Volume 2,Issue 3
Clinical Application and Dosage of Glehniae Radix in the Treatment of Dryness Syndrome
Objective: To review the evidence from classical formulas, the prescribing experience of renowned traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physicians, and dose-effect research on Glehniae Radix for dryness syndrome, and to summarize its principal clinical applications, dosage ranges, and major compatibility strategies, thereby informing dose-effect research and syndrome-differentiated prescribing of Chinese medicinals for dryness syndrome. Methods: Ancient formularies, the clinical experience of renowned TCM physicians and contemporary clinicians, dose-effect studies of formulas and individual medicinals, and recent pharmacological studies were reviewed. The botanical origin, actions, dosage, safety, and cited literature of Glehniae Radix were checked against the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, and the manuscript was reorganized to reduce repetition. Results: Glehniae Radix is the dried root of Glehnia littoralis Fr. Schmidt ex Miq. (Apiaceae). It nourishes Yin and clears the lung, benefits the stomach, and generates body fluids. The dosage specified in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia is 5–12 g. In classical formulas, the converted dosage of Shashen is generally 7.5–11.25 g, whereas modern decoctions commonly use 9–15 g. In cases of severe fluid depletion, pronounced dryness-heat, Sjögren’s syndrome, post-radiotherapy or post-chemotherapy fluid depletion, or long-standing wasting-thirst characterized by Qi and Yin deficiency, the dosage may be increased to 15–30 g when warranted by syndrome differentiation. Major compatibility strategies include clearing and nourishing the lung and stomach, moistening the lung and relieving cough, benefiting the Stomach and generating body fluids, nourishing Yin and clearing heat, supplementing Qi and nourishing Yin, moistening dryness and unblocking the collaterals, relieving pharyngeal discomfort and restoring the voice, and nourishing Yin and calming the spirit. Conclusion: The use of Glehniae Radix for dryness syndrome centers on regulating the Lung and Stomach together, moistening and nourishing with sweet-cold medicinals, and combining clearing with supplementation. The dosage should be individualized according to disease location, severity of fluid depletion, cold-heat and deficiency-excess patterns, accompanying syndromes, and the properties of coadministered medicinals. When a high dose is considered, Spleen-Stomach tolerance and balancing combinations should be taken into account.
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