Yunnan Baiyao for Dogs: Chinese Herb for Bleeding Dog Cancers
Dr. Demian Dressler is internationally recognized as “the dog cancer vet” because of his innovations in the field of dog cancer management, and the popularity of his blog here at Dog Cancer Blog. The owner of South Shore Veterinary Care, a full-service veterinary hospital in Maui, Hawaii, Dr. Dressler studied Animal Physiology and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California at Davis before earning his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. After practicing at Killewald Animal Hospital in Amherst, New York, he returned to his home state, Hawaii, to practice at the East Honolulu Pet Hospital before heading home to Maui to open his own hospital. Dr. Dressler consults both dog lovers and veterinary professionals, and is sought after as a speaker on topics ranging from the links between lifestyle choices and disease, nutrition and cancer, and animal ethics. His television appearances include “Ask the Vet” segments on local news programs. He is the author of The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum Treatments to Optimize Your Dog’s Life Quality and Longevity. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Hawaii Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Avian Veterinarians, the National Animal Supplement Council and CORE (Comparative Orthopedic Research Evaluation). He is also an advisory board member for Pacific Primate Sanctuary.
Updated: April 27th, 2023
Summary
Yunnan baiyao for dogs with cancer may sound weird because it’s used for bleeding problems. But in certain cases, it is really useful.
Today’s article is about an herb from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): yunnan baiyao for dogs with cancer. Yes, the chinese herb, also spelled yunnan paiyao, can be used in some cancers.
This episode of our podcast Dog Cancer Answers addresses yunnan baiyao.
Bleeding Cancer Causes
Some canine cancers are associated with bleeding, like internal hemangiosarcomas. Hemangiosarcomas are tumors that occur in the linings of the blood vessels, so they can be pretty bloody.
But even other types of cancers can bleed. For example, sometimes chemotherapy drugs increase bleeding tendencies. Sometimes tumors rupture, and internal bleeding results.
Again, not every tumor is bloody. But when they are, finding a way to control that internal bleeding is a good idea.
Especially nice would be something that can be given in a capsule at home.
A Supplement That Stops Bleeding??
Conventional veterinary medicine teaches us that there is no such thing. But hey, let’s remember: there is more to healing than what we may have been exposed to here in the West. My alma mater is consistently ranked number one or two best veterinary school in the nation, but I didn’t learn about supplements until I started my own studies.
Yunnan baiyao is a good example. This is a well-known treatment in China. Its name means “The white medicine from Yunnan province.”
It’s well researched in China, and, perhaps more importantly, comes from a medical tradition that has been in existence for thousands of years. Our Western medical researchers are beginning to show interest, and so far, most studies here show that there are reasons to study it more.
Yunnan baiyao is a blend of herbal ingredients, not one single plant. Here in the West, we’re used to thinking about individual treatments for individual problems. Supplements are usually made of only one ingredient.
That’s not the way TCM thinks about remedies or treatments. With their thousands of years of experience, they often make blends of several different components. Yunnan baiyao is no exception.
The precise recipe is a guarded secret in China, but the ingredients include various yam roots, ox gall bladder, pseudoginseng, and sweet geranium.
How Yunnan Baiyao Works (we think)
It seems that yunnan baiyao activates the platelets, the tiny blood cells that help form clots. Why is this important?
Well, because blood clots are the first step in a scab. When platelets are active, they form little plugs, or little corks. That’s the way they stop a hemorrhage.
Think of the last time you cut yourself. Remember how the blood flowed, and then slowed down, and a red oozy mass formed? That’s your platelets in action.
So we think when a dog takes yunnan baiyao, the herbal formula activates the platelets, which slow bleeding down and help stop it.
Keep in mind that this remedy is not fully understood, and there are some veterinarians who just don’t think using it is worth it. But there are plenty who disagree and feel that as long as it’s safe, using it in serious cases is warranted.
For more tools to help fight dog cancer that you may have not heard of, get a copy of The Dog Cancer Survival Guide.
When To Use Yunnan Baiyao
I wouldn’t recommend using yunnan baiyao without consulting with your veterinarian. It might not be necessary for your dog’s specific case. But if your dog is having internal bleeds, or if your dog has the bloody cancer called hemangiosarcoma, your veterinarian might want to use it to help control bleeding.
How much to give? The following dosing is a bit rough. These are general guidelines that you should check out with your veterinarian:
- For dogs under 10 lbs, give 1 capsule by mouth one time a day.
- For dogs from 10 to 30 lbs, give 1 capsule by mouth two times a day.
- For dogs above 30 but less than 60 lbs, give 2 capsules two times a day.
- For dogs above 60 lbs, give 2 capsules three times a day.
Do not give Yunnan baiyao on an ongoing basis. It is best to give it on alternating days, or for a 5-day on, 5-day off cycle that repeats. You should also be aware that there is some evidence that this medicine may elevate liver markers if given daily for prolonged periods of time.
Best to all,
Dr D
Editor’s Note: Where to Buy Yunnan Baiyao
It is not as easy to get yunnan baiyao online as it once was. If your veterinarian doesn’t sell it (and most who recommend it do), the best bet is to check your local supplement store, particularly if they stock other TCM remedies. If they don’t stock it, you might ask your veterinarian to order it for you from Jin Tang http://tcvmherbal.com/. You can also try Pine Street Clinic: https://pinestreetclinic.com/products/yunnan-baiyao
Further Reading & References
Brennen McKenzie, MA, MSc, VMD, cVMA, Yunnan baiyao for patients with hemorrhage, neoplasia, Veterinary Practice News, December 11, 2017
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s discussion on Yunnan Baiyao
Institute of Traditional Medicine Discussion of Yunnan Baiyao
Tansey C, Wiebe ML, Hybki GC, Patlogar JE, Murphy LA, Bianco D, Nakamura RK. A prospective evaluation of oral Yunnan Baiyao therapy on thromboleastographic parameters in apparently healthy dogs. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2018 May;28(3):221-225. doi: 10.1111/vec.12712. PMID: 29727528
Morris BR, deLaforcade A, Lee J, Palmisano J, Meola D, Rozanski E. Effects of in vitro hemodilution with crystalloids, colloids, and plasma on canine whole blood coagulation as determined by kaolin-activated thromboelastography. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2016 Jan-Feb;26(1):58-63. doi: 10.1111/vec.12345. Epub 2015 Jul 28. PubMed PMID: 26220153.
Ness SL, Frye AH, Divers TJ, Rishniw M, Erb HN, Brooks MB. Randomized placebo-controlled study of the effects of Yunnan Baiyao on hemostasis in horses. Am J Vet Res. 2017 Aug;78(8):969-976. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.78.8.969. PubMed PMID: 28738008.
Lee A, Boysen SR, Sanderson J, Wagg CR, Chalhoub S. Effects of Yunnan Baiyao on blood coagulation parameters in beagles measured using kaolin activated thromboelastography and more traditional methods. Int J Vet Sci Med. 2017 Apr 12;5(1):53-56. doi: 10.1016/j.ijvsm.2017.01.004. eCollection 2017 Jun. PMID: 30255049
Wiinberg B, Jensen AL, Rojkjaer R, Johansson P, Kjelgaard-Hansen M, Kristensen AT. Validation of human recombinant tissue factor-activated thromboelastography on citrated whole blood from clinically healthy dogs. Vet Clin Pathol. 2005 Dec;34(4):389-93. PubMed PMID: 16270265.
Frederick J, Boysen S, Wagg C, Chalhoub S. The effects of oral administration of Yunnan Baiyao on blood coagulation in beagle dogs as measured by kaolin-activated thromboelastography and buccal mucosal bleeding times. Can J Vet Res. 2017;81(1):41-45.
How One Company Brought Traditional Chinese Medicine To The Modern World And Made Billions, Forbes, Michael Schuman
Yunnan Baiyao – What’s the Clinical Evidence? by L. Graham
Dr. Demian Dressler is internationally recognized as “the dog cancer vet” because of his innovations in the field of dog cancer management, and the popularity of his blog here at Dog Cancer Blog. The owner of South Shore Veterinary Care, a full-service veterinary hospital in Maui, Hawaii, Dr. Dressler studied Animal Physiology and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California at Davis before earning his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. After practicing at Killewald Animal Hospital in Amherst, New York, he returned to his home state, Hawaii, to practice at the East Honolulu Pet Hospital before heading home to Maui to open his own hospital. Dr. Dressler consults both dog lovers and veterinary professionals, and is sought after as a speaker on topics ranging from the links between lifestyle choices and disease, nutrition and cancer, and animal ethics. His television appearances include “Ask the Vet” segments on local news programs. He is the author of The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum Treatments to Optimize Your Dog’s Life Quality and Longevity. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Hawaii Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Avian Veterinarians, the National Animal Supplement Council and CORE (Comparative Orthopedic Research Evaluation). He is also an advisory board member for Pacific Primate Sanctuary.
My 12 yr old golden recently had surgery to remove a 10 pound internal bleeding tumor. I was told he had multiple blood filled tumors that couldnt be removed. He also had his spleen removed a year ago. I started him on Yunnan Baiyo 3 capsules BID. Due to the bleeding risk of any of the additional tumors, I was under the impression that I should keep him on the herbal treatment long term. I also give him(Reishi/ashwaganda/astralgus/vitamin/shark cartilage and alfalfa) I give him 1/2 the dose suggested of the noted. **Could any of the noted herbs interfere with the Yunnan? **Should I give him the dose thats listed on the bottle?+ **can my dog stay on the Yunnan long term? Thank you
Dear Sue,
I doubt there will be interference, although I am wondering about your choice of supplements overall. Might be worth your while to check out the Guide for some clarification on supplements that may be more useful. In my patients, assuming liver and kidney function are okay, I usually use a half dose of apoptogens, a more well rounded immune support approach with a blend of medicinal mushrooms and modified citrus pectin, avoid the vitamins, avoid shark cartilage, as some ideas to get you started. I am not aware of adverse effects related to prolonged use of YB. Don’t forget to have your vet supervise treatments..
Best
Dr D
Hi Bruce, Our golden had a cardiac hemangeosarcoma that had ruptured and she was in cardiac failure. We rushed her to the ER and gave her 2 Emergency Yunnan Baiyao pills (the red ones that are like GOLD!) The ER Cardiologist said she had 1-2 hours tops so we figured we had nothing to lose. 14 hours later she popped up and fought us to get out of her gurney. She ran out the back door to relieve herself. We ended up keeping her on Yunnan Baiyao for the duration. She had one relapse 3 days after her ER visit at home and we gave her an emergency Red pill and 4 hours later she was back with us, but her cardiologist, internist, and our holistic vet decided to put her on 1 capsule 3x/ day. After 3 months the hemangeosarcoma solidified and started to shrink. (We did use other supplements including a mushroom formula, and ozone therapy, and monitored her blood pretty regularly.) In her case I do not believe it helped spread any cancer. That being said, I’ve read what you’ve read and have a dog with a mass in his brain now and our new holistic vet suggested yunnan baiyao to help shrink the mass and I’m nervous about doing it even though we’ve had a very good response to it before with constant use. He doesn’t have any bleeds, and isn’t in danger of bleeding, the vet said she’s seen it help shrink cancers in other dogs she’s worked on. Just wanted to put that information out there. My recommendation is to go with your gut. I’ve found my gut is rarely wrong. It’s scary though sometimes.
hi my yellow lab was just diagnosed with mast cell tumor and a hemangiosarcoma on her spleen measuring 6 cm. She is on 20mg prednisone a day in two divided doses, pepcid ac, benadryl 50mg at night and k9 immunity. Should i be giving her y.b. on a regular basis or just if she shows signs of weakness? I am confused as to its use in her case. she is 10 years old and the only way we knew she was sick is her mast cell skin cancer on her hind end was bleeding like a scrap sore. she is drinking lots of water and peeing from the prednisone but otherwise happy
Dear Roberta,
have you read the Guide? Are you following the diet? Apoptogens (1/4 labeled dose with pred under veterinary supervision)? I would use y.b. continually in this case. No surgical removal of the mass possible? Chemo is not an option?
Best,
D
my golden has internal hemangeosarcoma and has recently had her spleen removed. i have recently decided to give her the yunan paiyo and then backed off when i read some info. that it may spread cancer. the question is do i or don’t i, i am having mixed feelings. she was given approx. 4 mos. to live, but i feel like there is much more that can be done to help her. she is 7 yrs old and has recovered excellent from surgery, it has only been 10 days, but she is back to her old self.
It worked for my 40lb pooch who is two months shy of 15yr, he has a very large tumor on his hind leg which began to ooze and bleed(suspect it is mast cell tumor but didn’t want biopsy or anything invasive since he is elderly). Our vet gave him antibiotics for 2 weeks, antibacterial soap, and Animax. It got better but within a week it oozed again. Then I remembered Yunnan Baiyoa that many of my relatives had used for very bad cuts with good results. I googled and found it was safe for dogs (Thanks, Dr D). I sprinkled a thin coating of powder several times a day and whenever it was oozing and soon it dried up. It doesn’t look as red and angry anymore. Of course we are not looking for it to miraculously disappear but it has made him less uncomfortable.
ell
YES! Try the yunnan baiyao! I lost my goldendoodle Ellie in 9/09 to hemangiosarcoma. We found out about Y.B. right at the very end and I wish so much that we had learned about it earlier. There is no doubt this herbal mixture saved Ellie more than once. It was just too late for it to be a long-term answer. You need to know there are the regular pills PLUS small red emergency pills that can help with extreme anemia and shock – you may not need the emergency ones unless things get very serious. If you have a blister-pack of regular pills, there should be an emergency pill right in the middle of the pack — it’s very easy to overlook. If there is no holistic vet near you that can sell you the Y.B., you may be able to get it from a Chinese herbalist (if there is one nearby). You can certainly get it online, but I suggest you get this ASAP. If you do not have a holistic vet nearby that can help you with dosing, etc. . . then you should at least try to find one that will give you info over the phone or via e-mail. You will not regret trying this amazing herb! Please also consider K9-Immunity!
My 10 yr. old golden retriever Jackson, was diagnosed with an oral tumor called acanthomatous ameloblastoma in July 2009. Surgury was not deemed appropriate. Believe me, we would have done anything to take this thing away for him. We have been using palliative care since and up until three weeks ago, we were all able to manage it pretty well for him.
But then the bleeding started out of his mouth and our vet said that the tumor was eating away the gingiva in his mouth. We’ve been periodically using ice packs and pressure in his mouth and on the outside on the tumor when the bleeds occur but my vet had no other suggestions to stop the bleeds. Under the guidance of a woman who’s been using essential oils to help with canine issues, we used cypress oil in diluted form inside and outside on the tumor. He also was taking Inisitol IP6 and a herbal tincture hoxsey as well as a chinese herbal mix to support immunity. But as the bleeding increased and clots came out of his mouth, I backed off of all of it and he’s a bit better with the bleeds-less frequently and less blood. But perhaps it’s gone on too long now since his gums are now beginning to pale a bit indicating anemia. Should I consider giving him yunnan baiyao to halt the bleeding and something to help with the anemia? We are feeding him very wet Honest Kitchen dehydrated raw food. Everythingihng he takes must be in a soup form. He is tired, yet he still loves to walk around outside and look for chipmunks in our landcaped stone walls and he still loves his meals and the sound of the cookie jar opening. He is such a dear, sweet boy. Thank goodness you are here helping people through these issues. My helplessness with this comes from my vets inability to offer much, since surgery and medications are not appropriate for him.
Please let me know if you think the yunnan baiyao is appropriate for him as well as something for anemia. THANK YOU.
Barb, these are very tough. Use the yunnan paiyao with your vet’s supervision. Another idea is injectable Neoplasene available from Buck Mountain. Have your vet call Dr. Buck, who makes it. It can be injected in the tissue around the tumor. For more ideas, check out the Dog Cancer Survival Guide.
Best,
Dr D
my 12 year old dachsund has just been diagnosed with a cancerous mass around the adrenal glands invading the vena cava – he has cushing disease and pericardial effusion.. retroperitoneal hemorrage.
I am going to a second opinion since the emergency clinic recommended authanesia.
My dog has a cancerous bladder tumor. I opted for non-surgical remedies which have slowed the progression down and she has already beaten the odds big time. However, while walking my dog, she tends to “mark” a lot and after marking quite a few times, only blood comes out from her vulva area. Perhaps Yunnan paiyao would aid in clotting the capillaries in the tumor?
Judith, it is worth a try. Please use under veterinary supervision. Good luck and hope it helps,
D
On the topic of alternative treatments do you know anything about an enzyme called serrapeptase?
It is supposed to stop ‘unhealthy inflammation and clear inflamed dead tissue’and supposedly has been effective in treating animals when more conventional treatments have failed..