Chinese figwort

Scrophularia ningpoensis

Scrophularia ningpoensis, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, has been used for centuries in various herbal remedies. While specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it is often included in formulas aimed at treating conditions such as liver disorders and cardiovascular issues. Scientific evidence suggests that compounds from Scrophularia ningpoensis, particularly harpagoside, may have cytoprotective effects on neurons by reducing nitric oxide generation and inhibiting α-synuclein nitration. Additionally, bufalin encapsulated in polysaccharide-ursodeoxycholic acid nanoparticles derived from this plant has shown enhanced anti-tumor activity against liver cancer cells. Angoroside C interventions have demonstrated improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and histopathological abnormalities in diabetic mice. Furthermore, Qishen paste prepared with Scrophularia ningpoensis has been observed to improve cardiac function and conduction in heart failure mice by upregulating connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in cardiac resident macrophages. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for Scrophularia ningpoensis, but further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Harpagoside showed substantial cytoprotective effects on rotenone-treated N2A cells by suppressing NO generation and inhibiting α-synuclein nitration. D PMID
  • The study found that bufalin encapsulated in Scrophularia ningpoensis polysaccharide-ursodeoxycholic acid nanoparticles showed enhanced anti-liver tumor activity compared to free bufalin. D PMID
  • An angoroside C intervention improved glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and histopathological abnormalities in db/db mice in a dose-dependent manner. D PMID
  • Qishen paste improved cardiac function and conduction in heart failure mice by upregulating Cx43 in cardiac resident macrophages. D PMID
  • HPG alleviates sepsis-induced ARDS by modulating gut microbiota to increase acetate production, which activates FFAR2 to reprogram immune responses. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Chinese figwort?

Chinese figwort (Scrophularia ningpoensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Chinese figwort?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese figwort; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Harpagoside showed substantial cytoprotective effects on rotenone-treated N2A cells by suppressing NO generation and inhibiting α-synuclein nitration.

How strong is the evidence for Chinese figwort?

The strongest finding for Chinese figwort carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Chinese figwort safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese figwort in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Chinese figwort interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese figwort in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Chinese figwort?

Chinese figwort is also known as: Норичник нингпонский.

Is Chinese figwort a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Angoroside C: A potent AMPK activator in the aqueous extract of Scrophularia ningpoensis, alleviates metabolic syndrome in db/db mice. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 [Preparation, characterization, and in vitro anti-liver tumor activity of bufalin nanoparticles with Scrophularia ningpoensis polysaccharide and ursodeoxycholic acid as carriers]. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Reduced levels of nitrated α-synuclein in the protective effect of harpagoside on rotenone-induced cellular models of Parkinson's disease. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Harpagide alleviates sepsis-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome via gut microbiota modulation. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Qishen Paste Improves Cardiac Conduction in Heart Failure by Regulating Cardiac Resident Macrophage Connexin43. literature abstract metadata