1.5g for those over 8 years old, administered 4–6 times daily, with the first dose doubled. In cases of refractory dysentery, a 2–3% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution can be used for retention enema, 100–200ml per session for adults, 1–2 times daily. For chronic dysentery with pathological changes in the intestinal mucosa, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder can be sprayed directly onto the intestinal wall under a sigmoidoscope, once every other day, completing a course of 3–5 sessions. Long-term efficacy of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) in treating dysentery is also regarded as good; recurrence can still respond to retreatment. However, it is less effective for amoebic dysentery, though still applicable for toxic dysentery in children. The average defervescence time for acute bacillary dysentery ranges from 21 hours to approximately 3.2 days; abdominal pain resolves within 1.5–5.9 days; stool cultures turn negative within 3–5.8 days. Comparisons with sulfonamides, streptomycin, and dysentery bacteriophage showed that clinical symptom improvements were similar, but Coptis Root (Huang Lian) achieved faster stool culture negativity. Many researchers concluded that Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is at least as effective as these treatments and has fewer side effects compared to sulfonamides or chloramphenicol. Berberine, an alkaloid component in Coptis Root (Huang Lian), exhibits strong antibacterial activity against Shigella, typically dosed at 100–200mg for adults, taken 3–4 times daily. Once clinical symptoms resolve and stool normalizes, the dosage is halved and continued until two to three consecutive negative cultures are obtained before discontinuation. Alternatively, 0.1% berberine solution (1ml) combined with 1% procaine solution (1ml) can be used for acupuncture point injection. Points selected include Guanyuan, Qihai, Tianshu, and Zusanli (alternating bilaterally), 0.5ml per point daily, with a 7-day course. Injection technique: slow needle insertion, slow drug push, rapid needle withdrawal. In a study of 87 acute and chronic dysentery cases, acute cases showed the best response.

2. Treatment of Typhoid Fever

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder was encapsulated and administered orally at 2g per dose every 4 hours until body temperature normalized, continued for an additional 3–5 days. Among 15 cases treated, 13 were clinically cured, and 2 were ineffective. The average time to complete defervescence was 5.6 days. In two relapsed cases unresponsive to antibiotics and corticosteroids, switching to berberine 200mg thrice daily resulted in significant temperature drop by the third day and full recovery by the 13th day, after 21 days of (used in traditional contexts) without adverse reactions. Stool cultures were negative after a two-week follow-up. Some reports using Xianglian Pill (a combination of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Costus Root (Mu Xiang)) in 137 typhoid carriers showed an absolute efficacy rate over 98%. However, another report found no significant effect after long-term observation in 11 cases treated with Xianglian Pill or berberine.

3. Treatment of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Berberine was administered orally at 300mg per dose, three times daily, over a three-month course. Among 30 patients, symptoms such as hemoptysis, fever, and cough disappeared after (used in traditional contexts); sputum conversion rate reached 83.3%, and radiographic lesions showed absorption. Additionally, 2% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution or 0.25% berberine solution was used for intratracheal instillation to treat tuberculous cavities, with better closure rates in thin-walled cavities. Combined use of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) with isoniazid also showed improvements in diabetic patients suffering from severe pulmonary tuberculosis.

4. Treatment of Epidemic Cerebrospinal Meningitis

A high dosage of berberine was used in 40 cases, with 24 patients cured, averaging 7.4 days for recovery. However, a few patients’ cerebrospinal fluid still cultured meningococci, suggesting that berberine is bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. It was proposed that berberine acts by reaching the meninges via meningeal vessels rather than crossing the blood-brain barrier. Hence, berberine is considered inadequate as a standalone (used in traditional contexts) and cannot replace sulfonamides.

5. Treatment of Lobar Pneumonia

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder was orally administered, 2 fen (about 0.67g) per dose, 4–6 times daily. In an observation of 23 cases, the average time to defervescence was 2.9 days.

6. Treatment of Scarlet Fever

Ten percent berberine syrup was administered orally in 44 cases of scarlet fever, achieving complete (supports). A comparative study showed that berberine’s efficacy was not inferior to penicillin or penicillin combined with sulfonamides. Another study using dried extract of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) (0.25g equivalent to 1g of raw herb) in 38 pediatric cases, with doses of 0.15–0.3g for children and 0.45g for adults, administered 3–4 times daily for an average of 6.5 days, achieved full recovery, occasionally supplemented by nasal or throat sprays of diluted Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution.

7. Treatment of Diphtheria

Treatment with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder (0.6g per dose, 4–6 times daily) combined with gargling with 1% berberine solution in 11 mild diphtheria cases resulted in normalization of temperature within 1–3 days and membrane disappearance within 2.6 days on average. Throat swab cultures turned negative within an average of 2.8 days. The method was also effective for ulcerative membranous pharyngitis. Another report detailed using Coptis Root (Huang Lian) stems for early-stage diphtheria: for patients within 24 hours of onset and with temperatures below 38°C, eight stem pieces (matchstick-sized) were placed between teeth and cheek for 1-hour sessions, 3–4 times daily. Patients with temperatures above 38°C also received sprays of a 10% stem infusion. Among 50 cases treated, all were cured.

8. Treatment of Pulmonary Abscess

Treatment combined intratracheal instillation of 4–6mg of berberine daily and oral berberine 1.2–4.8g divided into three doses for a four-week course, with weekly monitoring. Among 28 patients with localized disease (one lung lobe), 14 were cured, 10 markedly improved, 3 improved, and 1 showed no effect. Among 4 patients with extensive disease, 2 improved. Out of 25 cases with cavity formation confirmed by X-ray, 23 achieved cavity closure.

9. Treatment of Empyema

Powdered Coptis Root (Huang Lian) was decocted twice and made into a 10% solution for iontophoresis therapy, applied daily for 20 minutes, 15–20 sessions per course. A 10-day rest could precede another course if needed. In 12 pediatric acute empyema cases treated primarily with iontophoresis along with drainage and supportive care, 3 cases were cured within 10 sessions, 1 case improved, 6 were cured after 10–23 sessions, and 2 severe cases were not controlled.

10. Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Among 18 patients, 15 were cured.
Powder Spray Method: After cleansing the intestines, ulcers and inflammatory lesions visible under sigmoidoscopy were sprayed directly with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder using a long metal-tubed sprayer, 6–8 fen (approximately 2–2.7g) per session, once every other day, 9 sessions per course.
Targeted Enema Method: For higher lesions, a gastric tube was inserted to the precise site determined by X-ray. Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder was mixed with 150ml of warm water and injected. Patients maintained positions (left lateral, right lateral, supine, or elevated hips) based on lesion location and rested quietly for 1–2 hours post-administration.
Both methods initially caused mild discomfort, which disappeared after 2–3 sessions, without significant side effects. Adding a small amount of procaine hydrochloride powder could （helps maintain） pain without affecting efficacy. Conventional care and supportive treatments were given simultaneously.

11. Treatment of Hypertension

Berberine was administered orally at doses ranging from 0.75g to 4g daily, divided into 3–4 doses, for a (used in traditional contexts) course of 6–14 days. Among 13 patients, 12 achieved normalization of blood pressure within a few days of (used in traditional contexts). It was reported that berberine can inhibit streptococci and dilate blood vessels. Therefore, it was believed that berberine might exert a dual effect in treating hypertension secondary to acute nephritis as well as hypertension accompanied by angina pectoris and coronary artery insufficiency. However, due to berberine’s vasodilatory and hypotensive effects, large doses should be used cautiously in patients with acute infectious diseases complicated by hypotension or shock.

12. Treatment of Brucellosis

A 0.2% berberine injection (each ampoule containing 2ml, with 4mg of berberine) was administered intramuscularly at 2ml per day for 15 days per course, showing certain efficacy across different stages of brucellosis. Another method used a sterile solution prepared with 5.5g of berberine, 2.5g of procaine, and 1000ml of distilled water, with 3ml injected into acupuncture points daily for 8 days, combined with symptomatic (used in traditional contexts). Among 31 cases observed, all responded positively. However, clinical observations using decoctions based primarily on berberine or high doses of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) showed poor efficacy and easy development of drug resistance, indicating that berberine and Coptis Root (Huang Lian) are generally ineffective for brucellosis.

13. Treatment of Pulmonary Candidiasis

In one experimental case, 2g of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) was administered orally every 6 hours, along with vitamins and glucose saline solution. After 2 days, clinical symptoms significantly improved, and after 18 days, X-ray showed resolution of inflammation, disappearance of cavitary lesions, and negative sputum culture. The total dosage of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) used was 160g.

14. Treatment of Balantidiasis

This form of colitis, caused by infection with Balantidium coli, can be life-threatening in severe cases. Although dozens of drugs have been tried, satisfactory results have rarely been achieved. In one case, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder was administered at 0.5g twice daily. After 7 days, stool frequency decreased, and abdominal pain was relieved. On the 9th day, the dose was increased to 1g four times daily. After 4 additional days, stool frequency reduced to twice daily, and abdominal pain disappeared. After 18 days, the stool became formed, microscopy showed no parasites, and all clinical symptoms resolved. Follow-up after one month showed full recovery and return to labor.

15. Prevention and Treatment of Measles

A 1ml intramuscular injection of 35% berberine solution was given to children with a history of measles exposure but no symptoms. If early symptoms like cough, conjunctival congestion, tearing, or nasal discharge appeared, a single 2ml injection was administered. In cases presenting typical symptoms with fever and Koplik spots, a 2ml injection was given initially and repeated after 2 days. After two injections, symptoms subsided, leading to recovery. In a study involving 57 children with exposure history, followed for 24 days, 6 developed typical measles, 15 showed only mild symptoms like conjunctival congestion or cough, and 36 remained healthy.

16. Treatment of Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Using 100% decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) showed remarkable efficacy, comparable to streptomycin or chloramphenicol. The earlier the (used in traditional contexts) was initiated, the better the outcome. Dosages were: under 1 year old, 1.0–1.5ml daily; 1–2 years old, 1.5–2.0ml; 2–5 years old, 2.0–2.5ml; over 5 years old, 2.5–3.0ml, divided into three doses daily, each mixed with 5–10ml saturated syrup. Alternatively, deep intramuscular injection of 20% berberine solution could be administered: under 1 year old, 0.5–1.0ml; 1–2 years old, 1.5–2.0ml; 2–5 years old, 2–3ml; 5–12 years old, 3–5ml, once daily or every other day, 5–7 injections per course.

17. Treatment of Burns

Fresh first- and second-degree burns were treated with 5–10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) oil or 2% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution. The (used in traditional contexts) rapidly dried the wounds, typically leading to scab formation within 24–48 hours, thus preventing infection and shortening healing time. The oil was prepared using castor oil or sesame oil as a solvent with added procaine solution to reduce irritation. For wounds with heavy purulent exudate, 20% berberine solution was used for wet compresses or sprays, with better results if combined with heat lamps to maintain dryness.

18. Treatment of Pyogenic Infections

During the inflammatory infiltration stage, a 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) ointment was applied topically. For ruptured or postoperative wounds, 2–10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution was used for dressing changes. Severe infections were treated with oral Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder capsules, 1g four times daily, which also helped alleviate pain and improve appetite. Among 66 cases of boils, carbuncles, acute mastitis, postoperative infections, and acute lymphadenitis, inflammation subsided within 2.7–6 days, purulent discharge reduced, and wounds healed cleanly. In a study comparing Coptis Root (Huang Lian) gauze with Vaseline gauze in 150 cases, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) gauze showed significantly better outcomes. In vitro sensitivity tests showed that 47% of isolated bacteria were sensitive to Coptis Root (Huang Lian), with the minimum effective concentration being 2–3%.

19. Treatment of Anal Fissures

Cotton swabs soaked in 10% decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) or Amur Cork Tree Bark (Huang Bai) were applied to the fissure area using a “pecking” method, using more than 10 swabs per session, gradually increasing pressure. Among 20 cases observed, bleeding stopped, and pain and itching subsided after 1–2 treatments; complete healing was achieved after 2–5 sessions. Alternatively, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder mixed with mung bean powder and saline into a paste was used for perianal dermatitis associated with anal fistulas, promoting rapid healing and scab formation within 2–3 days.

20. Treatment of Tuberculous Sinus Tracts of the Bone and Joints

A 5% decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) was injected into the sinus tract. For deep or tortuous tracts, a fine rubber catheter was used to deliver the medication thoroughly. Dressings were changed daily or every other day for 1–2 months or longer, resulting in healing. Initial treatments might cause mild fever, but this subsided after a few sessions. Coptis Root (Huang Lian) not only targets Mycobacterium tuberculosis but also controls secondary infections and prevents fermentation. Chronic tuberculous fistulas were treated with injections of 5ml of diluted berberine solution into the tract base for 7–48 days, promoting dissolution of necrotic tissue and healthy granulation tissue formation. Early stages might see increased discharge, but inflammation gradually resolved, and no sequelae occurred. In cases of excessive granulation tissue, wet compresses with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Mume Fruit (Wu Mei) solution were effective.

21. Treatment of Gynecological Disorders

Vaginal tampons soaked in 20% decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) were used to treat 49 cases of trichomonal vaginitis, achieving a (supports) rate of over 95%. Coptis Root (Huang Lian) was also effective in treating cervical erosion and other gynecological inflammations.

22. Treatment of Ophthalmic Diseases

A 5–10% solution of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) was used for eye baths or eye drops, effectively treating acute conjunctivitis and superficial keratitis. A solution combining 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and 3% boric acid was also effective for acute conjunctivitis, keratitis (with supplemental 5% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) ointment), hordeolum, and various types of blepharitis, achieving good results in nearly 200 cases. Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and borneol solution (containing 20% Coptis Root (Huang Lian)) yielded similar outcomes. Iontophoresis with berberine was effective for treating 102 cases of trachoma and 30 cases of blepharitis. Daily eye drops of 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution for 3 weeks achieved an 86.3% efficacy rate in 110 trachoma cases. In another method, sepia bone sticks soaked in 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution were used to scrub trachoma lesions, requiring only 1–3 treatments for mild cases and up to 10 treatments for severe cases, with positive results observed in 1,835 clinical sessions.

23. Treatment of Suppurative Otitis Media

A preparation was made by soaking 10g of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) in 100ml of 3% boric acid solution, followed by boiling and filtering twice. After routine cleansing of the affected ear, the solution was instilled 3–4 times daily, showing significant efficacy especially in acute cases. Additionally, a compound ear drop formulation (8 qian of Coptis Root (Huang Lian), 1.5 qian of borax, and 1 fen of borneol, decocted and filtered into 100ml, then adding borax and borneol) was used to treat 23 cases of chronic suppurative otitis media resistant to prior therapies, resulting in 22 cases achieving dry ears within a short period, with only 1 recurrence. A 0.5% berberine solution was also used for iontophoresis; among 17 diseased ears from 15 patients, all 6 acute cases were cured, and among 11 chronic cases, 3 were cured and 2 improved.

24. Treatment of Atrophic Rhinitis

Sterilized gauze strips measuring about 6cm in length and 0.5cm in width were soaked in 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution for over 24 hours, then used to fill the affected nasal cavity once daily for 10 sessions per course. Among 10 cases treated, excellent outcomes were observed in mild and moderate cases, while efficacy was limited in cases with severe turbinate atrophy and heavy crusting. Improvements were notable in the restoration of olfactory function, reduction of nasal crusts, and decreased nasal discharge.

25. Treatment of Pharyngitis

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder capsules (0.4g per dose, reduced appropriately for children) were administered four times daily, along with gargling using 1% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution. In 19 cases of catarrhal pharyngitis, 33 cases of acute pharyngitis, and 4 cases of ulcerative pharyngitis, swelling of the throat and submandibular lymphadenopathy normalized within 1–4 days of (used in traditional contexts).

26. Treatment of Acute Tonsillitis

A 10% berberine injection was administered intramuscularly at 4ml per dose, twice daily. Among 8 cases treated, significant reductions in body temperature and white blood cell counts were observed within 1–2 days, with complete recovery afterward. In some cases, berberine spray was used, leading to rapid results—fever subsided, and throat pain disappeared within four hours.

27. Treatment of Maxillary Sinusitis

After conventional irrigation of the maxillary sinus, 2ml of 30% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution was instilled per side, with the head tilted toward the treated side for 15 minutes. This was performed once weekly, with 4–7 sessions constituting one course. Among 15 cases, 4 were cured, 8 improved, and 3 had unclear or no response. Most patients showed improvement after just 1–2 irrigations. No systemic adverse reactions were reported. Another method involved using freshly prepared sterile 0.2% berberine hydrochloride solution, 2ml per sinus after each irrigation, 1–2 times weekly. In a study of 89 cases, the (supports) rate was 76.4%, and the efficacy rate was 83.2%, significantly higher than the 43.2% (supports) rate observed in 81 cases treated with penicillin.

28. Treatment of Root Canal Diseases

Root canals were irrigated with 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) decoction (sterilized under pressure) in 24 cases. Between 1 to 5 treatments were needed, curing 22 cases. Observations indicated that Coptis Root (Huang Lian) not only had potent antimicrobial effects but also promoted early closure and healing of fistulas, without irritating the periapical tissues of teeth.

29. Treatment of Oral and Maxillofacial Inflammations

Berberine (600–900mg for adults, three times daily; in severe infections, 600mg four times daily, with additional injections if needed; dosage adjusted for children) was used over 2–8 days in 16 cases following oral and maxillofacial surgery, resulting in good wound healing and primary healing of cleft lip repair incisions. Among 66 cases of acute periodontitis and acute apical periodontitis, symptoms resolved in 45 cases within 2–4 days of (used in traditional contexts), 9 cases showed significant improvement, 6 cases were ineffective, and 6 cases were lost to follow-up. In 21 cases of acute periodontal abscess, all achieved clinical recovery within 2 days when treated with medication and incision drainage. Among 20 cases of acute pericoronitis of wisdom teeth, 11 cases were cured by oral or injected berberine. In 9 cases of acute abscess, after 5–8 days of (used in traditional contexts), 5 were cured, 2 improved, and 2 showed minimal effect. It should be emphasized that while Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is beneficial, standard surgical principles must not be neglected.

30. Treatment of Skin Infectious Inflammations

Iontophoresis with 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution was used to treat 50 cases of skin pyogenic infections such as boils and carbuncles. About two-thirds of patients experienced immediate pain relief and rapid resolution of early inflammatory infiltration, usually healing after 1–3 treatments. In suppurated cases, abscesses ruptured quickly, necrotic tissues sloughed off, granulation tissue and epithelialization progressed rapidly, and wounds healed within an average of 4.7 days without adverse reactions.

31. Treatment of Eczema

A suspension was prepared by mixing Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder (1 part) with castor oil (3 parts) and applied to the affected area. Among 20 cases, 12 achieved full recovery, 5 improved, and 3 showed minimal improvement. No secondary infections such as boils occurred during (used in traditional contexts).

32. Treatment of Erythema Multiforme

For oral and lip lesions, a 10% syrup was prepared with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder and honey for topical application. For the trunk, anus, and external genitalia, 10% Coptis Root (Huang Lian) solution (including sediment) was applied, while clear solution was used for ocular lesions. Oral capsules of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) powder (1g per dose, three times daily) were simultaneously administered. Among 9 cases treated, symptoms began to subside by the second day and complete recovery occurred within 3–13 days. The main manifestations of the disease are oral ulcerations following vesicle rupture, with similar lesions often seen in the eyes, nasal passages, urogenital tract, anus, and navel. Antibiotics and corticosteroids usually offer limited effectiveness. Although rare, allergic reactions to oral or injected berberine have been reported and should be monitored. Experimental studies suggest that compound preparations of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) have stronger antimicrobial activity and lower resistance development compared to single-ingredient formulations.

Various Commentaries

1. Compendium of Illustrations from the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Tu Jing)

In modern clinical practice, physicians often prepare an eye-washing decoction using equal parts of Chinese Angelica Root (Dang Gui), White Peony Root (Bai Shao), and Coptis Root (Huang Lian), finely sliced and decocted with snow water or sweetened water into a concentrated solution. The decoction is applied hot to wash the eyes, reheated whenever it cools. It is highly effective for treating conditions such as wind-toxin induced red eyes and corneal opacity. It is explained that most eye diseases result from stagnant blood and obstructed circulation; thus, combining blood-activating herbs with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) promotes circulation when applied warm, enhancing efficacy.

2. Extension of the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Yan Yi)

Today, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is widely used to treat dysentery based on its bitter and drying properties. However, some practitioners indiscriminately use it at the slightest sign of intestinal weakness or blood traces in diarrhea, ignoring whether the condition is cold or hot and relying solely on high dosages, often leading to worsening outcomes. In cases of excess heat and newly developed bloody dysentery, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) effectively stops the disease without the need for full dosages. If the patient is constitutionally cold or deficient, the herb should not be used.

3. Annotations on Treatise on Cold Damage (Zhu Jie Shang Han Lun)

Bitterness clears the heart, and coldness eliminates heat. The bitter nature of Rhubarb (Da Huang) and Coptis Root (Huang Lian) drains the vacuous heat beneath the heart. Bitter herbs are used to vent upper heat; Coptis Root (Huang Lian) descends excessive yang. Parasites like roundworms become active with sweetness but settle with bitterness; hence, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Amur Cork Tree Bark (Huang Bai) pacify parasitic agitation.

4. Liu Wansu

Ancient prescriptions regard Coptis Root (Huang Lian) as the sovereign herb for dysentery. Effective (used in traditional contexts) of dysentery requires pungent, bitter, and cold herbs: pungency disperses stagnation, bitterness dries dampness, and coldness counters heat. While many bitter cold herbs excessively drain, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Amur Cork Tree Bark (Huang Bai) uniquely cool, dry, and descend fire while removing dampness, thus halting diarrhea.

5. Li Gao

Various itching conditions and ulcers are manifestations of heart fire. Therefore, in treating such sores, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Chinese Angelica Root (Dang Gui) should serve as sovereign herbs, supported by Licorice Root (Gan Cao) and Baikal Skullcap Root (Huang Qin).

6. Essential Herbal Materia Medica (Tang Ye Ben Cao)

The bitterness and drying properties of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) allow it to enter the heart channel, as fire tends toward dryness. However, when purging heart fire, it actually targets the spleen: tonifying the child organ (heart) fortifies the mother (spleen). In treating bleeding disorders, Siler Root (Fang Feng) acts as the upper envoy, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) as the middle envoy, and Sanguisorba Root (Di Yu) as the lower envoy.

7. Zhu Zhenheng

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) addresses damp-heat in the middle burner and purges heart fire. If spleen and stomach qi are deficient and cannot transform fluids, substitute with Poria (Fu Ling) and Baikal Skullcap Root (Huang Qin). When processed with pig bile and paired with Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), it powerfully purges fire from the liver and gallbladder. In cases of gastric heat causing locked jaws, a decoction of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Ginseng (Ren Shen) is sipped continuously throughout the day; even if vomiting occurs, perseverance brings rapid recovery.

8. Han’s Medical Compendium (Han Shi Yi Tong)

In diseases affecting the fire aspect, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is the primary (used in traditional contexts). Fire resides in all five organs; under normal conditions, it is benign, but when pathological, it causes disorder. Various classical texts discuss sovereign, ministerial, evil, and dragon fire—all are manifestations of excess qi. Zhu Danxi remarked, “Excess qi is fire.” Treatments should be tailored: for pathogenic fire, decoct with Glauber’s salt solution; for false fire, use wine; for deficiency fire, use vinegar; for phlegm fire, use ginger juice; for qi stagnation fire, stir-fry with Evodia Fruit (Wu Zhu Yu); for food accumulation diarrhea, stir-fry with yellow earth; for blood-strangury, stir-fry with lacquer. When fire is lodged in the lower burner, soak and bake with salt water; for eye diseases, steam with human breast milk. Raw Coptis Root (Huang Lian) combined with a little Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi), decocted and sweetened with honey, immediately harmonizes heart and kidney function.

9. Elementary Principles of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Meng Quan)

Long-term use of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) paradoxically transforms it into a heating agent, exacerbating sensations of heat instead of cooling them. Thus, it is best applied in cases of initial excess heat conditions and avoided in prolonged illnesses with qi deficiency and low-grade fever, where it may worsen the fire.

10. Introduction to Medicine (Yi Xue Ru Men)

When processed by soaking and stir-frying with wine, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) ascends to treat disorders of the head, eyes, mouth, and tongue. Stir-fried with ginger juice, it disperses heat and is effective for wasting conditions, acute epidemics, summer heat toxins, poisoning, and ulcers by moderating its cold nature.

11. Compendium of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Gang Mu)

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is a primary herb for treating eye diseases and dysentery. Classical combinations include: with Costus Root (Mu Xiang) in Xianglian Pill; with Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang) in Jianglian Powder; with Evodia Fruit (Wu Zhu Yu) in Biantong Pill; with Fresh Ginger (Sheng Jiang) in Jianghuang Powder; wine-steamed for diabetes; wine-cooked for summer heat; with Garlic (Da Suan) for hematochezia; with Evodia Fruit (Wu Zhu Yu) for liver fire; and with Asarum (Xi Xin) for oral ulcers. These combinations exemplify balancing cold and heat, yin and yang, achieving therapeutic harmony without harmful bias.

12. Explanation of the Materia Medica Canon (Ben Cao Jing Shu)

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is revered for treating alcohol-related diseases and diarrhea. It clears heart fire, relieves eye pain, strengthens the gallbladder, treats diarrhea, dries intestinal dampness, stops intestinal bleeding, clears damp-heat from the gastrointestinal tract, heals mouth ulcers, and improves memory through heart fire purification.

13. Collected Sayings on Materia Medica (Ben Cao Hui Yan)

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is indispensable for clearing epidemic heat disorders, yangming and shaoyin pathogenic transformations, and heart-spleen congested heat. It treats palpitations, delirium, toxic sores, liver fire-induced eye disorders, spleen fire-related nausea, liver-spleen stagnation, heart-spleen fire ulcers, and summer heat accumulation. In cases of yin deficiency, processing with ginger juice or aged wine is necessary to moderate its cold properties and ensure proper therapeutic effects.

14. New Compilation of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Xin Bian)

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) primarily enters the heart and pericardium meridians, powerfully purging fire. It can also reach the liver meridian, as do many guide herbs, though its focus remains the heart. It should be used sparingly rather than excessively, suitable for treating excess heat but not deficiency heat. Deficiency fire requires tonification, while excess fire must be purged: using Coptis Root (Huang Lian) to purge fire is a direct method; using Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) to treat fire is an indirect method. Though Coptis Root (Huang Lian) and Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) have opposing natures (cold and hot), they can be combined effectively. Coptis Root (Huang Lian) enters the heart, and Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) enters the kidney. Proper interaction between heart and kidney is essential for maintaining harmony of water and fire in the body. Their conjunction ensures peaceful sleep and emotional balance.

15. Record of a Hundred Types from the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Jing Bai Zhong Lu》)

In general, herbs that remove dampness tend to generate heat, and those that clear heat often cannot remove dampness. Only Coptis Root (Huang Lian) uniquely dries dampness with its bitterness while clearing heat with its coldness, achieving both simultaneously. The heart belongs to fire; thus, cooling fire with Coptis Root (Huang Lian) calms the heart. Moreover, because bitterness is the natural flavor of fire, it can paradoxically strengthen the heart by supplementing it through flavor. If pathogenic fire is present in the heart, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) purges it, while true fire is preserved and stabilized.

16. Verified Annotations on the Materia Medica (Ben Jing Shu Zheng)

In cold damage disorders presenting with chest heat, gastric turbidity, abdominal pain, and a tendency to vomit, Coptis Decoction (Huang Lian Tang) is prescribed. In shaoyin disorders persisting for two or more days with vexation and insomnia, Coptis and Donkey-Hide Gelatin Decoction (Huang Lian E Jiao Tang) is indicated. Both formulas use Coptis Root (Huang Lian) as the sovereign herb, demonstrating its key role in purging heart fire.

17. Discriminations on the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Si Bian Lu)

The usage of Coptis Root (Huang Lian) in Zhang Zhongjing’s formulas varies according to the disease location:

• Coptis and Donkey-Hide Gelatin Decoction (Huang Lian E Jiao Tang) treats heart disorders;
• Five-Ingredient Heart-Purging Decoction (Wu Xie Xin Tang), Coptis Decoction (Huang Lian Tang), and Dry Ginger, Coptis, Baikal Skullcap, and Ginseng Decoction treat stomach disorders;
• Coptis powder treats spleen disorders;
• Pill of Dark Plum (Wu Mei Wan) treats liver disorders;
• Patrinia and Coptis Decoction (Bai Tou Weng Tang) and Kudzu, Baikal Skullcap, and Coptis Decoction (Ge Gen Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang) treat intestinal disorders.

Its compatibility varies: it may be combined with purgatives like Rhubarb (Da Huang) and White Peony Root (Bai Shao) for draining, with Pinellia (Ban Xia) and Trichosanthes Fruit (Gua Lou Shi) for dispersing, with Dry Ginger (Gan Jiang) and Aconite (Fu Zi) for warming, with Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao) and egg yolk for moistening, or with Ginseng (Ren Shen) and Licorice Root (Gan Cao) for tonifying, depending on clinical indications. Thus, the advantages of its bitterness and dryness are harnessed without incurring adverse effects.

18. Correct Meaning of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Zheng Yi)

Coptis Root (Huang Lian) is intensely bitter and cold. It dries dampness and clears heat, purging all types of damp-heat excess in the heart, spleen, liver, kidney, gallbladder, stomach, and intestines. It clears wind-heat eye diseases in the upper body, harmonizes liver and stomach vomiting in the middle, and treats abdominal pain and diarrhea in the lower body. It clears blood heat, thus treating bleeding disorders such as hematemesis, epistaxis, hematuria, hematochezia, and gynecological bleeding, as well as carbuncles, rashes, and erysipelas. Effective (used in traditional contexts) often requires combining it with wind-dispersing, qi-regulating, or phlegm-resolving herbs depending on the syndrome. Simply relying on its bitter cold nature without proper combination cannot guarantee success. Its intense bitterness excels at drying dampness and should primarily be used in syndromes of damp-heat stagnation rather than pure heat. Even in treating ulcers and sores, it is most appropriate for fire toxins arising from excess fire and damp-heat, not for purely blood-heat disorders without dampness.

19. Divine Farmer’s Classic of Materia Medica (Ben Jing)

It governs heat qi, eye pain, canthus injuries with tearing, improves vision, treats abdominal pain and dysentery, and relieves swelling and pain in women’s genitalia.

20. Collection of Annotations on the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Jing Ji Zhu)

It neutralizes the toxicity of croton seeds.

21. Supplement to the Materia Medica (Bie Lu)

It treats hot and cold disorders of the five viscera, chronic dysentery with pus and blood, thirst, fright, facilitates urination, strengthens bones, harmonizes the stomach, thickens the intestines, benefits the gallbladder, and heals oral ulcers.

22. Discourse on the Properties of Medicines (Yao Xing Lun)

It kills pediatric parasitic worms, relieves redness and pain of the eyes, pacifies the liver, and eliminates heat toxins.

23. Supplementary Records of the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Shi Yi)

It treats emaciation and dyspnea.

24. Materia Medica of the Sunflower Scholar (Ri Hua Zi Ben Cao)

It treats the five taxations and seven damages, replenishes qi, relieves cardiac and abdominal pain, calms palpitations, moistens the heart and lungs, promotes flesh growth, stops bleeding, treats ulcers, night sweats, heat-related illnesses, and, when prepared with pig’s stomach into pills, treats pediatric malnutrition.

25. Essential Prescriptions of the Benevolent Studio (Ren Zhai Zhi Zhi Fang)

It removes pathogenic blood obstructing the heart orifices.

26. Pearl Bag of Prescriptions (Zhen Zhu Nang)

It purges heart fire and treats epigastric obstruction. Wine stir-frying or wine soaking directs its action upward to the head and neck.

27. Wang Haogu 

It treats counterflow and excess of heart disorders, and accumulations or masses in the heart.

28. Supplement to the Extension of the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Yan Yi Bu Yi)

When stir-fried with ginger juice, Coptis Root (Huang Lian) gains efficacy in dispersing pathogenic heat.

29. Compendium of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Gang Mu)

It resolves irritability and toxicity caused by overdose of medicines, including mercury poisoning.

30. New Compilation of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Xin Bian)

It stops vomiting, diarrhea, and acid reflux, quenches thirst, treats fire-related eye conditions, calms the mind, prevents seminal emission during dreams, stabilizes agitation, and relieves epigastric fullness.

31. Essentials of the Materia Medica (Ben Cao Bei Yao)

It treats carbuncles, sores, ulcers, alcohol poisoning, fetal toxicity, malnutrition, and kills intestinal parasites.

 

 

The information provided on this page regarding traditional Chinese medicinal herbs is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or (used in traditional contexts).