Qian Cao (Rubia cordifolia): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Qian Cao work to stop bleeding?

Qian Cao (Rubia cordifolia) contains anthraquinone compounds, primarily alizarin and purpurin, which provide its hemostatic effects. These compounds promote blood vessel constriction and enhance platelet aggregation, facilitating clot formation. The herb also demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, which supports its wound-healing properties. Evidence Level C indicates these mechanisms are supported by preliminary pharmacological studies and extensive traditional use, though human clinical trials remain limited.

Can I take Qian Cao with blood thinners like warfarin?

No, Qian Cao should not be taken with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin, heparin, or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin and clopidogrel. The herb possesses inherent blood-activating and anticoagulant properties that may potentiate the effects of these medications, significantly increasing bleeding risk. This interaction is well-documented in traditional medicine systems. Patients on blood-thinning therapy should avoid Qian Cao entirely and consult their healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements affecting coagulation.

What is the recommended dosage for Qian Cao root?

The standard adult dosage for Qian Cao is 6-9 grams of dried root daily, typically prepared as a decoction. For standardized extracts, 500mg taken twice daily is commonly recommended. Dosage may vary based on the specific condition, preparation method, and individual factors. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners often adjust doses according to patient constitution and presentation. Always follow guidance from a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider, as improper dosing may reduce efficacy or increase adverse effects.

Is Qian Cao safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Qian Cao is contraindicated during pregnancy and should be strictly avoided. The herb's blood-activating properties can stimulate uterine contractions and potentially cause miscarriage or premature labor. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda both classify this herb as unsafe for pregnant women. There is insufficient safety data for breastfeeding, so nursing mothers should also avoid it. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal preparations.

What conditions does Qian Cao treat in traditional medicine?

Qian Cao is used in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda to cool blood, activate circulation, and stop bleeding. It treats blood heat conditions including nosebleeds, hematemesis, and menstrual disorders. In Ayurveda, it is particularly valued for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Evidence Level C supports these traditional applications through preliminary research and historical use, though more rigorous clinical studies are needed to confirm efficacy.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Qian Cao (Rubia cordifolia) is a traditional medicinal herb used for its blood-stanching, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties [PMID:42208761, 40378926].

Background

Rubia cordifolia L., also known as Indian Madder or Manjistha, is a perennial climbing vine [PMID:36160419, 22133091]. In the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, it is stipulated as the sole botanical origin for the medicinal herb Qiancao [PMID:42208761].

Traditional uses

Traditionally used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding, primary dysmenorrhea, allergic purpura, eczema, psoriasis [PMID:40412781], hematemesis, epistaxis, flooding, spotting, traumatic bleeding, amenorrhea caused by obstruction, and joint impediment pain [PMID:27999402]. In Uyghur traditional medicine, it is used for vitiligo, tinea, skin scars, and inflammatory wounds [PMID:40412781].

Active compounds

Key chemical constituents include anthraquinones (such as alizarin, purpurin, rubiadin, and xanthopurpurin) [PMID:36676964, 33254282, 38103025, 38380329], naphthoquinones (such as rubimaillin) [PMID:41694586], triterpenoids, cyclic hexapeptides, and oligopeptides [PMID:27999402, 28920330].

Mechanism of action

Mechanisms include inhibition of the CXCL10/CXCL9/STAT1 signaling pathway in vitiligo [PMID:40412781], triggering ferroptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells via CPT1A targeting for liver fibrosis [PMID:41694586], and reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β) while increasing IL-10 [PMID:33254282, 36615560].

Clinical evidence

Evidence BGut Microbiota

A 4-week pilot study evaluated the effects of 2,000 mg daily manjistha (R. cordifolia) on human gut microbiota composition [PMID:32955913].

Evidence DVitiligo

Extract ameliorates vitiligo by inhibiting the CXCL10/CXCL9/STAT1 signaling pathway in mouse models [PMID:40412781].

Evidence DMyocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Reduced myocardial infarction area and restored arterial blood flow and contractility in mice [PMID:36875688].

Evidence DUlcerative Colitis

Co-administration with Scutellaria baicalensis alleviated weight loss, colon shortening, and histopathological damage in DSS-induced colitis mice [PMID:40344969].

Evidence DDiabetic Neuropathy

Attenuated neuropathy by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress in rats [PMID:38004451].

Evidence DLiver Fibrosis

Rubimaillin ameliorated liver fibrosis by triggering ferroptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells in mice [PMID:41694586].

Evidence summary

The majority of evidence is derived from animal models (mice/rats) and in vitro studies (Level D), with one small human pilot study (Level B) regarding gut microbiota. Review articles (Level C) support its traditional use and phytochemical profile.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 40412781 (2025) — Rubia cordifolia L. extract ameliorates vitiligo by inhibiting the CXCL10/CXCL9/STAT1 signaling pathway. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
2.PMID: 39183172 (2024) — Cytotoxic and Antitumor Agents from Genus Rubia. · Chemistry & biodiversity
3.PMID: 42208761 (2026) — A comprehensive review of Rubia medicinal plants: Traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities. · Annales pharmaceutiques francaises
4.PMID: 32905089 (2020) — Influence of phytochemicals in induced psoriasis (Review). · Experimental and therapeutic medicine
5.PMID: 36875688 (2023) — Madder (Rubia cordifolia L.) Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Protecting Endothelial Cells from Apoptosis and Inflammation. · Mediators of inflammation

Qian Cao

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Qian Cao