PubMed Studies
16
About
Milder, affordable alternative to Panax ginseng. Used in TCM for energy, immune function, and GI health.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Modulates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathoadrenal system to normalise physiological responses to stress. Activates heat shock proteins and stress-response pathways providing non-specific resistance to physical, chemical, and biological stressors.
📊 Effectiveness
Energy and immune support
Evidence Grade C · 8 studies · n=620
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
May lower blood sugar; monitor with antidiabetics.
🏷️ Other Names
Codonopsis pilosula (Dang Shen)