The medicinal properties and contraindications of Sophora japonica were first discovered by Chinese healers. The fruits of this tree were successfully used to treat cardiovascular diseases and were used to prevent stroke. Sophora is the famous symbol of Beijing. In East Asian countries, the plant is called the “weeping tree” and is often grown for decorative purposes. The plant is also considered a valuable honey plant. Sophora honey, like decoctions, teas, and tinctures, has healing properties: it cleanses the walls of blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, and prevents the development of atherosclerosis, thrombophlebitis, and varicose veins.

Healing effect, indications and contraindications

What are the beneficial properties and contraindications of Sophora japonica? What parts of it are used for medical purposes? How to procure raw materials?

Spreading

Sophora japonica. Botanical illustration from Curtis's Botanical Magazine, vol. 144, 1918.

The tree reaches a height of 25 m. It develops well in the shade, tolerates drought, but is not resistant to frost and strong winds. It grows wild in China, Mongolia, and Japan. Cultivated in the Krasnodar region, Crimea, and the Caucasus. This is a beautiful ornamental tree that is often cultivated in the southern regions.

Blank

The fruits and buds of the plant are harvested as medicinal raw materials. The buds are removed in June-July, and the fruits are cut in September or October. It is advisable to collect them in dry weather and not fully ripe. Dry in natural conditions, with access to fresh air, avoiding exposure to sunlight. Store for 24 months.

Medicinal action

Medicinal properties of Japanese Sophora:

• decongestant;
• antisclerotic;
• pain reliever;
• antitumor;
• hypotensive;
• vascular strengthening;
• rejuvenating;
• anthelmintic;
• antibacterial;
• regenerating;
• stimulating blood circulation;
• capillary stabilizing;
• hemostatic;
• antioxidant;
• antiseptic;
• immunostimulating.

Useful substances in the chemical composition:

• quercetin;
• vitamin P (rutin);
• vitamin C;
• glycosides;
• fixed oils;
• flavonoids (the most valuable is kaempferol);
• alkaloids (the most valuable pachycarpine);
• organic acids;
• micro- and macroelements.

Indications

For what diagnoses and symptoms can treatment with Sophora japonica be effective?

• Gynecology. It is valued for its antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Prescribed for a number of female diagnoses: vaginitis, cervicitis, fibroids, colpitis, candidiasis, cervical erosion, salpingitis. It also stops uterine bleeding, inflammation in the uterus and fallopian tubes, eliminates the causes of infertility, and improves the functions of the reproductive system. It is used internally, but is also used externally in the form of douches. In addition, it is recommended to take it during menopause. The herb normalizes hormonal levels and relieves the unpleasant symptoms of hot flashes during menopause.
• Oncology. Recently, there has been more and more talk about the antitumor properties of this plant. The active ingredients of Sophora stop the growth of malignant cells, prevent the exacerbation of cancer, and inhibit their transition to severe stages. The herb is often prescribed in complex therapy. In advanced forms, the plant relieves swelling and severe inflammation. It is also a powerful natural immunostimulant that supports the body’s defenses during exacerbations and during rehabilitation.
• The use of Sophora japonica fruits for cardiovascular diseases. Rutin, or vitamin P, is the first remedy for heart and joint diseases. Rutin is not produced in the body, so its reserves must be replenished. In addition to Sophora, it is found in the following plants: buckwheat, olives, capers, asparagus, dandelion, rosemary, raspberries, black currants. Sophora helps eliminate cholesterol, prevents the formation of plaques and blood clots, helps with atherosclerosis, hypertension, angina pectoris, varicose veins, and vasculitis. Strengthens blood vessels, stimulates blood supply, reduces capillary permeability. It is considered a preventative against strokes, retinal hemorrhages, and all internal bleeding.
• Cleansing the body. It is a natural antioxidant, removes waste and toxins from the body, cleanses the blood and liver. Helps cope with intoxication of the body.
• Benefits for diabetes. The herb has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the thyroid and pancreas and normalizes hormonal levels. The hypoglycemic properties of the drug have been proven. Used at different stages of the disease only under medical supervision. During the course it is extremely important to follow a diet. Most often, the herb is included in complex therapy.
• Benefits for the gastrointestinal tract. Sophora has an anti-inflammatory effect and heals the mucous membrane well. Most often they drink it for stomach ulcers, gastritis with high acidity, inflammation of the pancreas, worms in the liver, colitis, hemorrhoids, dysentery, and loss of appetite. Folk sources mention that for stomach ulcers, herbal treatment can increase the pain syndrome, which indicates the process of tissue regeneration. But if you experience any side effects, you should definitely consult a doctor.
• External use. The tincture for internal use can also be used externally. It can be used to irrigate, gargle, gums and mouth; compresses and lotions are made from it for rheumatism to relieve swelling and pain; decoctions are used to lubricate the skin for psoriasis, dermatitis, allergies, wounds, cracks, purulent processes, burns, frostbite.

What are the contraindications of Sophora japonica? It is forbidden to use the herb during pregnancy (especially in the first trimester), during the lactation period, or in case of individual intolerance. Children over 3 years of age are given only after medical consultation. Increased doses of rutin and other active substances in the plant can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the stomach and intestines, and bloating. If these signs appear, you should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor.

Using Sophora japonica at home

What is the use of Sophora japonica in folk medicine, modern pharmacology and medical practice? How to properly prepare water and alcohol infusions from this medicinal raw material?

Pharmacology

Sophora is often included in various medications and dietary supplements. First of all, the herb is valued for its high rutin content. The medicinal plant is included in different pharmacological groups: hemostatic (hemostatic), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, regenerative. It is also part of angioprotectors - agents that increase the strength of blood vessels and suppress the process of thrombus formation.

• Tincture of Sophora japonica. The instructions for use contain a list of the following indications: internal bleeding; hypertension; colitis; peptic ulcer; angina pectoris, diabetes mellitus, urolithiasis. External use: acne, trophic ulcers, wounds, burns. It is forbidden to give Sophora japonica extract to children under 12 years of age. Adult dosage - from 10 drops to 1 teaspoon no more than 5 times a day with an intensive course of treatment. An allergic reaction in the form of swelling, itching, and urticaria is possible.
• Dry raw materials. You can buy dry fruits, leaves and buds in various packaging. You can also purchase the herb in the form of herbal tea in bags. Herbal tea, in addition to all the above-mentioned indications, is useful to drink as a tonic and general strengthening agent.
• Component of various drugs. Rutin can be in tablets, powder, or in the form of an alcohol tincture. One of the most famous preparations from Sophora japonica is Sophorin. The instructions for use indicate that the medicine is used for local treatment. It is used to treat skin lesions, ulcers, abscesses, and non-healing wounds in diabetes mellitus. Also known are the drugs “Ascorutin” (tablets) and “Pachykarpin” (tablets, injections).

Tea and decoction

Tea made from dried fruits and buds is taken as a therapeutic and prophylactic remedy for all of the above diseases. It is necessary to take breaks during the course of treatment. The biologically active substances of Sophora accumulate in the body and can subsequently cause poisoning and an allergic reaction.

Preparation of fruit decoction

1. Take 2 tbsp. l. dry fruits.
2. Pour 2 cups boiling water.
3. Boil over low heat for 5 minutes.
4. Leave for 1 hour.
5. Strain.

You can take ½ glass 3 times a day. Helps well with bleeding, especially with tuberculosis. The decoction normalizes blood pressure, relieves inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and calms the nerves. It is especially useful to take decoctions in combination with vitamin C. It is ascorbic acid that enhances the effect of rutin.

Recipes contain other dosages of the herb: 20 g of raw material per 250 ml of water. It is recommended to make a mixture of Sophora fruits and flowers, or even better - grind them into powder. For external use, more concentrated infusions are usually prepared.

Infusion recipe

1. Take 1 tbsp. l. fruits
2. Pour a glass of boiling water.
3. Leave in the thermos for 6 hours.
4. Strain.

Take 1 tbsp. l. no more than 3 times a day (preferably after meals). Do not overuse concentrated infusions when taken orally.

Tincture

It is known that vitamin P dissolves better in an alcohol base. Therefore, the effectiveness of this dosage form is higher. What are the benefits of using homemade Sophora japonica tincture?

• Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Insomnia, neurasthenia, useful for women during menopause.
• Bronchitis, tuberculosis.
• Atherosclerosis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, stroke, angina pectoris.
• Inflammation of the prostate, adenoma.

Preparation of alcohol tincture

1. Take 50 g of crushed raw materials.
2. Pour in ½ liter of vodka.
3. Leave for 3-4 weeks in a dark place.
4. Strain.

You can drink 20 drops 3 times a day. The duration of the course is a month, after which they take a break and repeat the course if necessary after 10 days.

Making an apple cider vinegar tincture

1. Take 50 g of raw materials.
2. Pour in ½ liter of apple cider vinegar.
3. Leave for 3 weeks in a dark place.
4. Strain.

Take diluted: 1 tbsp. l. tinctures in a glass of warm water in the morning. It especially helps with varicose veins.

What are the contraindications for Sophora japonica tincture? In addition to the above general contraindications, during the course of treatment the following are prohibited: driving vehicles, machinery and machines, physical and intellectual activities that require concentration.

• vascular and heart diseases;
• inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract;
• oncology;
• gynecology (fibroids, inflammation);
• urology (adenoma, inflammation of the prostate in men);
• endocrinology (diabetes mellitus and other autoimmune diseases);
• fungal, bacterial skin lesions.

Read more about the preparation of tinctures from a mixture of herbs in our other article.

Application in cosmetology

Vitamin P is highly valued in cosmetology due to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties.

• What are the benefits of Sophora japonica for hair?. The rich composition of minerals and vitamin P promote rapid hair growth. The herb regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, strengthens the roots, stimulates blood supply and nutrition of the hair follicles. It is useful to rub into the scalp for hair loss and severe baldness.
• What are the benefits of Sophora for facial skin?. Strengthens blood vessels, eliminates rosacea (vascular mesh); activates metabolism (fat, lipid); tightens pores; regenerates and rejuvenates cells; provides skin elasticity. In addition, it is useful to lubricate the skin of the hands, elbows, feet, and cracked lips. More suitable for oily and sensitive skin. Helps get rid of pimples and acne during adolescence. Restores hormonal balance, eliminates inflammation and disinfects the skin well.

Japanese Sophora (Styphnolobium jaronicum) is a deciduous plant. An adult tree produces medicinal buds and fruits. The buds are harvested in dry and warm weather, only at the very end of the budding stage, and the fruits are used unripe.

Beneficial and medicinal properties of Japanese Sophora

In medicine, in addition to Japanese sophora, yellowish sophora is also used. Buds and fruits are used for medicinal purposes, through which diseases accompanied by the following pathological conditions:

• impaired elasticity, fragility and fragility of the walls of blood vessels;
• disruption of metabolic processes in many systems;
• disruption of metabolic processes associated with the amount of glucose and cholesterol levels;
• blood pressure disorders;
• immunity disorders;
• allergic reactions;
• disruption of blood supply to tissues;
• predisposition to strokes and heart attacks;
• visual impairment associated with vascular disorders;
• swelling of tissues.

An increased content of alkaloids is noted in plant raw materials, and phenolic coloring substances are present in the root system. The seed material contains a sufficient amount of fatty oils. Biologically active substances are present in different parts, represented by kaempferol, quercetin, flavonoids, organic acids and vitamin “C”.

Among other things, vitamin “P” was identified in the flowers, so the drug “Rutin” can be made from the buds. Type 2 diabetes is treated quite well with a seed-based drug. If you have diabetes, you should definitely consult an endocrinologist before use, and also take into account the main contraindications.

Sophora japonica in folk medicine (video)

Rules and terms for collecting buds and fruits of Sophora Crimean

When picking fruits yourself, you must remember that they must be unripe. Properly harvested raw materials are distinguished by juicy bean leaves of light green color with dark, already completely hardened seeds.

Fruits must be cut in whole bunches, using regular sharp garden pruners. Drying of the collected plant materials must be carried out at a temperature of 30°C. For this purpose, it is necessary to use special dryers or simply lay out the fruits in a well-ventilated area. During the drying process, the fruits need to be separated from each other, and unnecessary stalks are simply thrown away.

Sophora flowers are harvested only in buds, after the lower flowers in the inflorescences have fully opened. The collection of such plant materials must be done in dry weather. Drying is carried out at a temperature of 40-45° C. It is advisable to dry it in whole inflorescences. Completely dried plant materials are sifted through a sieve, where separation from the stalks occurs.

The use of Sophora japonica in folk medicine

In folk medicine, recipes based on sophora are well known, which is used both in single preparations and in combination with other herbal components. Chinese medicine also widely uses this plant to prepare medicines.

For example, Mistletoe and Japanese Sophora herbs contribute to the most effective cleansing of blood vessels, and vodka tinctures relieve hypertension, atherosclerosis, and thrombophlebitis. Also indicated are retinal hemorrhages and joint diseases. It is not difficult to prepare your own medicines - just strictly follow all proportions. You must take the medications in accordance with the recommendations.

Preparation and instructions for use of Japanese Sophora tincture

To prepare an alcohol tincture, you need to pour a couple of tablespoons of crushed seeds into 500 ml of vodka and leave for ten days in a dark place. N The tincture needs to be shaken vigorously every two days. The finished tincture is filtered and stored in a dark and relatively cool place. You need to drink 15 drops of the tincture three times a day before meals for three weeks, after which a ten-day break is taken.

Lotion from the fruit of the plant

To prepare a rejuvenating solution, you need to pour 100 g of dry sophora seeds, leaves and flowers into a glass of high-quality vodka. After two weeks of infusion, filter and use the tincture to wipe the face. If the skin is oily, then use pure lotion. For dry skin, the lotion is diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio and only then applied.

Sophora root decoction

The decoction is traditionally prepared from the roots of the tree, but the fruits can also be used. Used in the treatment of colds and sore throats, and when used externally, it helps strengthen hair follicles and helps against hair loss. To prepare, pour a tablespoon of plant material into a glass of boiling water and simmer over low heat for a quarter of an hour. Then water is added, the product is cooled and filtered. Take 25 ml three times a day.

Medicinal properties and contraindications of Japanese Sophora (video)

Benefits and harms of Sophora japonica oil

Essential oil obtained from the flowers and seeds of Japanese sophora helps stimulate the production of antibodies and increase the activity of macrophages. Among other things, this the product has a pronounced antioxidant effect, helps cleanse the blood, heals wounds, and has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

Medicines based on Sophora

An analogue of alcohol tincture is the drug "Soforin", which is a tincture of fresh Sophora japonica fruits prepared in 48% ethyl alcohol. The drug is also used in medical practice "Routin", which helps strengthen the heart muscle, restore and maintain the elasticity of blood vessels, prevent the deposition of cholesterol plaques and protect against the development of atherosclerosis.

Contraindications to the use of Sophora

Preparations based on Sophora must be used with great caution, and only under the strict supervision of doctors. It is strictly not recommended to use such drugs for pathologies of the liver and kidneys., as well as the presence of febrile illnesses and hypotension. Do not use the product in the presence of severe atherosclerosis and angina. Absolute contraindications are pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as children under three years of age.

Poisoning provokes dizziness and residually severe vomiting, dryness on the mucous membranes, atony of the intestinal tract, abdominal pain, headaches, as well as severe psychomotor agitation and tachycardia. As first aid for such poisoning, artificial respiration should be considered, as well as gastric lavage with a weak pink solution based on potassium permanganate, after which you need to take several tablets of activated carbon.

How to prepare a tincture of Sophora japonica (video)

Today, Sophora japonica and some other species are very widely used in medical practice as plant raw materials for the production of many medications. Before using the plant for the preparation of medicines, it is very important to familiarize yourself with the contraindications, as well as obtain the recommendations of a doctor.

In the fight against diseases, people often turn to natural remedies. Among them, not the least place is occupied by Japanese Sophora, the tincture of which is quite in demand among the population. This medicinal plant from the legume family has found wide application in various fields of medicine, as it has valuable qualitative characteristics. Initially, this crop grew only in Japan, Korea and eastern China, and was later introduced to other countries.

Beneficial properties and healing effects of the infusion

Sophora tincture is prepared from fruits, flowers and buds, which contain a large amount of various useful substances:

• phospholipids;
• flavones;
• glycosides;
• amino acids;
• isoflavones;
• polysaccharides.

The plant is rich in vitamins, tannins, and oils. Its buds contain elements important for the human body:

1. Rutin helps cleanse, reduce permeability and strengthen the walls of blood vessels and capillaries, and stabilize metabolism. Therefore, the tincture is often used to prevent heart attacks and strokes, as well as in ophthalmology for damage to the vessels of the retina.
2. Glycosides improve the functioning of the heart muscle, dilate blood vessels, strengthen the nervous system, normalize the activity of the urinary system, thin mucus during bronchitis and promote its effective elimination, and fight viruses.
3. Quercetin strengthens blood vessels, stabilizes blood pressure, protects against radiation exposure, accelerates tissue regeneration and is a good antioxidant. In addition, it helps in relieving inflammatory processes and destroying pathogens.

Sophora flowers contain large quantities of: zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, boron, iodine, organic acids and fatty oils. The tincture of this plant cleanses blood vessels well of harmful cholesterol, due to which they become stronger and more elastic. In China, Sophora is placed on a par with ginseng and is considered a natural tonic that can increase life expectancy.

Dried buds and flowers have hemostatic and astringent properties. Preparations made from Sophora are used for:

• nosebleeds and hemorrhoids;
• to stop bloody vomiting;
• for skin diseases;
• diabetes mellitus;
• insomnia;
• atherosclerosis;
• mastopathy and uterine fibroids;
• chronic prostatitis;
• stroke;
• angina pectoris;
• thrombophlebitis;
• ulcerative colitis;
• stomatitis, gingivitis;
• conjunctivitis;
• bedsores;
• psoriasis, eczema;
• ulcers;
• bronchitis and bronchial asthma;
• fungal infections;
• burns;
• boils;
• baldness.

Recipe for making vodka and alcohol tincture

The fruits, pods, flowers and buds of the plant are used as raw materials for the preparation of the medicine. Sometimes Sophora tincture is prepared from young shoots and leaves. There are several recipes:

1. The prepared raw materials are thoroughly washed under running water, dried and crushed. If dried fruits are used, then the ratio of raw materials and vodka is 1:2, fresh fruits should be poured in a ratio of 1:1. Cover the container with a lid and leave at room temperature for 3 weeks, keeping it in a dark place. Then the contents should be filtered and poured into another dark glass container. Store in a cool place.
2. For 50 g of Sophora fruits or buds you need to take 0.5 liters of vodka, pour it in and leave it in the dark for a month, then strain.
3. 2 tbsp. l. pour the crushed plant with 70% medical alcohol in an amount of 250 ml and leave in a dark place.

The sediment that remains after straining does not need to be thrown away. It can be used for compresses applied to wounds, or used in the treatment of skin diseases.

Instructions for use of Japanese tincture

Tincture of Sophora with vodka is taken after meals 3 times a day, 1 tsp. The alcohol tincture should be diluted with water 1:1. The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor. The standard full course is 6 months. In other cases, you need to follow these rules:

1. If vascular surgery was performed, then 1 course takes 30 days. In total, you need to do 4 courses during the year: autumn, winter, spring and summer.
2. Joint inflammatory processes and skin diseases are treated for 1 month, including applying compresses to problem areas.
3. Atherosclerosis, hypertension and heart are treated for 1.5 months, using 10-20 drops 3 times a day after meals.
4. To prevent stroke and heart attack, courses are required once every 3 months.
5. For oncology, Sophora is taken together with mistletoe for 2-3 weeks.
6. During menopause and for gynecological problems, the drug is taken for 21 days and the course is repeated after 10 days.
7. Diabetes mellitus, obesity, impotence are treated for 45 days.
8. To restore eyes and brain activity after hemorrhage, take a month-long course of taking the medicine three times a day, 30 drops.
9. During the recovery period after an illness, drink 15-30 drops 3 times a day for a month.
10. To strengthen blood vessels and normalize the functioning of the duodenum and gastrointestinal tract, you should take 25-30 drops for 30 days three times a day. The course is repeated after 10 days.

Contraindications to the use of Sophora tincture

Despite its numerous beneficial properties, the use of this drug is not indicated for all patients. Sophora has several side effects and a number of contraindications. In addition, the plant is poisonous, and you should be careful when taking the drug orally. Like any other remedy, Japanese Sophora can cause allergic reactions, although most people tolerate it quite well.

An allergy may not appear immediately, which makes it sometimes difficult to determine the source of such a reaction. As a result, skin redness, rashes, and itching appear. Meanwhile, the patient continues to take the drug, causing even greater harm to his health. To avoid complications, it is necessary to seek medical advice as soon as possible.

It is not recommended for pregnant women to take the tincture, especially if they have impaired heart and vascular function or problems with the kidneys and liver. It is necessary to monitor blood pressure, because if it is low, symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, stool upset and vomiting cannot be excluded. For thrombophlebitis and hypertension, taking the plant is also contraindicated.