Herb comparison
Corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo) vs Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Both plants are listed as traditional remedies for 2 of the same conditions, which is why they are easy to confuse. Their descriptions and full safety notes are below, free.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) is restricted
Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.
- About
- Corydalis is a small herbaceous perennial growing to 8 inches with narrow leaves and pink flowers. Native to Siberia, northern China, and Japan, it is commonly cultivated in eastern and northeastern parts of China. Propagated from seed in early spring or autumn, the rhizome is harvested in late spring and early summer when the aerial parts have withered. It has been part of Chinese herbal medicine since at least the 8th century.Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) is a low-lying evergreen shrub, reaching about 6 in (15 cm), with oval leathery leaves, small bell-shaped flowers, and bright red berries. It is known primarily for its oil, which contains methyl salicylate.
- Safety & precautions
- Do not take during pregnancy. Its alkaloids act on the central nervous system; use it only with professional guidance.Essential Oil (Topical Only): Undiluted, it can trigger dermatitis; do not ingest. Aspirin Sensitivity: Those allergic or sensitive to aspirin should avoid wintergreen (it contains salicylates). Children: Exercise caution applying the oil topically to young children (under professional advice).
Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.