Coptis chinensis, the Chinese goldthread, is a species of goldthread flowering plant native to China.

Etymology

Chemical constituents

The rhizomes of Coptis chinensis contain the isoquinoline alkaloids berberine, palmatine, and coptisine among others.

Traditional uses

Coptis chinensis is one of the 50 fundamental herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is called duǎn è huánglián. It has been proved to have anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐bacterial properties and to help to improve cardiovascular conditions.

Other uses

Because of the strong coloring quality of berberine, it has been traditionally used as a dye, especially for wool and other fibers.