Ze Lan (Lycopus)
Ze Lan (Lycopus)(Roughleaf Bugleweed Sprout)(Square stem with few branches, yellowish-green to purple, covered in white villi, brittle, leaves lanceolate-oblong)
【Naming】
【Source】
Classified as Medium Grade in the Classic of Herbal Medicine
【Frequency of Use】
C
【Botanical Origin】
The dried stems and leaves of Lycopus lucidus Turcz., family Labiatae.
【Characteristics】
The stem is square, of varying lengths, with distinct nodes, 30~40cm long, 2~5mm in diameter, the surface is brown or slightly purple, each side has a longitudinal groove, the texture is light and brittle, easily broken, the cross-section has a white pith in the center or is hollow. The leaves are opposite, mostly wrinkled, the surface is dark green, the back is gray-green, densely covered with glandular dots, lanceolate, the edges have coarse serrations. Bracts and sepals are persistent on the stem, shaped like awls, some leaf axils have small flowers clustered in whorls, odorless and tasteless.
Processed Herb: Chopped stems and leaves, about 3mm long, brown or dark brown, with irregular longitudinal stripes, the cross-section is white, the pith is obvious, the leaves are more fragmented and dark green.
【Identification】
The whole plant should be dry, with abundant leaves and firm stems, and with flower branches. Tender quality is best.
【Category】
Whole Herb