Pseudolarix amabilis
- Origin
- Asia
- Part used
- See detailed notebook
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
Pseudolarix amabilis, a golden larch native to the mountains of China, has long been known to traditional Chinese herbalists under the name Tu Jing Pi, "golden root bark." Its bark, carefully harvested from the roots and trunk, holds a particular place in old pharmacopeia devoted to skin conditions.
Traditional uses
Fungal skin conditions
The root bark was traditionally applied as an external preparation against itching, redness, and skin conditions attributed to fungi, particularly ringworm and superficial fungal infections.
Eczema and skin irritation
In Chinese tradition, preparations made from this bark were used to soothe certain itchy dermatoses, externally only.
Skin care for animals
Historically, the bark was also used externally to treat skin conditions in livestock in certain rural regions of China.
What to know before use
A plant toxic if taken internally: never ingest the bark or its preparations without the supervision of a qualified professional. Use reserved exclusively for the external route in tradition; any internal use is strongly discouraged. Contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and in young children, even with prolonged external application. Do not apply to broken skin, mucous membranes, or over a large area without the advice of a health professional or qualified herbalist.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
PFAF