Lysimachia foenumgraecum (Stem cylindrical, lower stem nodes with fine roots, whisker-like; leaves alternate, wrinkled, flattened ovate, cuneate base with wings)
Lysimachia foenumgraecum (Axils sometimes showing spherical capsules)
【Naming】
【Source】
Illustrated Materia Medica
【Frequency of Use】
F
【Botanical Origin】
The whole herb of Lysimachia foenumgraecum Hance, belonging to the Primulaceae family.
【Characteristics】
The stem is cylindrical, surface is gray-green or dark green, 7-40cm long and about 3mm in diameter, with longitudinal lines and winged ridges, the edges of the ridges often roll inward. Fine, whisker-like, brown roots grow on the nodes of the lower stem; brittle in texture, easily broken, the cross-section is approximately circular and yellowish-white. Leaves are alternate, leaf blades are mostly wrinkled, and flattened, they are ovate or elliptical, 5-10cm long and 2-5cm wide, with a slightly pointed tip and a cuneate base with wings. Papery in texture, with petioles. Spherical capsules are sometimes visible in the leaf axils, off-white in color, the fruit stalks are slender, up to 3.5cm long, and have persistent sepals. The pericarp is thin, containing numerous small, triangular, brown seeds. It has a strong fragrance and a slightly pungent and bitter taste.
【Identification】
The best quality has tender and thin stems and leaves, a gray-green color, and a strong fragrance.
【Category】
Whole Herb