Condition
Treatment Support
supports hormones to build new bone
Application
tea, traditional extracts in pill form
Teasel Root
(Dipsacus japonica)
Also know as Xu Duan
Botanical Information
A stout erect, biennial herb with dense, compact heads of white flowers, each surrounded by a hooked, spiny bract. A teasel family member native to Japan and China.
Working with Teasel Root
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Traditional extract in pill form, bulk herb for tea
Christopher Hobbs:
“Teasel root is a traditional Chinese herb used to strengthen the bones, tendons, and ligaments and help relieve symptoms of chronic lower back pain and knees and joint stiffness. The herb is said to increase blood flow to these areas and also help remove soreness and speed healing after an injury.
Teasel root also is used traditionally to stop excessive uterine bleeding during or between menstrual flows, to calm a restless fetus, and stop bleeding during pregnancy. For this use, it is best to consult a qualified herbalist or licensed Chinese acupuncturist or herbalist.
Similar species of Dipsacus, the genus of teasel, are used by North American herbalists, but more experience is needed to determine if they have the same effects as Xu Duan, the Chinese herb.”
- Historically, teasel roots were used in traditional Chinese medicine and European herbalism.
- Common applications included treating musculoskeletal pain, liver and kidney issues, and supporting wound healing.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
- Teasel is sometimes recommended for Lyme disease, although evidence is anecdotal.
- Herbalists also use it to address chronic fatigue, joint pain, and immune system support.
- Its root tinctures and decoctions are the most common forms used.
Chemistry
- Contains iridoid glycosides (e.g., loganin), phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and saponins.
- These compounds are believed to contribute to teasel’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential immune-modulating properties.
Pharmacology
- Laboratory studies suggest teasel exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective activities.
- Some compounds in teasel may modulate cytokines, supporting its purported role in immune health.
- Its iridoid glycosides are thought to have a potential role in bone regeneration based on preclinical studies.
Clinical Trials
- Research on teasel in humans is limited:
- Small preclinical trials suggest it may support bone density and healing.
- No high-quality, peer-reviewed clinical trials confirm its efficacy for Lyme disease or other conditions.
- Much of its reputation comes from anecdotal evidence and traditional use rather than rigorous scientific validation.
Summary
Teasel has a rich history in herbal medicine and shows promising anti-inflammatory and bone-healing properties in preliminary studies. However, its clinical efficacy, particularly for Lyme disease, remains scientifically unproven. Caution is advised when using teasel, and consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Generally considered safe when used in small doses.
Potential side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions.
Limited safety data is available for long-term use or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Dosages vary widely depending on the preparation.
Practitioners often start with low doses and gradually increase based on tolerance.
Conditions treated with Teasel Root
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
kidney and hormone tonic; bone restorative
Application
traditional extract in pill form, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
tonic
Application
tincture, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
adrenal and hormone tonic
Application
traditional extract in pill form, tea
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
