Sophora flavescens

Sophora flavescens, also known as Ku Shen in traditional Chinese medicine,researchers, and natural health enthusiasts for centuries. Native to East Asia—particularly China, Korea, and Japan—this hardy perennial is known for its bitter taste and its deep roots in both traditional healing and modern pharmacology.Grows in grasslands, forests, and mountainous regions up to 1500 meters elevation. Prefers well-drained soils and sunny environments.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine Sophora flavescens has been used for more than a millennium. The dried root, Ku Shen, is one of the 50 fundamental herbs in the Chinese materia medica.Modern research has validated many of the traditional uses of Sophora flavescens, thanks to its rich phytochemical profile. The plant contains a wide variety of alkaloids and flavonoids with diverse biological activities.

Sophora flavescens is a testament to the complexity and power of herbal medicine. With a history that spans centuries and a growing body of modern scientific research to back it up, Ku Shen continues to hold relevance in both traditional healing and pharmaceutical development. Whether used topically for itchy skin, or studied in the lab for its anticancer potential.