红珠藤 / 细叶巴戟 / 小叶巴戟天 — Morinda parvifolia Bartl. ex DC.

Pinyin: Hóngzhūténg / Xìyè Bājǐ · Malay: Akar Mengkudu Hutan / Mengkudu Akar / Akar Terang · Family: Rubiaceae (茜草科)

Energetics

Warm to Neutral (平 / 微温)

Flavor

Sweet, slightly bitter, pungent (甘、微苦、辛)

Meridians

Kidney (肾), Liver (肝), Spleen (脾)

Traditional Edict

Red Pearl Vine. Tonifies Kidney Yang, strengthens sinews and bones, unblocks collateral channels to relieve numbness, clears damp-heat to relieve jaundice. Classic Lingnan/Malay liana.

Cautions & Contraindications

Mild blood-activating properties; contraindicated during pregnancy and in excessive menorrhagia.

Clinical Applications

Lumbar disc herniation, postmenopausal osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis joint numbness, chronic viral hepatitis, and erectile dysfunction.

Quality Markers

Morindin, Rubiadin Anthraquinones >= 0.30% & Polysaccharides (HPLC MHM standard)

Mechanism & Phytochemistry

1. Anthraquinones and iridoids stimulate osteoblast proliferation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity via BMP-2/Smad pathway. 2. Polysaccharides scavenge free radicals and protect hepatocytes against transaminase elevation. 3. Modulates peripheral microcirculation.

Preparation & Dosage

Sliced dried roots/vines decocted 20-30 minutes: 10-20 g daily (up to 30 g for severe bone-joint debility). Steamed with yellow rice wine (Jiu Hongzhuteng) for Kidney nourishment. Standardized extract: 250-500 mg.

Appended Prescriptions

1. Lingnan Joint Fortifying & Sinew-Strengthening Decoction with Eucommia ulmoides (Du Zhong) and Achyranthes bidentata. 2. Hepatoprotective Anti-Jaundice Tea with Phyllanthus niruri.

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Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only