Sophora flavescens Extract: A Potent Traditional Botanical with Modern Applications

Brief Introduction

Sophora flavescens (苦参), also known as Kushen, is a perennial herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its root extract contains a unique combination of bioactive alkaloids and flavonoids, making it valuable for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer applications.

Key Bioactive Compounds

• Alkaloids (1-3%):

• Matrine (primary marker)

• Oxymatrine (water-soluble derivative)

• Sophocarpine

• Flavonoids (2-5%):

• Kurarinone

• Trifolirhizin

Mechanisms of Action

• Antiviral: Inhibits HSV, HBV, and influenza replication

• Antipruritic: Modulates TRPV1 and histamine pathways

• Anticancer: Induces apoptosis via p53 activation

• Antibacterial: Disrupts bacterial biofilms

Clinical Applications

✔ Dermatology: Eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis
✔ Oncology: Adjuvant in liver and gastric cancers
✔ Hepatoprotection: Reduces fibrosis markers
✔ Veterinary Medicine: Antiparasitic applications

Quality Control

• Standardization: ≥98% matrine/oxymatrine (HPLC)

• Extract Ratio: 10:1 concentrated extract

• Solubility: Water-soluble forms available

Safety & Dosage

• Topical Use: 0.5-5% in creams

• Oral Dose: 50-300 mg/day

• Caution: Potential GABAergic effects at high doses

This versatile extract bridges ancient medicine and modern pharmacology, with growing interest in its immunomodulatory properties.

Functions

1. To be anti-bacteria, anti-inflammatory;

2. To relieve internal heat;

3. To be used for suppressing sarcoma S180, anti-tumors;

4. To kill the pests, widely applied in agriculture field.