Cyperus Rhizome

November 3, 2025

Cyperus Rhizome (Spindle-shaped, brownish-brown, longitudinal wrinkles, raised segments, hair-like fibers)

Large Cyperus Rhizome

Cyperus Rhizome Slices

Cyperus Rhizome Slices

Vinegar-processed Cyperus Rhizome Slices

【Naming】

Cyperus Rhizome

 【Source】

Shen Nong’s Herbal Classic, Middle Grade

 【Frequency of Use】

A

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried rhizome of Nutgrass Galingale Cyperus rotundus L.

 【Appearance】

Mostly spindle-shaped or cylindrical, sometimes slightly curved. Length 1.5~4.5㎝, diameter 5~10㎜. The surface is brownish-brown or dark brownish-black, sometimes scorched black (burned), with longitudinal wrinkles and several raised segments. The segments have fine, brownish-yellow, long, hair-like fibers. The surface of the rhizome often shows residual fine roots or root scars. If the hair-like fibers are completely removed, the appearance is smooth and the segments are not obvious. The texture is hard.
Prepared slices are transverse or longitudinal thin slices, transverse slices are nearly circular, about 1~3㎜ thick, brown, with dark brownish-black edges, the color is slightly lighter near the center, the inner cortex is obvious, and white dot-like vascular bundles are scattered in the cortex and stele. Longitudinal slices are oblong and flaky, vascular bundles are white and linear, the aroma is fragrant, and the taste is slightly bitter. Prepared Cyperus Rhizome: Dark brown.

 【Processing】

1. Raw Cyperus Rhizome 2. Vinegar-processed Cyperus Rhizome 3. Four-fold Prepared Cyperus Rhizome

 【Identification】

The best quality are those that are large and plump, with a purplish-red and lustrous color, firm texture, and strong aroma. Those that are small, light, wrinkled, and have a faint aroma are second best.

 【Identification Terminology】

1. Brown fibers: refers to the scale leaves of Cyperus Rhizome medicinal material appearing as yellowish-brown strips at their midribs. Microscopic examination reveals obvious annular and spiral vessels. Thin-walled cells are sometimes attached to both sides of the midrib.

 【Category】

Rhizomes