- Manchurian thorn tree (Aralia mandshurica) is a member of the Araliaceae family and is native to the eastern regions of Russia, northern China, and Korea.
- The bark, roots, and flowers of Manchurian thorn have been used traditionally to treat a wide range of conditions. Teas made from different parts of the tree were historically used in Russia to treat fatigue, weakness, headaches, depression, immune weakness, and stress.
- Manchurian thorn is often prepared in combination with other herbs. The combination product Araloxâ„¢ contains A. mandshurica and Engelhardtia chrysolepis. Research suggests that Araloxâ„¢ may decrease fat and body weight in non-exercising, obese, otherwise healthy women. Preliminary evidence suggests that Manchurian thorn may protect against some forms of irregular heartbeat and radiation damage.