Desmodium styracifolium (Guang Jin Qian Cao)
Specifically for Kidney Stones
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Why it works for Kidney Stones:
Promotes diuresis & “stone expulsion” in TCM: The herb is classically used to “clear damp-heat” and promote urination/relieve strangury, an indication that maps to urinary stone symptoms in modern terms. tcmwiki.com
Anti-crystallization & urine chemistry effects: In a rat model of calcium-oxalate stones, total flavonoids of D. styracifolium (TFDS) reduced urinary oxalate, decreased CaOx crystal deposition, and showed urine-alkalinizing effects. SpringerLink
Cell-protective, anti-inflammatory & antioxidant actions: TFDS reduced oxidative stress markers and regulated pathways related to epithelial injury (e.g., KIM-1 via p38/MAPK), mechanisms implicated in stone formation and retention. SpringerLink
Modern pharmacology reviews conclude D. styracifolium is a promising source for anti-urolithiasis treatments (pre-clinical and clinical). ScienceDirect
How to use for Kidney Stones:
You’ll see two common approaches: traditional decoction of the raw herb and standardized TFDS capsules approved in China.
A) Traditional decoction (whole herb)
- Typical dose: 15–30 g of the dried aerial parts, decocted in water (standard TCM preparation). Clinicians sometimes use higher amounts short-term, but this should be individualized. tcmwiki.com
Because preparation details (water volume, boil time, duration) vary by clinic and patient pattern in TCM, dosage and course should be set by a qualified practitioner—especially if you have comorbidities.
B) Standardized TFDS capsule (China, Rx TCM)
- What it is: A capsule containing total flavonoids extracted from D. styracifolium; approved by China’s NMPA in 2022 for promoting the passage of ureteral stones (TCM pattern “damp-heat”). National Medical Products Administration
- Labeled dose and course: 3 capsules, 3×/day, orally for 28 days (each cap 0.2 g; contains 133 mg TFDS extract). Yao86
Scientific Evidence for Kidney Stones:
Regulatory approval with RCTs: The NMPA announcement states the TFDS capsule was evaluated in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trials prior to approval (2022). National Medical Products Administration
Human real-world comparative cohort (post-op residual stones): After flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (FURL), TFDS users had higher stone-free rates and better clearance of residual stones vs. controls; no obvious adverse events reported in the study; also more cost-effective. (161 pts; 2022–2024). Frontiers
Published RCT (cited in peer-reviewed article): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-parallel clinical trial on TFDS for ureteral calculi (Journal of Clinical Urology, 2023) is cited in the Frontiers paper; this supports efficacy/safety, though the full text is not open-access. Frontiers
Animal evidence (mechanistic efficacy): In rats with hyperoxaluria, TFDS reduced crystalluria and CaOx deposition, improved renal function indices, and mitigated oxidative and inflammatory signals. SpringerLink
Cell studies: TFDS protected renal tubular cells (HK-2) from CaOx-induced apoptosis/autophagy via p38/MAPK modulation. SpringerLink
Reviews/monographs: Modern reviews summarize ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry (C-glycosylflavones such as schaftoside, vicenin-1/2/3), and anti-urolithic pharmacology for D. styracifolium. ScienceDirect
Specific Warnings for Kidney Stones:
TFDS capsule (per label / official materials)
- Adverse effects observed (generally infrequent): dry mouth, thirst, nausea, abdominal distension/diarrhea, headache/dizziness, chest discomfort, allergic dermatitis; lab changes reported include transaminase elevations (ALT/AST), GGT, total bilirubin, serum creatinine increase, proteinuria, coagulation changes, and reduced hemoglobin—monitor labs during therapy. Yao86
- Liver caution: Use with caution if you have liver disease or abnormal liver tests; avoid combining with other hepatotoxic drugs; stop and seek care if liver tests rise. Yao86
- Kidney/obstruction monitoring: Label advises close monitoring of renal function, hydronephrosis, and stone passage; if renal function declines, hydronephrosis worsens, pain is uncontrolled, or infection occurs, seek urologic care promptly. Yao86
- Contraindication: Allergy to the product/constituents. Yao86
- Populations without data: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and children—insufficient evidence; avoid unless a specialist advises otherwise. Yao86
- Drug interactions: The insert notes no formal interaction studies to date; clinicians still commonly avoid combining with other strong diuretics or hepatotoxic agents, and monitor closely. Yao86
Traditional decoction (whole herb)
- General TCM cautions: “Spleen/Stomach deficiency-cold” patterns are often cautioned; dosing should be individualized. tcmwiki.com
- Species verification: Because “Jin Qian Cao” refers to multiple botanicals, verify the species (Desmodium styracifolium) to avoid different chemistry/effects. cmro.gov.hk
General Information (All Ailments)
What It Is
Desmodium styracifolium, known in Chinese as Guang Jin Qian Cao (广金钱草), is a perennial herb in the Fabaceae (legume) family. It grows mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including China, Vietnam, and India. The aerial parts (leaves and stems) are most often used in herbal medicine.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Guang Jin Qian Cao is classified as a diuretic herb and is believed to “clear heat,” “remove dampness,” and “expel stones.” It has long been prescribed for urinary tract disorders such as kidney stones (urolithiasis), gallstones (cholelithiasis), and urinary tract infections. The plant is also found in some modern herbal formulations aimed at supporting kidney and liver function.
How It Works
Desmodium styracifolium exerts its health benefits through several biochemical and pharmacological mechanisms:
- Diuretic Effect. The herb promotes urine production, helping flush out excess minerals and metabolic waste. This diuretic action assists in the natural elimination of urinary calculi (stones) and reduces urinary retention or edema.
- Anti-lithic (Stone-Dissolving) Action. Laboratory studies show that its flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds may inhibit crystal aggregation and growth in the kidneys and gallbladder. This means it can help prevent and reduce the formation of stones, especially calcium oxalate stones.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties. Guang Jin Qian Cao reduces inflammation in the urinary tract and protects tissues from oxidative stress. Its flavonoid and alkaloid constituents scavenge free radicals and lower levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, aiding in the healing of urinary tract linings.
- Hepatoprotective and Detoxifying Functions. Some studies indicate that the herb enhances liver enzyme activity and may protect the liver against toxins and oxidative damage. This detoxifying property supports overall metabolic balance and complements its diuretic effects.
- Antibacterial and Antispasmodic Effects. Extracts from the plant show mild antibacterial activity against common urinary pathogens and can relieve smooth muscle spasms, thereby reducing pain associated with stone passage or urinary irritation.
Why It’s Important
Desmodium styracifolium is valued for its role in urinary and hepatic health, and its importance lies in its dual preventive and therapeutic uses:
- Natural Management of Kidney Stones: It offers a non-invasive, herbal alternative to reduce stone size and recurrence risk.
- Support for Kidney and Liver Function: The herb enhances detoxification pathways and assists in excreting metabolic waste efficiently.
- Relief from Urinary Discomfort: Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects help manage infections and inflammation associated with stones or urinary disorders.
- Preventive Wellness: In traditional and modern integrative medicine, it is used as a daily tonic for those prone to urinary tract issues or with mild hepatic stress.
In many Asian health systems, it is viewed as a key herb for maintaining fluid balance, supporting detoxification, and protecting organ systems involved in waste filtration and metabolism.
Considerations
While generally considered safe when used appropriately, there are several important considerations for the use of Desmodium styracifolium:
Dosage and Preparation
- Commonly used as a decoction, capsule, or granule in TCM.
- Typical dosage (as a decoction) ranges from 15–30 grams of dried herb per day, though this varies by formulation and practitioner guidance.
Possible Side Effects
- Mild digestive upset (nausea or diarrhea) may occur in sensitive individuals.
- Rare allergic reactions have been reported.
- Long-term or excessive use may lead to electrolyte imbalance due to its diuretic nature.
Contraindications
- Should be used cautiously in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as safety data are limited.
- Individuals with severe kidney disease or electrolyte depletion should use it under medical supervision.
- Those on prescription diuretics, antihypertensive drugs, or lithium should consult a healthcare provider to avoid interactions.
Quality and Source
- As with all herbal medicines, the efficacy and safety depend on plant quality, correct identification, and proper processing.
- Contamination with heavy metals or adulteration with similar species is a risk in poorly regulated markets.
Helps with these conditions
Desmodium styracifolium (Guang Jin Qian Cao) is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.
Detailed Information by Condition
Kidney Stones
Promotes diuresis & “stone expulsion” in TCM: The herb is classically used to “clear damp-heat” and promote urination/relieve strangury, an indica...
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