Yin Chai Hu (Stellaria dichotoma) (Stellaria dichotoma)

Yin Chai Hu (Stellaria dichotoma) is a traditional Chinese medicinal root with the following key components: Bioactive compounds include triterpenoid saponins (primary active constituents, approximately 2-5% dry weight), flavonoids including isoflavones and flavonols (approximately 0.5-1.5% dry weight), and polysaccharides (approximately 3-8% dry weight) which contribute to immunomodulatory effects. Phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol are present in moderate concentrations (0.1-0.3% dry weight). Alkaloids are present in trace amounts (<0.1%). The root contains phenolic acids including caffeic and ferulic acid derivatives (approximately 0.2-0.8% dry weight) with antioxidant properties. Cyclopeptides unique to Stellaria species are notable bioactive constituents. Regarding macronutrients, as a dried medicinal root it contains primarily carbohydrates (60-70% dry weight), proteins (8-12% dry weight), and minimal fats (<2% dry weight). Micronutrients include calcium (150-300 mg/100g), potassium (200-400 mg/100g), magnesium (50-100 mg/100g), iron (5-15 mg/100g), and zinc (1-3 mg/100g). Bioavailability notes: active compounds are enhanced by decoction preparation; polysaccharide bioavailability improves with hot water extraction; fat-soluble phytosterols have limited bioavailability unless prepared with appropriate solvents; co-administration with other TCM herbs may synergistically enhance absorption.