Pilewort vs Sophora japonica

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Pilewort

Ficaria verna

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular

Pilewort

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Sophora japonica

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Named for its specific traditional use for hemorrhoids (piles) — one of the few herbs truly specific for this condition.

TCM herb Huai Hua (flower buds/fruits); rich in rutin for capillary protection and hemorrhoid treatment.

Active Compounds

Protoanemonin (dried), Anemonin, Saponins, Tannins

rutin, quercetin, sophocarpine, matrine, sophoridine

Traditional Uses

Hemorrhoids, Varicose veins, Perineal tearing

hemorrhoids, varicose veins, capillary fragility, bleeding, diarrhea

Modern Uses

Venotonic, Anti-inflammatory (topical), Astringent

capillary strengthening, anti-hemorrhoidal, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

Topical ointment only — not recommended internally

6-15g dried flowers tea 2x/day; 500mg rutin extract

Contraindications

Internal use, Pregnancy, Broken skin (fresh plant)

pregnancy, bleeding disorders, hypotension

Side Effects

Skin irritation (fresh plant), GI toxicity (internal)

GI upset, hypotension, allergic reactions

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E