Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceStress & mood

Bupleurum (Chai Hu)

A root used as the chief herb in classical Chinese formulas for stress and low mood. Almost all clinical evidence is for multi-herb formulas containing it, not for bupleurum on its own.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Depressive symptoms as part of a formula Limited evidence

    A systematic review and meta-analysis of Chaihu-Shugan-San, a formula in which bupleurum is the principal herb, reported reductions in depression scores versus control. The trials were mostly small, conducted in China, and rated at high risk of bias, and the contribution of bupleurum itself cannot be separated out.

  • Anxiety and insomnia as part of Xiao Yao San Limited evidence

    A meta-analysis of Xiao Yao San, another bupleurum-containing formula, found improvement in insomnia combined with anxiety compared with conventional care. Trial quality was low and blinding was frequently absent.

  • Bupleurum alone Limited evidence

    A comprehensive review of bupleurum in depression found that the antidepressant work is almost entirely animal and mechanistic; no placebo-controlled human trial of the isolated herb was identified.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo dose is established for the single herb. Traditional decoctions use roughly 3–9 g of dried root per day as one component of a multi-herb formula.
SafetyBupleurum-containing formulas have been linked to case reports of drug-induced liver injury and, in Japan, to interstitial pneumonitis when Sho-saiko-to was combined with interferon. Avoid in pregnancy and in existing liver disease, and do not combine with interferon therapy. Saponins can cause nausea and abdominal discomfort.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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