Herbal Information About Tu Fu Ling in Sliced Form

The most significant historical fact about Tu Fu Ling (Smilax glabra) is its longstanding use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a detoxifying herb. It has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions, joint pain, and inflammatory diseases, highlighting its importance in ancient and modern herbal medicine practices. This herb's ability to cleanse the body of toxins has made it a staple in TCM for promoting overall health and well-being.

Health Benefits of Tu Fu Ling (Smilax Glabra)

1. Detoxification: Tu Fu Ling helps cleanse the body of toxins and impurities. Research Article

2. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, beneficial for conditions like arthritis. Research Article

3. Skin Health: Treats skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Research Article

4. Antibacterial and Antiviral: Fights infections and supports the immune system. Research Article

5. Joint Health: Alleviates joint pain and stiffness. Research Article

6. Liver Protection: Supports liver function and protects against liver damage. Research Article

Common Name:  Sarsaparilla Root

Botanical Name:  Smilax Glabra

Channels:   Liver, Stomach

Other Names:  Smilax, Glabrous Greenbrier Rhizome

Pin Yin Name:   Tu Fu Ling

Other Ingredients:  None

Certificate of Analysis Available

Package Size:   500 Grams   (1.1 pounds)

Form:    Sliced

Origin:   China

Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.

California Prop 65

 Properties:   Sweet, Bland, Neutral

Naturally Occurring Components:  β-sitosterol palmitate, β-sitosterol, astilbin, quercetin

Differences Between Smilax Glabra and Mexican Sarsaparilla (Smilax aristolochiifolia):

1. Botanical Characteristics:

   • Smilax Glabra: Known as Tu Fu Ling, it has smooth stems and is commonly found in China and Southeast Asia.
   • Mexican Sarsaparilla (Smilax aristolochiifolia): Features prickly stems and is native to Mexico and Central America.

2. Uses in Traditional Medicine:

   • Smilax Glabra: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to detoxify the body, treat skin diseases, and improve joint health.
   • Mexican Sarsaparilla: Known for its use in treating skin conditions, arthritis, and as a general tonic.

3. Chemical Composition:

   • Smilax Glabra: Contains compounds like saponins and flavonoids.
   • Mexican Sarsaparilla: Rich in saponins and sterols.

4. Cultural Context:

   • Smilax Glabra: Predominantly used in Asian herbal medicine.
   • Mexican Sarsaparilla: Commonly used in Latin American herbal traditions and also popular in Western herbal supplements.

Summary of Tu Fu Ling Sliced 

• Reduces Dampness
• Astringent in Taste
• Harvested in the Summer and Fall
• Tonic and Diuretic
• Relieves Toxicity

Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
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Citrus potpourri basket.

References:

https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/TuFuLing.html

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11038973/

https://www.lac.com/en/tu-fu-ling-%28smilacis-glabrae-rhizoma%29/tu-fu-ling.html

https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/tu-fu-ling

https://www.sacredlotus.com/go/chinese-herbs/substance/tu-fu-ling-smilax-glabrous-greenbrier-rhizome