Botanical Overview
Ye sheng ma (Actaea simplex) is a species in the Ranunculaceae family. The buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) includes herbs with alternate or basal leaves and showy flowers with numerous stamens and pistils. Many species contain protoanemonin and other acrid compounds that cause skin irritation. Despite their toxicity, several species have been used in traditional medicine for pain and inflammation. Although comprehensive ethnobotanical records are limited, phytochemical studies have identified 7 compounds in this species, suggesting potential medicinal value.
General Description
A clump-forming rhizomatous herbaceous perennial, its native range includes the Kamchatka, Sakhalin and Siberian regions of Russia, western China, Manchuria, Mongolia, Korea and Japan. Plants may be harmful if eaten, and the sap may irritate the skin. The genus name Actaea is the Latin name adopted by Linnaeus from Pliny. The specific epithet simplex means simple or unbranched. The common name “bugbane” refers to the fact that the leaves’ scent repels insects.
Family Context
The Ranunculaceae family is widely distributed in temperate regions. Notable medicinal members include:
- Black Cumin — 29 documented uses
- Goldenseal — 29 documented uses
- Bugbane — 28 documented uses
- Black Cohosh — 24 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Ye sheng ma has been recorded in 9 countries and territories worldwide, including Belarus, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 7 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Systematic pharmacological studies are needed to validate the traditional uses attributed to this species.