Arisaema erubescens

Botanical

What is it

Arisaema erubescens, known as Tian Nan Xing in Chinese herbal medicine, is a perennial whose rhizome is used traditionally for phlegm-related conditions, seizures, and joint complaints. Raw forms are highly toxic; only processed ("prepared") forms are used.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Phlegm, seizure, and inflammation (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use is established but rigorous modern human clinical trials are limited.

How it works

The raw rhizome contains needle-like calcium oxalate raphides that cause severe mouth and throat irritation. Traditional processing (boiling with ginger or alum) breaks these down and reduces toxicity, allowing internal use. Processed Arisaema contains lectins, polysaccharides, and other compounds with reported expectorant, antiseizure, and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies. Human clinical evidence is mostly traditional or within multi-herb Chinese formulas.

Dosage

Traditional decoctions of processed Arisaema use 3-9 g of dried processed rhizome daily. Raw rhizome should never be ingested. DSLD does not list a single standardized dose.

When and how to take it

Used in traditional decoctions; not appropriate for self-administration.

1 commercial form

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Processed rhizome extract

Used only in qualified traditional Chinese medicine practice.

Raphides destroyed during processing

Safety

Raw Arisaema is acutely toxic and can cause oral, throat, and GI irritation, including life-threatening swelling. Only properly processed forms should be considered for use. Even processed forms have a narrow safety margin and should be used under qualified TCM supervision.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and outside qualified practitioner guidance. Avoid raw or improperly processed material entirely.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with sedatives and antiseizure medications. Specific clinical data are limited.

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat raw Arisaema?⌄

No. It is highly toxic and can cause severe mouth and throat injury.

Is it safe in formulas?⌄

Only when properly processed and prescribed by a qualified TCM practitioner. Self-administration is not recommended.

References

Arisaema erubescens on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Arisaema erubescens on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Arisaema erubescens (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.