Bupleurum (Chai Hu)
The liver-moving herb in half of all classical Chinese formulas. When detox pathways are stuck, TCM practitioners reach for this first.
Quick Facts
Latin Name
Bupleurum chinense / B. falcatum
Chinese Name
Chai Hu (柴胡)
Primary Use
Liver qi movement, detox support, hormonal balance
Form
Capsule, tincture, decoction (traditional)
What It Is
Bupleurum is a flowering plant whose root is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It appears in more classical formulas than almost any other herb — including the famous Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction), used for over 2,000 years.
In TCM terms, it "courses the liver qi" — meaning it gets stuck energy moving. In Western terms: it supports liver detoxification pathways, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate stress hormones.
The TCM Perspective
Chinese medicine sees the liver as the organ of "free flow" — responsible for smooth circulation of qi (energy), blood, and emotions. When liver qi stagnates:
- • Irritability, frustration, mood swings
- • Tight shoulders and neck
- • Digestive issues, especially bloating after eating
- • PMS, irregular periods
- • Headaches, especially at the temples
Bupleurum is the primary herb to "unstick" this pattern. It lifts and disperses stagnant liver qi, allowing detox pathways to function.
How It Works (Modern Research)
- →Saikosaponins: The primary active compounds. Research shows they protect liver cells, reduce fibrosis, and modulate immune response
- →Phase I/II support: Supports both phases of liver detoxification, helping break down and eliminate toxins
- →Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammatory cytokines, especially in liver tissue
- →HPA axis modulation: Helps regulate cortisol and stress response — explaining the traditional use for emotional imbalances
When to Use It
During detox protocols
Keeps liver pathways open so toxins can exit. Especially useful during parasite or heavy metal cleanses
Hormonal imbalances
PMS, irregular cycles, estrogen dominance — liver processes excess hormones
Stress and irritability
The classic "liver qi stagnation" pattern. Feeling stuck, frustrated, wound up
Digestive stagnation
Bloating, sluggish digestion, feeling heavy after meals
Dosing Protocol
Capsules/Extract
500-1000mg standardized extract, 2x daily
Tincture
30-60 drops, 2-3x daily
Traditional Decoction
3-9g dried root simmered in formulas (usually combined with other herbs)
Best used in formulas rather than alone. Traditional combinations include peony, licorice, and ginger to balance its dispersing nature.
Contraindications
- • Yin deficiency: If you run hot, dry, with night sweats — bupleurum can worsen this
- • High blood pressure: The "rising" nature can aggravate hypertension in some
- • Liver disease: Consult practitioner — can be helpful or harmful depending on type
- • Pregnancy: Traditional caution, especially in high doses
Best Products
Dragon Herbs Bupleurum & Dragon Bone
Classical formula for liver qi with calming minerals
View in shop →Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum)
The 2,000-year-old classical formula — multiple brands available
View in shop →