【Naming】

Torreya Seed

 【Source】

Listed in the Miscellaneous Records

 【Common Use Level】

F

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried, mature seeds of Torreya grandis Fort. of the Taxaceae family.

 【Characteristics】

The dried seeds are oval-oblong, 2-4 cm long and 1.3-2 cm in diameter. The surface is grayish-yellow or light yellowish-brown, with longitudinal wrinkles. One end is blunt and round, with an oval scar-like hilum, and the other end is slightly pointed. The outer shell is hard and brittle, and when broken open, the inner surface is reddish-brown with a marbled pattern. The kernel is oval-oblong, wrinkled and firm, with a grayish-brown wrinkled membrane on the surface. The endosperm is yellowish-white and oily. It has a slightly fragrant odor and a slightly sweet taste.

 【Identification】

《Compendium of Materia Medica》: “The small ones with solid kernels are the best.”
The best ones are dry, large, plump, unbroken, not rancid or deteriorated, and free from insect damage.

 【Category】

Seeds