​Gastrodia Elata (Tian Ma / Tall Gastrodia)

Gastrodia Elata (Tian Ma / Tall Gastrodia)

Product Name: Гастродия высокая, Gastrodia elata, Hoch-Gastrodie, Gastrodia alta, Gastrodie élevée, جاسترويديا إيلاتا, เทียนมา, Gastrodia baland, Gastrodia бийик, Qastrodia yüksək, Гастродия баланд, Gastrodia aukšta, Gastrodia augsta, Гастродія висока, Qastrodia yüksək, גסטרודיה אלאטה

Synonyms: гастродия, гастродия высокая, тяньма; gastrodia, tall gastrodia, Tian Ma; Hoch-Gastrodie, Tianma; gastrodia alta, tall gastrodia; gastrodie élevée, tianma; جاسترويديا, تيان ما; เทียนมา, เทียนหม่า

Parts used: rhizome, tuber, root, aerial part, mycorrhizal fruiting body, spores, seedlings, rhizome.

Main indications for the use of Gastrodia elata: Epilepsy, vascular headache, central vertigo, vascular dementia, Parkinson's disease, arterial hypertension, hypertensive encephalopathy, consequences of traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, autonomic dysfunction, anxiety disorder, cognitive impairment, chronic cerebral ischemia, cerebral atherosclerosis.

Use of Gastrodia elata in mixtures and complexes: Neurasthenia, neurological pain of various etiologies, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, functional headache, migraine, post-stroke condition, premenstrual syndrome, psychosomatic disorders, depressive disorder, sleep disturbance, chronic stress, weakness after infections.

Pharmacological properties of Gastrodia elata: neuroprotective, antioxidant, antispasmodic, anxiolytic, sedative, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, vasodilating, nootropic, antihypertensive, antidepressant, antimigraine, analgesic, neuromodulating, regenerative.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Gastrodia elata

Powder — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Powder): Epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, vascular dementia, central vertigo, arterial hypertension, cognitive disorders of vascular origin, post-traumatic encephalopathy, ischemic stroke, cerebral atherosclerosis.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 2 times a day after meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder 3 times a day for pronounced vertigo, epileptic seizures, vascular dementia, and Parkinson's disease.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): No more than 10 grams of powder per day for resistant forms of epilepsy, multi-infarct dementia, and chronic cerebral ischemia.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder once a day for 30 days every 3 months for patients with a hereditary predisposition to neurodegenerative diseases, chronic hypertension, cognitive impairment, and stress overload.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 6 years, weight from 20 kilograms: 0.25 grams of powder once a day; if necessary, increase to 0.5 grams 2 times a day. Consider individual tolerance.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance, acute psychoses, hypotension below 90/60 mm Hg. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 6 years have been registered.

Side Effects (Powder): In case of overdose, cases of headache, decreased blood pressure, drowsiness, and coordination disorders have been registered.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For body weight less than 60 kilograms — reduction of dosage by 25%; for body weight over 90 kilograms — increase of dosage by 20%.

Preparation method (Powder): To prepare 100 grams of powder, take 500 grams of fresh gastrodia rhizome, wash, cut into thin slices, and dry at a temperature not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius for 48 hours in the shade with ventilation. Grind the dried raw material to a micropowder in a mortar or mill to a powder state. Sieve through a sieve with a mesh size of 100 microns. Store in a tightly closed glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a dry dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, away from sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening the package, use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Dry Extract): Vascular dementia, Parkinson's disease, cognitive disorders, vascular headache, chronic cerebral ischemia, neurovegetative disorders, tremor, post-stroke conditions.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 milligrams of dry extract (equivalent to 5:1 raw material) 2 times a day orally after meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 500 milligrams of dry extract 3 times a day for chronic vascular insufficiency, epilepsy, and hypertensive encephalopathy.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 2 grams per day in resistant conditions (under medical supervision): Parkinson's disease, multiple cognitive deficits, secondary dementia.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 150 milligrams once a day for 30 days every 3–4 months for patients with chronic arterial hypertension, cerebral circulation disorders, and elderly individuals with signs of neurodegeneration.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 6 years, weight from 20 kilograms: 50–100 milligrams of dry extract once a day; an increase is permissible as prescribed by a doctor. Use under 6 years is not recommended.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Hypotension, pronounced bradycardia, psychoses. No data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 6 years have been registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): When doses are exceeded, complaints of nausea, dizziness, weakness, and hypotension are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): For weight less than 60 kilograms — reduction of dosage by 30%; for weight more than 90 kilograms — increase of dosage by 25%.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): Take 500 grams of dried and ground gastrodia rhizome, pour with 2 liters of distilled water, keep in a water bath at a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius for 3 hours. Filter the decoction, repeat extraction twice. Combine the extracts, evaporate to a volume of 300 milliliters. Spray-dry the resulting concentrate at 60–70 degrees Celsius to obtain a powder mass. Yield — about 100 grams of dry extract 5:1.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in airtight packaging made of light-proof material at a temperature up to 25 degrees Celsius, air humidity — not higher than 60%. Store in a place protected from EMI. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — no more than 90 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Tincture): Central vertigo, epilepsy, vascular dementia, anxiety disorder, neurovegetative dysfunction, chronic stress, consequences of traumatic brain injury, cognitive disorders in the elderly.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops of tincture 2 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of warm water, taken 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day for pronounced cognitive impairment, vascular headache, and anxiety syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 40 drops 3 times a day for resistant epilepsy, vascular dementia, and consequences of traumatic brain injury — no longer than 10 days under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once a day in the morning, in courses of 21 days every 3 months for arterial hypertension, sleep disorders, and decreased concentration.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 12 years due to ethyl alcohol content. From 12 years — no more than 5 drops once a day, dissolved in 50 ml of water.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, pregnancy, lactation, organic liver diseases. No data on safety in children under 12 years have been registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): In case of overdose, symptoms of ethanol intoxication, dizziness, nausea, decreased blood pressure, and lethargy are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): For weight less than 60 kilograms — reduce the dosage by 20%; for weight more than 90 kilograms — increase the dosage by 25%.

Preparation method (Tincture): Take 100 grams of ground dry gastrodia rhizome, pour with 500 ml of 40% ethyl alcohol. Infuse in a dark place at room temperature for 14 days, shaking daily. Strain and squeeze the raw material. Store the finished tincture in a glass container with a tight lid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a cool, light-protected place at a temperature of 15–20 degrees Celsius. Avoid contact with sources of EMI. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Oil Infusion): Neurovegetative dysfunction, tension headache, anxiety disorder, sleep disorders, tremor, vegetative crises, chronic stress, facial muscle spasms.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Rub 3 ml of oil infusion into the occipital and temporal areas 2 times a day with light massage movements.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 5 ml of infusion 3 times a day for pronounced muscle tremor, anxiety states, and headache with neck muscle tension.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 10 ml per application for severe neurological pain, spastic conditions of the cervico-occipital region, and muscle tightness.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 2 ml of oil infusion once a day in the evening, in courses of 14 days monthly for chronic stress, sleep disorders, and asthenic syndrome.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 5 years — 1 ml of oil infusion once a day for autonomic disorders, hyperexcitability, and sleep disorders. External use only. Avoid contact with eyes.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Allergic reactions to components, open wounds on the skin, individual intolerance. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): In case of overdose, skin irritation, headache, and a sensation of heat in the application area are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): For weight less than 60 kilograms — no more than 2 ml per zone; for weight over 90 kilograms — an increase in dosage by 30% is permissible.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): Take 20 grams of dry ground gastrodia rhizome, pour with 100 ml of coconut oil, heat in a water bath to 45 degrees Celsius, keep at this temperature for 3 hours. Cool, filter through gauze. Store in an airtight dark glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a cool dark place at a temperature up to 20 degrees Celsius, avoid direct sunlight and EMI. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Rectal Suppository — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Rectal Suppository): Vascular dementia, epilepsy, neurovegetative dysfunction, post-traumatic encephalopathy, chronic cerebral ischemia, tension headache, consequences of stroke.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository (containing 250 mg of dry gastrodia extract) once a day at night, rectally.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day for pronounced tremor, cognitive impairment, and severe vascular component.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Up to 3 suppositories per day (750 mg of extract) for severe forms of dementia, seizure disorders, and chronic cerebral insufficiency — under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository every other day, course of 10 suppositories quarterly for patients with hypertensive disease, cerebral atherosclerosis, and reduced cognitive function.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): From 8 years, weight from 25 kilograms — ½ of a suppository once a day. Do not use in children under 8 years. Use only when indicated.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): Hemorrhoids in the acute stage, proctitis, individual intolerance to components. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): When doses are exceeded, irritation of the rectal mucosa, intestinal spasms, and mild dizziness are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppository): For weight less than 60 kilograms — use ½ of a suppository; for weight more than 90 kilograms — use of 2 suppositories per day is permissible.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppository): To prepare 10 suppositories, take: dry gastrodia extract — 2.5 grams, cocoa butter — 17.5 grams, lecithin — 0.2 grams. Melt the cocoa butter in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 36–38 degrees Celsius, add the extract and lecithin, mix thoroughly until homogeneous. Pour into suppository molds of 2 grams each. Cool until completely solidified. Store in the mold.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +2 to +8 degrees Celsius, in the original packaging, in a place protected from light and EMI. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening the package, use within 10 days.

Ointment — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Ointment): Tension headache, muscle tremor, occipital neuralgia, tension of the cervico-occipital muscles, anxiety, sleep disorders, consequences of traumatic brain injury.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply 1–2 grams of ointment to the occipital area, temples, and neck 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply up to 3 grams of ointment 3 times a day for pronounced muscle tension, post-stress disorders, anxiety, and neurological pain.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 grams of ointment per application, no more than 3 times a day for acute pain, convulsive spasms, and nighttime anxiety.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply 1 gram of ointment once a day in the evening in a course of 10–14 days each month for chronic tension, sleep disorders, and stress load.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 5 years — 0.5 grams of ointment once a day for hyperexcitability, sleep disorders, and autonomic disorders. Do not apply to the face and mucous membranes.

Contraindications (Ointment): Skin damage, allergy to components, acute dermatoses. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): Local irritation, itching, and redness of the skin are possible in case of individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): For weight less than 60 kilograms — reduce the dosage by 25%; for weight over 90 kilograms — increase by 20%.

Preparation method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment: dry gastrodia extract — 5 grams, coconut oil — 65 grams, beeswax — 25 grams, lavender essential oil — 0.5 grams, lecithin — 1 gram, vitamin E — 0.5 grams. Melt the oil and wax in a water bath at a temperature of 50–60 degrees Celsius, add the extract and other components with constant stirring. After cooling, pour into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store at a temperature of +5 to +20 degrees Celsius in a tightly closed dark glass container. Avoid sunlight and EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Cream — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Cream): Muscle overstrain, neuralgia, tremor, autonomic disorders, anxiety, chronic fatigue, stress, insomnia.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply 1 gram of cream to the neck and occipital area 2 times a day, rubbing in circular movements until absorbed.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Apply 2 grams of cream 3 times a day for pronounced neurological tremor, increased muscle tone, and anxiety states.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 grams of cream per application, no more than 3 applications per day for pronounced symptoms of tension, anxiety, and psychosomatic disorders.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Apply 1 gram of cream to the temporal area once a day in the evening in a course of 14 days every 2 months for stress load, sleep disorders, and asthenoneurotic conditions.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 5 years — 0.5 grams of cream once a day to the neck and behind the ears for hyperexcitability, stress reaction, and autonomic dysfunction.

Contraindications (Cream): Allergic reaction to components, damage to the skin, purulent inflammations. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Cream): In rare cases — redness of the skin, itching, burning. In case of overdose, skin rash is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): For patients with weight less than 60 kilograms, it is recommended to reduce the volume of application by 30%. For weight more than 90 kilograms, the dosage may be increased by 20%.

Preparation method (Cream): To prepare 100 grams of cream: dry gastrodia extract — 3 grams, coconut oil — 20 grams, shea butter — 20 grams, lemon balm hydrolate — 40 grams, emulsifier (cetyl alcohol) — 10 grams, preservative (ecofren) — 0.5 grams, lavender essential oil — 0.5 grams, vitamin E — 1 gram, panthenol — 5 grams. Heat the fatty phase (oils and wax) and the aqueous phase (hydrolate) separately to 60 degrees Celsius, then combine, add the extract and actives, mix with a mixer for 5 minutes. Pour into containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of +4 to +20 degrees Celsius in a dark jar. Avoid direct sunlight. Shelf life — up to 90 days. After opening — use within 30 days.

Serum — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Serum): Age-related skin changes, impaired microcirculation, vascular network on the face, skin fatigue, decreased elasticity, consequences of stress, dull complexion.

Standard Dosage (Serum): Apply 2 drops of serum to the face and neck 2 times a day — morning and evening, after skin cleansing.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 4 drops 2–3 times a day in areas with pronounced capillary network, wrinkles, and signs of dermal hypoxia.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): Up to 6 drops 3 times a day in professional cosmetic care — for skin thinning, vascular atrophy, and post-stress loss of turgor.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 2 drops once a day in the evening in a course of 28 days, 3–4 times a year for tired skin, decreased turgor, vascular reactions of the skin, sleep disorders, and stress.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Not used in pediatric practice.

Contraindications (Serum): Individual intolerance to components, active skin inflammations, dermatitis of unspecified etiology. No data on use during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Serum): In case of overdose, redness, burning, and allergic rash are possible, especially in the periorbital area.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Serum): Adjustment by body weight is not required.

Preparation method (Serum): To prepare 100 ml: rose hydrolate — 60 ml, water-soluble gastrodia extract — 5 grams, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid — 0.5 grams, vegetable glycerin — 5 ml, panthenol — 3 grams, preservative (ecofren) — 0.8 grams, neroli essential oil — 0.3 ml, purified water — up to 100 ml. Combine all components in the cold phase, mix thoroughly with a magnetic stirrer or mixer. Pour into sterile containers with a dispenser.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store at a temperature of +4 to +10 degrees Celsius, away from light and EMI. Shelf life — up to 60 days. After opening — use within 21 days.

Soap — Gastrodia elata

Indications (Soap): Sensitive skin, vascular network, skin irritation, facial skin fatigue, tendency to inflammation, skin manifestations of autonomic disorders.

Standard Dosage (Soap): Apply to damp skin once a day, lather in the palms, distribute over the face and neck with gentle movements, rinse with cool water.

Enhanced Dosage (Soap): 2 times a day, morning and evening, in cases of pronounced vascular network, increased skin sensitivity, and fatigue after stress and insomnia.

Maximum Dosage (Soap): Up to 3 times a day for seborrheic conditions, chronic skin fatigue, and recovery after dermatological procedures — no longer than 7 days in a row.

Preventive Dosage (Soap): Once a day in the evening for 3 weeks each season (4 times a year) for patients with sensitive, tired, and inflammation-prone skin.

Pediatric Dosage (Soap): From 3 years — use once every 2 days only on intact skin of the face or body. Avoid contact with eyes.

Contraindications (Soap): Allergy to components, dermatoses in the acute stage, weeping eczema. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Soap): Skin dryness, redness, and itching are possible in case of individual intolerance or frequent use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Soap): Not required.

Preparation method (Soap): For 100 grams: organic soap base (without SLS) — 80 grams, water-soluble gastrodia extract — 5 grams, coconut oil — 10 grams, shea butter — 3 grams, sandalwood essential oil — 0.5 grams, vitamins A and E — 0.5 grams each. Melt the soap base in a water bath to 50 degrees Celsius, add the oils and extract, mix. Pour into silicone molds. Cool at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius for 12 hours.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Soap): Store at a temperature of +5 to +25 degrees Celsius, away from moisture, direct light, and EMI. Shelf life — 12 months. After opening the package, use within 30 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Gastrodia elata

General toxicity studies have shown a high degree of biosafety of Gastrodia elata. According to in vivo data, rhizome extracts do not cause death even at high doses. A study conducted on mice established that oral administration of aqueous gastrodia extract at a dose of up to 15 g/kg body weight does not cause signs of acute toxicity, which allows the substance to be classified as practically non-toxic.

LD₅₀ values under experimental conditions exceed 15,000 mg/kg orally in mice, which corresponds to the IV hazard class according to the WHO classification (low-toxicity substances). With long-term use at therapeutic doses in animals, no cumulative effect, changes in the morphology of the liver, kidneys, or nervous tissue were noted.

Also, no mutagenic or carcinogenic effects of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of gastrodia were detected in studies. No data on toxicity with external use have been registered.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacodynamics — Gastrodia elata

Gastrodia elata exhibits pronounced multi-level pharmacodynamic action, covering the central nervous, vascular, autonomic, as well as immune and skin regulatory systems. Studies indicate the ability of active substances of the taxon to influence mediator cascades and receptor targets, including GABAergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic transmission. The main effects are realized through the activation of inhibitory neurons and stabilization of neuronal excitability, which is accompanied by a decrease in pathological spike activity and a reduction in the level of excitatory amino acids, in particular glutamate.

The modulating effect on vascular tone is provided by effects on endothelium-dependent mechanisms, including through increased nitric oxide synthesis and improved microcirculation. Neurovascular interactions are regulated against the background of a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, which confirms the anti-inflammatory and anti-cytokine effect of the drug. Antioxidant activity is also observed, expressed in the suppression of free radical activity and stabilization of the structure of lipid membranes.

Sedative and anxiolytic effects are formed through synergistic action on GABAA-type receptors and enhancement of inhibitory mechanisms in the structures of the limbic system. Normalization of circadian rhythms and modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis have been confirmed, indicating a systemic effect on endocrine regulatory circuits.

In addition, an effect on the expression of growth factors (for example, NGF and BDNF) has been shown, indicating potential neurotrophic activity. With external use, local anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, and microcirculation-normalizing effects are manifested. It has been established that active components of gastrodia can affect cellular signaling pathways, including MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt, which indicates a systemic modulating effect.

Given the wide range of interactions with physiological targets, Gastrodia elata can be considered a polyeffector agent with a complex systemic and local effect aimed at stabilizing homeostatic functions, neurovegetative balance, and anti-inflammatory protection.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacokinetics — Gastrodia elata

The pharmacokinetic properties of Gastrodia elata depend on the dosage form and route of administration. With oral use (in the form of powder, extract, or tincture), absorption occurs in the upper parts of the small intestine, mainly by passive transport. Substances present in aqueous and alcoholic extracts demonstrate resistance to gastric juice and enzymes, which allows active compounds to reach the systemic circulation in a biologically active form. Biopharmaceutical studies have shown that compounds with neurotropic activity can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the structures of the brain.

With transdermal and rectal administration, components quickly reach the systemic circulation, bypassing the first-pass effect through the liver. This provides more stable levels of active substances and potentially reduces the load on the hepatic detoxification system. External forms (ointments, creams, infusions) act locally, penetrating into the dermal and subdermal layers, where they can interact with peripheral nerve endings and microcirculatory elements.

The metabolism of active substances occurs mainly in the liver, where they undergo biotransformation with the participation of monooxygenase system enzymes. The resulting metabolites, as a rule, have lower activity and high polarity, which facilitates their further elimination. The main route of elimination is through the kidneys with urine. Some substances may be excreted with bile, especially with the use of fat-soluble components. With external use, metabolic products may also partially leave the body through the skin and sebaceous glands.

Partial biotransformation in the intestine under the action of microflora is possible, especially in patients with impaired barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract. Against the background of prolonged use, accumulation of lipophilic metabolites in adipose tissue is possible, which may increase the duration of action, especially with the use of oil extracts. Elimination occurs within several days, without pronounced accumulation when therapeutic doses are observed.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Gastrodia elata

The pharmacological activity of Gastrodia elata is due to the presence of specific phenolic glycosides, such as gastrodin, as well as their derivatives, which have the ability to modulate signaling and receptor cascades of the central and autonomic nervous systems. One of the confirmed mechanisms of action is the inhibition of the activity of excitatory amino acids, including glutamate, through suppression of NMDA receptor activation and blockade of the calcium ion transport cascade in neurons. This is accompanied by a decrease in neurotoxicity and restoration of synaptic stability.

Gastrodin affects GABAergic transmission, increasing the levels of γ-aminobutyric acid in the structures of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, which determines anxiolytic and sedative effects. Along with this, a decrease in the activity of monoamine oxidase type B has been recorded, which potentially contributes to an increase in the level of dopamine and serotonin in the synaptic clefts. This effect is realized through inhibition of the degradation of biogenic amines and stabilization of neurotransmitter metabolism.

Additional studies demonstrate an anti-inflammatory effect associated with inhibition of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, in particular TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, through suppression of the activity of NF-κB and the MAPK signaling pathway. This ensures a reduction in neuroinflammation and cellular hyperactivity, especially in microglia and astrocytes. In parallel, suppression of the activity of microRNAs involved in the regulation of inflammatory cascades has been identified.

Antioxidant properties are realized through an increase in the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which reduces the level of lipid peroxidation in neurons and endothelium. A modulating effect on calcium channels and maintenance of ion homeostasis under conditions of oxidative and metabolic stress are noted.

The participation of Gastrodia elata in the regulation of neurotrophic factors — in particular, NGF and BDNF — has also been described, which contributes to neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity, and restoration of damaged neural circuits. The effect on the vascular endothelium is realized through induction of eNOS expression, which promotes the production of nitric oxide and improves tissue perfusion.

Thus, the mechanisms of action of Gastrodia elata cover neuromodulation, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory and vasoregulatory effects, mediated by multiple enzymatic and receptor systems.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Synergy — Gastrodia elata

The pharmacological synergy of Gastrodia elata with other medicinal plants and natural compounds has been studied in a number of in vitro and in vivo experiments. One of the most confirmed synergistic effects is the potentiation of anxiolytic and sedative activity when used together with components acting on GABA receptors, such as extracts of Valeriana officinalis and Ziziphus jujuba. This is due to the additive effect on γ-aminobutyric acid and the enhancement of inhibitory neurotransmitter activity in the structures of the central nervous system.

Synergy with Panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba has been proven with respect to neurotrophic and antioxidant effects. Together, these plants activate the production of BDNF and improve neuronal trophicity, reducing apoptosis and enhancing the restoration of neural networks. At the same time, joint regulation of the PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, involved in cell survival and plasticity, occurs.

When combined with Polygala tenuifolia, an enhancement of the nootropic and adaptogenic effect is observed. This is realized through modulation of the expression of synaptic proteins and enhancement of transmission in dopaminergic and serotonergic synapses, which has been experimentally confirmed in models of emotional instability and attention disorders.

A modulating effect in combination with Curcuma longa has also been described, in which anti-cytokine activity is enhanced through co-inhibition of the NF-κB and JAK/STAT pathways. Such a combination allows achieving a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect at minimal doses of each component.

Thus, Gastrodia elata demonstrates potentiating and additive interaction with a number of neurotropic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory plant agents, which makes it a promising component of multicomponent formulations with systemic orientation.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.frontiersin.org/ar...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Gastrodia elata

Gastrodia elata is traditionally used in the ethnomedical systems of East Asia, primarily in China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and northern Thailand. In the Chinese pharmacopoeia, it is known under the name "tianma" and is included in classical formulations with a deep historical tradition. The use of the plant dates back, according to written sources, to the Eastern Han period (25–220 AD), where it is first mentioned in the "Shennong Bencao Jing" as a substance with calming and "wind-subduing" properties. The plant is widely cultivated in the mountainous areas of Yunnan, Sichuan, Hubei, and Guangxi provinces.

In the Korean tradition, gastrodia is used in the hanyak formulation — a local system of herbal medicine, where it is boiled in rhizome decoctions, used in the form of concentrated tinctures, or powders. Among the peoples of the Vietnamese mountain provinces, especially the Hmong and Thai ethnic groups, the plant was used in pastes prepared by grinding tubers with other roots for rubbing the occipital and chest areas. In some cases, smoking of dried tubers was also used for ritual purposes associated with the expulsion of wind diseases and the induction of mental clarity.

In Tibetan medicine, gastrodia was associated with the balance of "lung" (wind) energy and was used to restore internal balance. Tibetan herbalists mention the plant under the name "wekdong" and use it in oil macerates, which were rubbed into the crown area and neck region as part of ritual purification practices.

In the territory of northern Thailand and Laos, gastrodia rhizomes were included in herbal mixtures in the "sai-yai" tradition — a folk phytotherapy direction associated with temple medicine and the knowledge of monks. Here, the plant is considered a "mind-strengthening plant" and belongs to the category of "clear beginning," associated with the energy of ancestors. Methods of wrapping the head with tianma decoction during trance practices, meditations, and rituals in honor of the dead were used.

In the non-medical context, in the culture of the peoples of Southern China and northern Vietnam, gastrodia was used in rituals of protection from evil — dried tubers were hung over the entrance to the house, considering them amulets against diseases and the evil eye. In some shamanic practices, bundles of roots left in the smoke of incense were used as means for inducing dreams and predictions.

Ethnobotanical descriptions also indicate that in ancient Japanese rituals, gastrodia tubers were used as a ritual component in ceremonies of pacifying ancestral spirits during the autumn festivals.