Sophora japonica vs Pilewort

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Sophora japonica

Cardiovascular

Ficaria verna

Cardiovascular

Sophora japonica

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Pilewort

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

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

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

Active Compounds

rutin, quercetin, sophocarpine, matrine, sophoridine

Protoanemonin (dried), Anemonin, Saponins, Tannins

Traditional Uses

hemorrhoids, varicose veins, capillary fragility, bleeding, diarrhea

Hemorrhoids, Varicose veins, Perineal tearing

Modern Uses

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

Venotonic, Anti-inflammatory (topical), Astringent

Adult Dosage

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

Topical ointment only — not recommended internally

Contraindications

pregnancy, bleeding disorders, hypotension

Internal use, Pregnancy, Broken skin (fresh plant)

Side Effects

GI upset, hypotension, allergic reactions

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

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E