Ardisia gigantifolia

Botanical

What is it

Ardisia gigantifolia is an evergreen shrub native to southern China and Southeast Asia. Its rhizomes are used in traditional Chinese medicine for menstrual disorders, blood stasis, and inflammation.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Menstrual and inflammatory complaints (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional and preclinical data only; no robust human clinical trials available.

How it works

The plant contains triterpene saponins (ardisicrenoside, ardisimamillosides), quinones, and flavonoids. Preclinical studies suggest anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, and anticancer activity in cell and animal models. Human clinical data are very limited and mostly in Chinese-language publications evaluating multi-herb formulas.

Dosage

Traditional decoctions use 9-15 g of dried rhizome daily. The DSLD does not list a single standardized dose. No RDA or upper limit exists.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken as a decoction; no specific modern timing recommendation.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Rhizome extract

Used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas.

Saponin markers vary by product

Safety

Short-term traditional use has not been associated with major adverse effects in available reports. Concentrated extracts have not been formally evaluated for long-term safety in humans.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use cautiously with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and before surgery.

Interactions

Theoretical antiplatelet activity could interact with anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications.

Frequently asked questions

Is it the same as common Ardisia berries?⌄

There are several Ardisia species in supplements. Check the botanical name. A. gigantifolia is distinct from A. japonica and A. crenata.

Does it really work for menstrual cramps?⌄

Traditional use supports this, but high-quality human clinical evidence is lacking.

References

Ardisia gigantifolia on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ardisia gigantifolia on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ardisia gigantifolia (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.