Sophora flavescens

Sophora flavescens, the shrubby sophora, is a species of plant in the genus Sophora of the family Fabaceae. This genus contains about 52 species, nineteen varieties, and seven forms that are widely distributed in Asia, Oceania, and the Pacific islands. About fifteen of these species have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicines. The root is known as Ku shen and is a commonly-used in traditional Chinese medicine. Sophora flavescens is an evergreen slow growing shrub growing to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) by 1 m (3.3 ft). It is hardy to 0–10 °F (−18 – −12 °C) and to US zone 6. The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and requires well-drained soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It requires moist soil. Like many other species in the family Fabaceae, this species can fix nitrogen. Sophorae injection can reduce the toxicity and adverse effects caused by chemotherapy It is anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. Anti-atherosclerosis May be an effective cholesterol-lowering agent and useful for preventing hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. Sophora flavescens may have the potential for treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Neuroprotective in focal cerebral ischemia.