Stemona sessilifolia (Stemona sessilifolia)

Other names: Stemona root, Bai tiao gen

Stemona sessile, also known as Stemona root or Bai tiao gen, is a traditional medicinal plant native to Asia, especially China, Japan and Southeast Asia. This bulbous plant is important in traditional Chinese medicine, where its roots are mainly used. The roots of Stemona sessile are very valuable for their medicinal properties, especially in respiratory diseases.

Extracts of Stemona sessile are used in a number of products. These include pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements and cosmetic products. In medicines and dietary supplements, stemonin, the main active ingredient of the roots, is used for its expectorant and antitussive effects, which help in the treatment of coughs, bronchitis and asthma. Stemona sessile also has anti-parasitic and insecticidal properties, and is therefore sometimes included in shampoos and other products against lice and fleas. Furthermore, its regenerative and antioxidant properties are used in cosmetics, where its extract is added to creams and serums for skin renewal and anti-aging.