Leek Seed (Semi-oblong, ovoid, flattened, one side flat and concave, one side raised, black, rough, dense, irregular network of wrinkles, blunt rounded top, sharp base, hard and pungent)

(Top right) Croton Seed (Bottom right) Prunus Seed (Top left) Radish Seed (Bottom left) Fenugreek Seed

【Naming】

Leek Seed

 【Source】

Recorded in the “Bie Lu” (Miscellaneous Records) as a middle-grade herb

 【Common Use Level】

E

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried, ripe seeds of the leek, Allium tuberosum Rottler., of the Liliaceae family.

 【Characteristics】

It is flat, oval or somewhat triangular, flat-oval in shape, with one side flat or slightly concave and the other side slightly raised. The top is blunt and the base is slightly pointed, 3~4㎜ long and 2~3㎜ wide. The surface is black, with irregular network wrinkles. The base has a hilum, which is protruding, slightly pointed, and grayish-brown. Under a magnifying glass, a longitudinal section shows that the seed coat is thin and wrinkled, the embryo is white and curved, and the endosperm is grayish-white. It is hard in texture. The cross-section is grayish-yellow and rich in oil. It has a unique odor and a spicy taste, and tastes like leeks when chewed.

 【Identification】

The best quality seeds are those that are black, plump, and free of fruit peel impurities.

 【Category】

Seeds