Smilax lunglingensis F. T. Wang et Tang
Aliases：Bì Xiè, Cì Bì Xiè, Huā Bì Xiè, Huá Gān Bái Bì Xiè.
Bái Bì Xiè is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It is the rhizome of Smilax lunglingensis Wang et Tang [also known as Smilax siderophylla Hand.-Mazz.], a plant belonging to the family Liliaceae.
Efficacy & Actions
Dispels wind and removes dampness; clears heat and promotes diuresis.
Indications
Wind-dampness arthralgia: Such as rheumatic pain in the sinews and bones, limited joint movement, numbness, and other conditions. Urinary system disorders: Such as strangury with turbid urine (urine appearing turbid like rice water), difficult urination, cystitis, and other conditions. Gynecological disorders: Such as damp-heat leukorrhea (abnormal vaginal discharge due to damp-heat). Others: Enteritis, dysentery.
Modern Pharmacology
Studies have shown that Bái Bì Xiè possesses anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, analgesic, diuretic, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, antioxidant, and antitumor effects. Its active component, diosgenin, has shown potential in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions.
Ingredients
Mainly contains saponins and flavonoids, such as dioscin and others. Further studies are needed to determine the specific components.
Usage & Dosage
For oral administration: decoct in water. The usual dosage is 9–15 g.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with Kidney deficiency with Yin deficiency.
Selected Formulas
For wind-dampness arthralgia: May be combined with Saposhnikovia (Fáng Fēng), Notopterygium (Qiāng Huó), Angelica pubescens (Dú Huó), Clematis (Wēi Líng Xiān), and other herbs. For strangury with turbid urine: May be combined with Poria (Fú Líng), Alisma (Zé Xiè), Plantago (Chē Qián Zǐ), and other herbs. Classical formula: For example, "Bì Xiè Fēn Qīng Yǐn" (Bixie Clear-Fen Drink), used for treating turbid discharge (gāo lín, bái zhuó) due to deficiency cold in the lower Jiao.
Medicinal Parts
Rhizome.
Selection & Storage
Store in a ventilated, dry place. Protect from moisture and mold.
