Fang-Feng

Botanical

What is it

Fang feng (Saposhnikovia divaricata, also called ledebouriella or siler) is a perennial herb whose root is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for 'expelling wind,' treating colds, headaches, body aches, and skin conditions.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Cold and allergy symptoms (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional Chinese medicine use as part of compound formulas; no modern controlled trials of fang feng as a single herb for these conditions.

How it works

Fang feng root contains chromones (such as cimifugin and prim-O-glucosylcimifugin), coumarins, and polyacetylenes. These compounds have shown anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antiviral activity in preclinical studies. It is rarely used alone in TCM; instead, it appears in many classical formulas for upper respiratory infections, allergies, and joint pain. Modern controlled human trials of fang feng alone are limited.

Dosage

Traditional doses: 3-10 g dried root daily as decoction or in compound formulas. Modern standardized extracts vary.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken in divided doses through the day, usually as part of a multi-herb formula.

2 commercial forms

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

Dried root (decoction)

Traditional Chinese medicine form.

Water-soluble glycosides extracted into decoction.

Standardized extract

Modern supplement form.

Varies between manufacturers.

Safety

Generally tolerated at traditional doses. Side effects can include mild gastrointestinal upset. Long-term safety has not been well characterized in modern toxicology studies.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding without practitioner guidance. People with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulants should be cautious due to coumarin content.

Interactions

Limited data. Theoretical interactions with anticoagulants (coumarin content) and immunomodulatory medications.

Frequently asked questions

Is fang feng used alone?⌄

Rarely. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is almost always combined with other herbs in classical formulas (such as Yu Ping Feng San for immune support).

Will fang feng cure allergies?⌄

Fang feng is part of classical formulas used for allergic and respiratory symptoms, but there is no modern controlled clinical evidence that the herb alone treats allergies effectively.

References

Fang-Feng on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Fang-Feng on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Fang-Feng (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.