Discrimination and Proper Use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, Cynanchi Wilfordii Radix, and Cynanchi Auriculati Radix in Korea: A Descriptive Review

In 2015, a descriptive review was conducted to address the confusion and misuse of three herbal medicines in Korea: Polygoni Multiflori Radix (PMR), Cynanchi Wilfordii Radix (CWR), and Cynanchi Auriculati Radix (CAR). The review detailed the distinct plant origins, efficacies, uses, components, and toxicities of these herbs to ensure their correct application. PMR, known as Ha Su O, has been linked to 450 cases of liver toxicity, which can be mitigated by processing with black bean juice. CWR, often confused with CAR due to similar morphology, has shown dose-dependent toxicity in rats, and CAR, not traditionally used and illegal for such use, is toxic and has caused severe symptoms and death in rats. The document suggests renaming CWR and CAR to prevent misuse and calls for more research to identify CAR in mixtures and establish safety guidelines. The study was funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.