Gifts of Siberia: Hedysarum

A Chapter Revealing How a Modest Plant Holds a Secret Pharmacy in Its Roots and Leaves, One That Offers the Gifts of Health and Fortitude

Across the boundless expanses of Siberia, upon mountain slopes, meadows, and riverbanks, grows a remarkable plant – the Hedysarum. This nature's gift has aided people in fighting sickness for centuries. Its unique composition and wide range of effects make it a valuable plant both in folk and conventional medicine. Let us take a closer look.

Nature's Green "Sweetness"

Hedysarum (lat. Hedysarum) is a genus of perennial herbs, less often semi-shrubs, within the legume family (Fabaceae). Its Latin name, Hedysarum, comes from the Greek words hedys (“sweet”) and aroma (“fragrance”), reflecting the pleasant scent of its flowers.

The plant features straight or branching stems, standing anywhere from 20 cm to 1.5 meters tall. Its leaves are odd-pinnate, made up of several pairs of oval or lance-shaped leaflets. The flowers bloom in raceme-like clusters in shades of pink, purple, violet, or white. The fruit is a loment, a type of segmented pod which splits into individual coin-shaped segments upon ripening.

The genus includes roughly 150 species, many of which are known for their beneficial properties. Hedysarum is widespread in temperate and cold regions across the Northern Hemisphere. Russia is home to about 50 species, especially many found in Siberia and the Far East. Some species, like Hedysarum turczaninóvii, are in the Red List.

Siberian Hedysarum and Its Secret Power

In Siberia, these plants are found across various administrative regions: Altai Krai, the Altai Republic, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Khakassia, Tyva, and Irkutsk Oblast. They favour meadows, mountain slopes, river and lake banks, thriving in neutral or slightly acidic soil. Hedysarum serves a triple purpose: It is valued as a medicinal remedy, a source of fodder, and an ornamental plant.

The widespread species include:

1. Hedysarum neglectum, found in the Altai and Sayan Mountains, containing unique antioxidants and adaptogens. Traditionally used in medicine to boost immunity and fight infections.
2. Hedysarum theinum, growing in Eastern Siberia, known for its pain-relieving, tonic, and general strengthening effects.
3. Hedysarum alpinum, common in mountainous areas. It has immunomodulatory properties and is used for anemia treatment and to enhance stamina and recovery. It is processed to produce Alpizarin, a drug for treating herpesvirus infections. Also utilized as a forage crop for livestock and as an ornamental plant in gardens.
4. Hedysarum austrosibiricum inhabits the alpine and subalpine meadows in highlands. It is valuable as a medicinal herb. Its brews have the power to lower blood pressure and exert a diuretic effect. It also serves as a fodder plant for deer, sheep, and horses.

Hedysarum neglectum, commonly known as "red root", due to the distinct color of its underground part, is most often harvested for its medicinal properties. It boasts a variety of biologically active components which contribute to its healing properties:

1. Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) help strengthen blood vessel walls, improve microcirculation, and provide an anti-inflammatory effect.

2. Xanthones (mangiferin, isomangiferin) act as potent antioxidants that boost the immune system, inhibit the release of inflammation-causing cytokines, and block viral replication. They also offer a neuroprotective effect, shielding neurons from oxidative stress.

3. Polysaccharides support the immune system function and exhibit antiviral activity.

4. Coumarins (umbelliferone) deliver mild spasmolytic effect and help prevent the formation of blood clots.

5. Saponins help stimulate glandular activity, which is why they can be used as an expectorant during respiratory illnesses; they also support urinary system health and increase resilience to stress.

6. Proanthocyanidins aid in tissue regeneration.

7. Amino acids and micronutrients (selenium, zinc, manganese) support metabolism and the immune system.

How Hedysarum Keeps You Well

With its rich composition, hedysarum offers a wide range of positive health benefits.

1. Strengthening the immune system
Xanthones and flavonoids stimulate interferon production, boosting the body’s resistance to viruses and bacteria. Providing a direct antiviral effect by inhibiting viral replication.

2. Adaptogenic effect
Hedysarum helps the body cope more easily with stress, physical exertion, and mental load, making it a natural alternative to ginseng.

3. Normalization of the cardiovascular system function
Flavonoids strengthen capillaries, enhancing blood flow and the nourishment of tissue; thus lowering the risk of atherosclerosis.

4. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects
The root extract is used for treating infections of the urinary and reproductive systems, including prostatitis in men.

5. Hemoglobin increase
Hedysarum is beneficial for anemia, as it improves the absorption of iron.

6. Liver protection
Antioxidants in the formula assist detoxification and support liver cell regeneration.

Red root is a key ingredient in the Renaissance Triple Set (a set for complex organism detoxification) as it helps to activate the immune system function.
The formula blends plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals offering thorough cleansing at the cellular and intercellular levels, along with antioxidant protection.

Did you know that Siberia is home to the hedysarum – a plant so modest in appearance, yet so rich in value?