Don’t confuse the herb phellodendron (Phellodendron amurense, A.K.A. Amur cork tree) with philodendron (Philodendron chinense, A.K.A. Chinese cork tree), which is an ornamental indoor and common house plant! While the plant’s common names are the same, the two plants are entirely different. It’s a classic example of knowing your botanical name to know the correct herb.
In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), phellodendron (phellodendron amurense/Huang Bai) is considered one of the top 50 herbs used for healing. It is especially noted for its ability to Clear Heat and Toxins from the Body, including Eliminating Damp-Heat from the Bladder and Kidneys.
In the West, phellodendron is known for containing the important healing compound berberine. This compound supports the herb’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-enhancing, and anti-cancer healing properties.
Among its many attributes it is used to heal Damp skin disorders, yellow vaginal discharge, diarrhea with strong odor, high fevers, and lung and digestive infections.
