Chinese Taxillus
桑寄生 · Sāng Jì Shēng
Strengthens aching joints and steadies pregnancy
Properties
NeutralNeutral botanicalBitter, Sweet
What it does
Chinese taxillus eases chronic joint and bone weakness, especially weak knees and lower back pain from underlying depletion. In TCM, it replenishes the Liver and Kidney, the systems that govern bones and tendons. It's also one of the classical herbs used to prevent miscarriage, calming a 'restless fetus' during pregnancy. Modern interest covers cardiovascular effects.
How to take it
Decoct 9–15g of dried Chinese taxillus stems in water for 25 minutes. Drink 1–2 cups daily as a long-term tonic. Best with practitioner guidance during pregnancy.
Try Chinese taxillus tea daily for chronic low back stiffness
Safety
- Generally well tolerated. Specifically used during pregnancy under TCM supervision
- Source matters. Wild taxillus from non-mulberry hosts can be contaminated
- May affect blood pressure. Monitor if you take antihypertensives
- Talk to your doctor before starting, especially if you take medication
Where it comes from
Chinese taxillus is a parasitic plant. It grows on mulberry trees, drawing nutrients from the host. Its Chinese name Sāng Jì Shēng literally means 'mulberry-living-on,' marking that hemiparasitic life. In TCM, it's been documented since at least the 2nd century in the Shén Nóng Běn Cǎo Jīng. The herb is used in classical pregnancy formulas like Shou Tai Wan, where it supports kidney function during gestation. One systematic review explores its role in hypertension.