Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) and Lyme Disease Frequently Asked Questions About

What is Stephania Root, and how is it different from Guang Fang Ji?

Stephania Root, known as Han Fang Ji in Traditional Chinese Medicine, refers specifically to the species Stephania tetrandra. It is traditionally used to reduce swelling, inflammation, and to drain "damp-heat" from the body.

Guang Fang Ji, on the other hand, refers to Aristolochia fangchi, a completely different plant that contains aristolochic acid, a toxic compound linked to kidney failure and cancer. The use of Aristolochia species has been banned in the United States, Europe, and many Asian countries due to its nephrotoxic and carcinogenic effects.

Key distinction:
Only Stephania tetrandra is considered safe when certified free of aristolochic acid. Always check for third-party lab testing (CoA) to confirm species and purity.

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How does Stephania Root support Lyme disease recovery?

Stephania Root offers several mechanisms that may be helpful in Lyme protocols:

• Reduces inflammation by blocking NF-κB, COX-2, and MAPK signaling pathways, which are often overactive in chronic Lyme disease.

• Modulates immune response by regulating cytokine production, particularly TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.

• Promotes lymphatic drainage, which may relieve swelling and support detoxification during die-off reactions (Herxheimer).

These combined actions make Stephania especially helpful for managing chronic symptoms like joint pain, brain fog, and tissue swelling.

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What symptoms of Lyme disease does Stephania Root help with?

Stephania is most effective for symptoms related to:

• Inflammatory joint and muscle pain

• Neuroinflammation (brain fog, headaches, neuropathy)

• Edema or lymphatic congestion

• Fatigue driven by inflammation

• Pain flare-ups during antibiotic or antimicrobial therapy

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Is Stephania Root safe for long-term use?

Stephania is generally considered safe when used at standard dosages and monitored over time. However, to maximize benefits and avoid adaptation, many herbalists recommend cycling the herb:

• Cycle: 4 to 6 weeks on, followed by 1 to 2 weeks off

• Maintenance: Use lower doses during symptom-free phases

Precautions:

• Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Use caution if on calcium-channel blockers or immunosuppressants

• Not suitable for individuals with Spleen Qi deficiency and loose stools, according to TCM

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Are there known drug interactions with Stephania Root?

Yes. Stephania root may interact with the following medications:

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before adding Stephania Root to a pharmaceutical regimen.

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Can Stephania Root be used with antibiotics or antimicrobial Lyme herbs?

Yes. Stephania is often used alongside conventional antibiotics such as doxycycline or amoxicillin and with other herbal antimicrobials like Japanese Knotweed and Cat’s Claw.

It may reduce inflammation caused by bacterial die-off and help improve tolerance of intensive Lyme protocols. It does not appear to interfere with antimicrobial actions and may even support immune modulation in tandem with treatment.

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What are the best forms of Stephania to use?

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Can Stephania Root Be Used in Combination with Other Lyme Herbs?

Yes. Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) is commonly used in comprehensive herbal protocols for Lyme disease and can be safely combined with other well-known herbs for synergistic support. Many practitioners and herbalists include Stephania as part of multi-herb formulas to target different aspects of Lyme-related symptoms, such as inflammation, immune dysfunction, and detoxification.

Here’s how it works in combination with other top herbs:

• Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum)
  Rich in resveratrol, this herb helps protect the brain and nervous system from inflammation and oxidative damage. It pairs well with Stephania to calm neuroinflammation and support cognitive clarity in chronic Lyme patients.

• Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)
  Known for immune modulation and antimicrobial properties, Cat’s Claw supports the body’s ability to control bacterial load. When used with Stephania, it enhances immune balance while reducing inflammation-driven pain and fatigue.

• Teasel Root (Dipsacus sylvestris)
  Traditionally used in Lyme protocols for musculoskeletal pain, Teasel strengthens joint tissues and improves circulation. Combining it with Stephania may amplify joint relief, especially in cases of stiffness, swelling, and lymphatic congestion.

• Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)
  Best suited for early-stage or preventative Lyme support, Astragalus boosts Wei Qi (defensive immune energy) and strengthens overall resilience. It complements Stephania’s detoxifying and anti-inflammatory actions in people recovering from active infection or looking to prevent reinfection.

Conclusion:
Combining Stephania Root with these herbs provides a multi-layered approach—addressing immune modulation, microbial control, inflammation, neurological protection, and detoxification. For best results, these combinations should be personalized and guided by a qualified herbal practitioner.

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Is Stephania Root appropriate for all Lyme patients?

Not always. It may be inappropriate in the following cases:

• Pregnancy or lactation

• Patients with severely low blood pressure

• Those taking calcium-channel blockers

• Autoimmune patients on immunosuppressants

Additionally, some individuals with weak digestion may not tolerate the bitter, cold properties of this herb and may require formula modifications.

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Is Stephania legal and available in the United States?

Yes. Stephania tetrandra is legal and available in the United States, Canada, and most European countries, as long as the product is free from aristolochic acid. Always look for:

• Third-party lab testing (HPLC)

• "Aristolochic Acid: Not Detected" on the Certificate of Analysis

• Verified botanical ID (not just the common name “Fang Ji”)

Avoid generic "Fang Ji" powders unless they list Stephania tetrandra clearly and provide lab results.

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How can I tell if my Stephania product is authentic?

Signs of a high-quality, safe Stephania product include:

• Pale yellow powder or slices (not brown or woody)

• Mild, earthy aroma—not musty or pungent

• Verified CoA showing no aristolochic acids

• Labeled “Stephania tetrandra” on the packaging

• QR code linking to third-party lab test results

Avoid products that don’t show full botanical identification or batch testing.

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How should Stephania be stored?

• Keep in an airtight container, away from light and moisture

• Ideal storage temperature: below 25°C (77°F)

• Shelf life: 18–24 months for raw root; 12 months for extracts or tinctures

• Discard if the aroma turns musty or the powder darkens significantly

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Final Recommendation

Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) is a versatile and evidence-supported herbal remedy for managing inflammation, joint pain, lymphatic stagnation, and immune imbalance in chronic Lyme disease. It should be used with professional guidance, and only in its authenticated, lab-tested form.

If you're seeking a trusted source of Stephania root that is:

• Aristolochic acid-free

• DNA-verified

• Sourced from clean, regulated farms

• Backed by batch-specific lab testing

You can shop lab-tested Stephania Root at:

[1st Chinese Herbs – Stephania Root Product Page]

Stephania Root (Stephania tetrandra)

• Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects: Tetrandrine, a principal alkaloid in Stephania tetrandra, has been shown to suppress inflammatory mediators such as COX-2, IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-κB. This action contributes to its potential in ameliorating inflammation-related symptoms. PubMed

• Neuroprotective Properties: Tetrandrine has demonstrated the ability to inhibit IKKβ phosphorylation, leading to reduced production of pain mediators like PGE2 and COX-2. This mechanism suggests its potential in alleviating neuroinflammation-associated pain. PubMed

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Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

• Immune Modulation: Extracts of Uncaria tomentosa have exhibited immunomodulatory activities by decreasing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. This supports its traditional use in managing inflammatory conditions. PubMed

• Antiviral and Cytokine Regulation: Studies indicate that Uncaria tomentosa can modulate cytokine expression, reducing TNF-α and IL-6 levels, which are often elevated in inflammatory states.

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Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum)

• Neuroprotective Effects: Resveratrol, a major compound in Polygonum cuspidatum, has been found to protect dopaminergic neurons by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis, highlighting its potential in neuroprotective strategies. PubMed

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Resveratrol derived from Polygonum cuspidatum has demonstrated the ability to attenuate neuroinflammation, suggesting benefits in conditions characterized by excessive inflammatory responses. PubMed

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Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)

• Immune Enhancement: Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) have shown promise in enhancing immune function, particularly in individuals with compromised immunity, by modulating various immune pathways. PubMed+1Wikipedia+1

• Immunomodulatory Effects: APS has been reviewed for its capacity to modulate immune responses, indicating potential benefits in treating various diseases, including those involving immune dysregulation. PubMed

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Teasel Root (Dipsacus sylvestris)

• Traditional Use in Joint Health: While specific clinical studies are limited, Dipsacus sylvestris has been traditionally used to support joint health and alleviate musculoskeletal discomfort, suggesting potential benefits in managing Lyme-related joint symptoms.