Introduction

Picrorhiza is an herb that grows in the Himalayan mountains. The stem and root have been used to improve lung and liver function. Picrorhiza has also been used to help digestion. It can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for picrorhiza

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

  • Asthma A1
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease B1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take picrorhiza in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

A. Asthma

A1. Thomas M, Sheran J, et al. AKL1, a botanical mixture for the treatment of asthma: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. BMC Pulm Med. 2007 Mar 20;7:4.

B. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

B1. Brockwell C, Ampikaipakan S, et al. Adjunctive treatment with oral AKL1, a botanical nutraceutical, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2014 Jul 9;9:715-721.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC