Kampo Shakuyaku-kanzo-to vs Black Haw

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Kampo Shakuyaku-kanzo-to

Paeonia + Glycyrrhiza Kampo

Musculoskeletal

Viburnum prunifolium

Musculoskeletal

Kampo Shakuyaku-kanzo-to

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Black Haw

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Japanese Kampo two-herb formula for muscle cramps and PCOS.

Native North American anti-spasmodic closely related to cramp bark. Traditionally used to prevent miscarriage and treat menstrual cramps.

Active Compounds

Paeoniflorin, Glycyrrhizin, Glycyrrhetinic acid

scopoletin, salicin, arbutin, tannins, coumarins

Traditional Uses

Leg cramps, Muscle spasms, PCOS, Abdominal pain

Preventing miscarriage, Treating menstrual cramps, Treating afterbirth pains, Relaxing muscle spasms

Modern Uses

Antispasmodic, Anti-androgenic, Pain reliever

Uterine anti-spasmodic, Menstrual pain relief, Muscle relaxation

Adult Dosage

Standard Kampo dosing; typically 2.5g powder 3x daily

2-4g dried bark in decoction

Contraindications

Hypertension, Hypokalemia, Pregnancy

Kidney stones, Aspirin allergy, Anticoagulant use

Side Effects

Edema, Hypokalemia, Pseudoaldosteronism

Stomach upset, Nausea

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E