Ox Knee

Aka: niu xi

Used in TCM to expel blood stasis through menstruation, tonify the liver and kidney, strengthen muscles and bones, and induce diuresis.

also used for chronic malaria, toothache, throat ulcers, lower back pain, and fracture healing. Long-term use was traditionally said to reduce weight and slow aging.

One of the best-studied bone herbs in TCM. Root extract significantly elevated alkaline phosphatase activity, collagen synthesis, osteocalcin production, and mineralization in osteoblast cells.

Polysaccharide extracts increased bone mineral density, bone mineral content, and trabecular thickness in osteoporosis models, while also stimulating the proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization of osteoblasts.

Ginsenoside Ro, isolated from the root, inhibited the metastatic dissemination of colon cancer cells — blocking migration, invasion, and adhesion to human endothelium by inhibiting integrin αvβ6, MMP-2, MMP-9, and ERK phosphorylation. Oral treatment significantly prevented lung metastasis in mice, so it might work for humans the same way too.

Avoid during pregnancy — the plant has documented uterine-stimulating effects and has historically been used as an abortifacient. May mildly lower blood pressure.

It is widely used to treat osteoporosis, strengthen tendons, and relieve knee and back pain, often reducing joint inflammation and cartilage damage.

Known to invigorate blood flow and break up blood stasis, it is used to alleviate pain from traumas, reduce hypertension, and manage gynecological issues like heavy menstruation or severe cramps.

It contains ecdysterone, a compound that mimics anabolic steroids for muscle repair and is currently on the WADA watchlist due to potential performance-enhancing properties.

Research suggests it can protect neurons from damage and apoptosis, showing potential for improving memory and treating neurodegenerative conditions.

Studies indicate it may help alleviate muscle atrophy.