Wu Yi (square, many small holes, light and brittle, copper coin-shaped elm samara, stinky)
【Naming】
【Source】
Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, Middle Grade
【Common Usage Level】
E
【Botanical Origin】
The processed fruit of Ulmus macrocarpa Hance (Large-fruited Elm), family Ulmaceae.
【Characteristics】
It is in the shape of a square block, with a brownish-yellow surface and numerous small holes. It is light in weight, loose, and brittle. The fracture surface is yellowish-black and easily peels off in a scaly manner. Copper coin-shaped winged fruits (elm fruits) can be seen in the fragments. It has a peculiar odor and a slightly sour and astringent taste.
【Identification】
Zheng Lei Ben Cao: “The aged ones are good,” “The ones with a muttony odor are good.” Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing Zan: “Fan Li’s Ji Ran says Wu Yi is on the ground. The ones with a red core are good.” Ben Cao Cheng Ya Ban Jie: “For medicinal use, large Wu Yi is preferred, and the aged ones are the best.” Ben Cao Bei Yao: “Its shape is similar to elm pods, and the aged ones with a muttony odor are good.”
It is best to choose the ones that are dry, square, intact, without fragments, with more fruits, flowers, and leaves, and less dirt.
【Category】
Other Categories