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Uses

Toxic parts

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, there is a report that Corydalis species are potentially toxic in moderate doses[1].

Edible uses

There are no edible uses listed for Corydalis yanhusuo.

Material uses

There are no material uses listed for Corydalis yanhusuo.

Medicinal uses(Warning!)

Yan Hu Suo is an important Chinese remedy that has been used for hundreds of years to help 'invigorate the blood' and relieve almost any painful condition[2]. It is used especially to relieve menstrual cramps, chest and abdominal pains[2]. The plant contains powerful alkaloids that are responsible for this effect[2].

The root is analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and sedative[3][4]. It has traditionally been used to lower pain and strengthen the circulation[4]. It is used in the treatment of a wide range of ailments including lumbago, dysmenorrhoea, hernia, chest pains, insomnia and traumatic injuries[3][4]. The root is harvested in late spring or early summer, once the top growth has died down, and is dried for later use[2].

Various extracts from the plant have shown antitussive, cardiotonic, hypotensive and anticancer activity[4].

Ecology

Ecosystem niche/layer

Ecological Functions

Nothing listed.

Forage

Nothing listed.

Shelter

Nothing listed.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe, the seed rapidly loses viability if it is allowed to become dry[5]. Surface sow and keep moist, it usually germinates in 1 - 3 months at 15°c[6]. Germinates in spring according to another report[5]. Two months warm, then a cold stratification improves the germination of stored seed[7][6]. Sow the seed thinly so that the seedlings can be allowed to grow undisturbed in the pot for their first year. Apply liquid feed at intervals during their growing season to ensure they are well fed. The seedlings only produce one leaf in their first year of growth[8] and are very prone to damping off[5]. Divide the seedlings into individual pots once they have become dormant and grow them on in a partially shaded area of a greenhouse for at least another year. Plant them out into their permanent positions when they are dormant. Division after flowering.

Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Corydalis yanhusuo. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.



Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.

Prefers a moist, well-drained rather light soil, thriving in semi-shade[9]. Grows well in a woodland garden or peat bed.

Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[10].

Crops

Problems, pests & diseases

Associations & Interactions

There are no interactions listed for Corydalis yanhusuo. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.

Polycultures & Guilds

There are no polycultures listed which include Corydalis yanhusuo.

Descendants

Cultivars

Varieties

None listed.

Subspecies

None listed.

Full Data

This table shows all the data stored for this plant.

Taxonomy
Binomial name
Corydalis yanhusuo
Genus
Corydalis
Family
Papaveraceae
Imported References
Edible uses
Medicinal uses
Material uses & Functions
Botanic
Propagation
Cultivation
Environment
Cultivation
Uses
Edible uses
None listed.
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
Functions & Nature
Functions
Provides forage for
Provides shelter for
Environment
Hardiness Zone
?
Heat Zone
?
Water
moderate
Sun
full sun
Shade
light shade
Soil PH
Soil Texture
Soil Water Retention
Environmental Tolerances
    Ecosystems
    Native Climate Zones
    None listed.
    Adapted Climate Zones
    None listed.
    Native Geographical Range
    None listed.
    Native Environment
    None listed.
    Ecosystem Niche
    None listed.
    Root Zone Tendancy
    None listed.
    Life
    Deciduous or Evergreen
    ?
    Herbaceous or Woody
    ?
    Life Cycle
    Growth Rate
    ?
    Mature Size
    x meters
    Fertility
    ?
    Pollinators
    ?
    Flower Colour
    ?
    Flower Type












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