Benefits and Science of Corydalis

This beautiful purple-blue flower flourishes in the Northern Hemisphere and is mainly found in the high altitudes of Zhejiang, China. However, the corydalis yanhusuo, as it’s formally referred to, is not just known for its looks. It is an herbal plant, and its root, or rhizome, is one of the most popular ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine.

Traditional Chinese medicine has gained increased Western interest over the past few decades, as scientists try to find alternatives to conventional options with potentially harmful after-effects. As a result, many of the compounds found in herbal medicine being thoroughly researched; corydalis rhizome extract, derived from the root of the corydalis yanhusuo, being one of them.

Corydalis rhizome extract has been used to help lower pain intensity and focus on pain by increasing blood circulation and oxygen levels, successfully oxygenating the pain area and letting it relax. More than 100 chemical compounds have been identified in the corydalis rhizome, of which many support a healthy response to pain and inflammation and improved overall health.

Corydalis health benefits

According to the National Institute of Health, an estimated 25.3 million American adults experience pain on a daily basis, and 23.4 million adults categorize their pain as being significant.

Because so many Americans suffer from high levels of ongoing pain, the quest for more treatment options has gained momentum over the last several years, and the need to find effective natural solutions is more important than ever.

Fortunately, scientists, medical professionals, and herbalists are tapping into the full therapeutic benefits of naturally occurring, plant-based ingredients, and the modern use of corydalis has been somewhat of a game-changer.

What is corydalis?

Corydalis belongs to the Papaveraceae family, a close relative of the poppy, and it is known to support muscle and joint comfort by increasing blood flow. It contains phytonutrients, commonly known as alkaloids, that serve as the active therapeutic component of the plant. The root herb helps the body maintain a healthy inflammatory response and provides relief for discomfort due to exercise, overwork, or stress.

Corydalis in traditional Chinese medicine

Corydalis, also referred to as Yan Hu Suo, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries, where it is thought to nourish the blood, relieve discomfort, and circulate the qi (flow of energy).

According to TCM theory, the primary reason for pain is “qi blockage,” and corydalis is thought to release the blockage. The herb is also known to positively affect the heart, lungs, liver, and stomach.

Alkaloids in corydalis

The therapeutic benefits come from the alkaloids found within the plant’s rhizome, or the roots and tuber. These alkaloids – which have a bitter taste – act as a protective mechanism for the plant, and, when properly consumed, interact with the human body to improve health.

There are over a dozen various alkaloids in the corydalis plant; research has shown that tetrahydropalmatine (THP) and dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB), two of the most potent alkaloids within corydalis, have both powerful soothing effects.

Why we use corydalis | healthy, beyond relief

By supporting improved blood flow, corydalis helps to circulate more oxygen to the pain area and throughout the entire body. Every single cell in the human body requires oxygen in order to function properly, so the benefits of this herb are plentiful.

Corydalis for relief:

• Increases blood flow, oxygenating the pain area and lubricating muscles and joints
• Provides relief for discomfort from exercise, overwork or stress, and promotes a soothing feeling of relaxation
• Enhances the body’s response to inflammation and the resulting pain

Corydalis for beyond relief

1. Supports heart health
2. Promotes a healthy response to inflammation along the stomach lining