Its medicinal part is the root, which is thus called sophora root or shan dou gen as a Chinese herb. In traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is considered extremely bitter and cold in medicinal properties, which make it an ideal medicine for a sore throat caused by the accumulation of heat toxic. It is still traditionally used to cure damp-heat jaundice, lung-heat cough, boils, and other conditions. And its modern pharmacology includes an anti-cancer effect, anti-ulcer effect, and strong anti-asthmatic effect. It is also known to increase white blood cell count, treat an abnormal heart rhythm, diminish inflammation, and protect the liver
