The only species in the genus Nandina although there are numerous cultivars. Originating in Japan, it has become an invasive weed in North America both through seed and rhizomatous spread.

N. domestica and its uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine. To read the full article look in references. Nandina domestica Thunb.: a review of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. Nandina domestica: Thunb. is a traditional Chinese herbal drug that has long been used in China and Japan for the treatment of colds, fevers, asthma, chronic bronchitis, conjunctivitis, whooping cough, pharyngeal tumors, etc. Published data have reported at least 366 constituents from N. domestica, including alkaloids, flavonoids, lignans, terpenoids, phenolic acids and their derivatives, fatty acids, and others. Of these, the isoquinoline alkaloids are considered characteristic markers for N. domestica. These alkaloids also showed the most promising bioactivities. The crude extracts or semi-purified constituents of N. domestica exhibit a variety of activities, including antitumor, dermatological, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and detoxification activities, as well as effects on respiratory system, etc. The fruit is considered poisonous when eaten raw, with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain as side effects after ingestion. Most traditional uses are supported by biological activities demonstrated in modern experimental studies, suggesting a potential medicinal value of N. domestica. However, more information is needed on its mechanisms of activity, pharmacokinetic profile of the constituents, and its safety and efficacy profile in humans.

Although called 'Heavenly Bamboo' it is a member of the Family Berberidaceae and not a bamboo.

Contains cyanogenic glycosides which liberate hydrogen cyanide when damaged. Nothing eats it. Pharmacists have also found a chemical in the sap, called nantenine, which is a potential antidote to poisoning by ecstasy with which it shares the same molecular shape.

It contains the alkaloid Nantenine which is an antagonist at alpha1 adrenergic receptors and 5-HT2a Serotonin receptor. While an antidote to the effects of ecstasy in animals it has no licence for human use as the problems of testing any medicine in children who take ecstasy are almost insurmountable.

Cyanide is liberated from damaged leaves by enzymes acting on cyanogenic glycosides in the leaf tissues. This toxicity doubtless contributes to the lack of predators affecting the plant. It is not eaten by rabbits or deer so is useful in gardens where these are a problem. Birds may eat the seeds, but excessive ingestion kills them - the birds at the College do not eat the seeds so they remain decorative most of the year.

In the HTA Guide to potentially Harmful Plants this plant is listed as: Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten