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Notopterygium root extract is derived from a flowering plant in the goods apocyne family called Notopterygium. It is widely used to relieve pain, ease inflammation, and treat other related health conditions in traditional Chinese medicine. The root is extracted through different methods, each of which yields varying potency and concentrations.
They include the following:
Water extraction
It is perhaps the simplest extraction method and usually the first step in extracting other compound types like alcohol extracts. The roots are heated in water to release their chemical components, later concentrated through evaporation.
Alcohol extraction
Here, alcohol is used as a solvent to extract notopterygium's bioactive compounds. The roots are soaked in a mixture of alcohol and water, often a ethanol-water combination, which selectively dissolves alkaloids and essential oils.
Since alcohol pulls more constituents from the root compared to just water, this method is best for creating potent tinctures and extracts.
Steam distillation
Usually used for extracting essential oils from herbs, steam distillation can also be used to purify Notopterygium root extract. The roots are placed in water, and steam passing through causes the oils to evaporate.
The steam is then condensed back into liquid, separating the oil from the water, which is then further processed to obtain pure essential oils.
Solvent extraction
Aside from alcohol, other organic solvents like methanol or acetone are used to extract extracts.Notopterygium root's active compounds. The root is soaked in the solvent, which dissolves the desired constituents.
The method is effective at pulling out a broader range of compounds compared to water or alcohol alone. However, the extraction process is more complex because the solvent must be removed carefully, usually requiring specialized equipment to do so safely.
CO₂ extraction
Carbon dioxide extraction is a modern technique that uses pressurized CO₂ as a solvent to obtain Notopterygium root extract. At high pressure, CO₂ acts like a liquid solvent, but also like a gas, allowing it to selectively extract certain compounds while leaving others behind.
Because this method is so effective, extractors often use it to obtain CO₂-extracted oils for high-demand therapeutic use. Subcritical extraction is performed at lower pressures to extract more polar compounds. Oil extracted this way is purer and contains no residual solvents.
People use Notopterygium root extract for various health benefits, and more so in traditional Chinese medicine.
Anti-inflammatory properties
One of the primary uses of Notopterygium root extract, also called by its Chinese name Qiang Huo, is to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism. The bioactive compounds in the root, particularly notopteridine, have been shown to inhibit the body's inflammatory pathways, reducing pain and swelling.
Relief of joint pain and swelling
Notopterygium root extract is commonly used to alleviate joint pain and discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis and rheumatism. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness in the affected joints.
Relief of headaches and migraines
Its powerful analgesic action and capability to enhance blood circulation make it an ideal remedy for relieving headaches and mild to moderate migraines. Some traditional practitioners have used it for severe headaches caused by internal wind and imbalance in the yin and yang energies within the body.
Fighting off common cold and flu
In TCM, Notopterygium root extract treats the early stages of the common cold and influenza. Its anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) properties help relieve symptoms of these illnesses, such as body aches, chills, and fevers. It is thought to expel external wind, helping the body fight off pathogens causing illness.
Improvement of blood circulation
Notopterygium root is well known for its ability to enhance blood circulation, mainly to the extremities. This property is attributed to its vasodilatory effects and ability to stimulate the movement of qi (energy) within the body's meridian system.
Heat clearing and detoxifying properties
In traditional Chinese medicine, Notopterygium root is considered effective for "clearing heat" in the body, which means reducing excess internal heat that may cause inflammation and infection. This detoxifying effect makes it useful for treating skin conditions like rashes and boils, as well as fevers and infections.
Notopterygium root extract offers a wide array of health benefits, and especially when used within the confines of traditional Chinese medicine.
Relief of pain and discomfort
Notopterygium root extract is renowned for relieving joint pain, particularly from arthritis. Its active compounds, including notopteridine, function as powerful anti-inflammatory agents that inhibit the inflammatory pathways responsible for pain and swelling. This is the reason why many use Notopterygium root extract to alleviate cramping, soreness, and muscle stiffness. It has a calming effect that relaxes the muscles and eases tension, thus reducing pain.
Treatment of colds, flu, and fevers
People also use Notopterygium root extract to fight off common cold and flu symptoms. Its diaphoretic or perspiration-inducing properties help reduce fever and clear out residual toxins in the body that may be causing these illnesses. It also augments the immune system, helping the body fight off infections more effectively.
Better blood circulation
Notopterygium root extract is also valued for its ability to enhance blood circulation throughout the body, particularly to the limbs. This is particularly useful for individuals suffering from poor circulation, as it improves blood flow and helps warm up cold extremities.
Anti-asthmatic effects
Traditionally, Notopterygium has been used to relieve asthma symptoms. Its bronchodilator effects may help widen air passages, easing breathing difficulties. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory properties could reduce airway inflammation, thus providing further relief to asthma sufferers.
Skin infection treatment
In some cases, practitioners have used Qiang Huo to prepare topical ointments for skin infections. Its heat-clearing and antimicrobial properties make it useful for treating rashes, boils, or other skin irritations, particularly those caused by excessive heat or wind. The root is often combined with other herbs in topical ointments or washes to treat skin infections, rashes, and irritations. Its heat-clearing and antimicrobial properties help cleanse the skin and promote healing.
Anti-aging effects
One of the most appealing benefits of Notopterygium root extract is its capabilities for maintaining youthful skin and promoting overall skin health. Antioxidants in the extract help prevent skin damage from free radicals, which can accelerate aging. This reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and promotes skin elasticity.
Joint Health Protection
Regular use of Notopterygium root extract may help protect joint health. Anti-inflammatory and blood-circulating aspects of the extract may help prevent degenerative joint diseases over time.
Storing Notopterygium root extract properly is very important for maintaining its potency and effectiveness over time. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to store Notopterygium root extract effectively.
Storage conditions for powdered extract
Avoid heat and humidity: Keep the extract in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store it in a sealed container to prevent humidity exposure.
Cool and dry conditions are ideal for maintaining the extract's potency. Avoid storing in the bathroom or above the stove, as humidity and heat may degrade the active compounds.
Storage conditions for liquid tincture extract
Keep the tincture in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat. Store it in a glass container, preferably amber or blue, to protect it from light exposure.
Refrigeration is another option for prolonging the shelf life of Notopterygium tinctures, but this may cause crystallization in some cases.
Storage conditions for topical extracts
Keep the herbal cream, gel, or ointment in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent product contamination and air exposure. Do not store topical extracts in the bathroom due to humidity. Consider refrigerating if the product contains natural preservatives and is prone to spoilage.
Storage conditions for capsule/tablet extracts
Store capsules or tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them in the original sealed bottle or transfer to an airtight container. Avoid storing in areas exposed to heat, such as above the stove or in the car.
General storage tips
Be mindful of temperature fluctuations, as these can degrade the quality of Notopterygium root extracts. Avoid exposing the extract to air by keeping it in sealed containers. Regularly check the extract for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in color, odor, or texture. Discard immediately if any signs of spoilage are present.
A1. Traditionally, people have used Notopterygium root extract as a cold and flu relief medication, to clear ''internal heat'', relieve joint and muscle pains, improve blood circulation, and treat skin ailments and infections.
A2. People mostly use Notopterygium root extract in teas, tinctures, capsules, powders, or topical ointments. The method of preparation and consumption depends on factors such as personal preference and the health condition being treated, among others.
A3. When used within recommended guidelines and dosages, there are hardly any side effects. It may, however, cause mild digestive issues or allergic reactions in certain sensitive individuals. It is also worth noting that Notopterygium root extract might interact with other medicines, so it is prudent to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially when taking other medications.
A4. On average, the extract takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to kick in, depending on several factors like individual metabolism and the form of extract being used. For instance, tinctures may act faster than powdered extracts.
A5. No, Notopterygium root extract is not at all addictive. It has no psychoactive effects and poses no risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms. This makes it a good alternative for those seeking relief from pain, inflammation, and other related ailments, without the drawbacks of many conventional medications.