Ophiopogonis
Also known as: Ophiopogon japonicus, Ophiopogonis Radix, Mai Dong, Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber, Mondo Grass Root
Overview
Ophiopogon japonicus, also known as Ophiopogonis Radix or Mai Dong, is the dried tuberous root of the Ophiopogon japonicus plant, native to East Asia. It is a widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It contains saponins, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, and is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties. In TCM, it is used for cardiovascular support, respiratory health, and as a general tonic for fatigue and weakness. It is commonly included in TCM formulas for heart disease, arrhythmia, and post-viral fatigue. Research on Ophiopogon japonicus is primarily from Asia, with increasing interest in Western medicine for its cardiovascular and metabolic effects. However, the quality of available evidence is mixed, with some meta-analyses and systematic reviews, but many studies have methodological weaknesses.
Benefits
Ophiopogon japonicus, particularly when used in combination with other herbs in TCM formulas, shows promise in supporting cardiovascular health. A meta-analysis of 113 RCTs found that TCM formulas containing Ophiopogonis Radix significantly reduced in-hospital mortality and malignant arrhythmia in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, and increased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). It has also been used in Chinese herbal medicine formulas for post-viral fatigue, although direct evidence for Ophiopogonis Radix alone is limited. The most significant benefits appear to be for AMI patients, with a moderate effect size in reducing mortality. While used in TCM for general tonic effects, robust evidence is lacking for monotherapy.
How it works
Ophiopogon japonicus exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Its cardioprotective properties are attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-arrhythmic actions, as well as its modulation of cardiac energy metabolism. The polysaccharides and saponins present in the herb may also enhance immune function, although this evidence is indirect. Ophiopogonins, a key component, modulate ion channels, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit inflammatory cytokines. While traditionally used for respiratory issues, evidence supporting this is limited. The pharmacokinetics of Ophiopogon japonicus are not well-studied in humans, but animal studies suggest moderate bioavailability of its saponins.
Side effects
Ophiopogon japonicus is generally considered safe when used as directed in TCM formulas, with adverse events being rare in clinical trials. Common side effects are not reported in available studies. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in some individuals. Allergic reactions are rare. While no well-documented drug interactions exist, caution is advised when using it with cardiovascular medications due to potential additive effects. It is contraindicated in individuals with known allergies to the herb. Safety in pregnancy, lactation, and children is not established, so use should be avoided in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Ophiopogon japonicus is not well established for monotherapy. Typical TCM formulas use 6–15 g of dried root per day. This dosage range is generally recommended for decoction or extract forms. The maximum safe dose is not established, and long-term safety data are lacking. It is traditionally taken in divided doses throughout the day. Decoction (boiled root) is the most common form, as standardized extracts are rare. Absorption may be enhanced with food. No specific cofactors are required for its use.
FAQs
Is Ophiopogon japonicus effective as a standalone treatment?
The best evidence supports its use in multi-herb formulas for cardiovascular health. Evidence for monotherapy is limited. Most benefits are seen in combination with other herbs.
Is Ophiopogon japonicus safe?
It is generally safe, but long-term data are lacking. Rare allergic reactions are possible. There is a theoretical risk of interactions with cardiovascular drugs, so monitor closely.
When is the best time to take Ophiopogon japonicus?
It is best taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Benefits are typically observed over days to weeks in clinical settings, not instantly.
What are the expected results from taking Ophiopogon japonicus?
When used in combination formulas, moderate reduction in mortality and arrhythmia risk in AMI patients has been observed. Monotherapy efficacy is often overstated.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1511486/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 113 RCTs (n=10,779) found that TCM formulas containing *Ophiopogonis Radix* reduced in-hospital mortality and malignant arrhythmia in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, and increased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The study also reported a reduced incidence of adverse events. However, the authors noted poor reporting of randomization, blinding, and allocation concealment, as well as a lack of independent testing of product purity.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0300896&type=printable – This meta-analysis examined Chinese herbal medicine for post-viral fatigue and included *Ophiopogonis Radix* in multi-herb formulas. The study found that while *Ophiopogonis Radix* is often included in these formulas, direct evidence for its efficacy as a monotherapy is lacking. The authors noted heterogeneity in formulas and outcomes, limiting the ability to draw definitive conclusions about the herb's individual contribution.
- https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.1515/biol-2022-0638/html – This experimental study investigated fresh processing technology of cut *Ophiopogonis Radix*. The research focused on processing methods to preserve bioactive compounds and did not assess clinical efficacy. The study's findings are not directly applicable to clinical efficacy or patient outcomes.
