Fructus Arctii (Niubangzi) (long and flat, grayish-brown, sparsely purplish-black spots, dense reticulate pattern, blunt and round apex with a ring, narrow base with light color)

【Naming】

Fructus Arctii (Niubangzi)

 【Source】

Shen Nong’s Classic of Materia Medica (Bielu, Middle Grade)

 【Commonly Used Degree】

C

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried ripe fruit of Arctium lappa L. in the family Asteraceae.

 【Appearance】

The achene is long, flat, ovate, slightly curved, about 6mm long and about 3mm in diameter in the middle. The outer skin is grayish-brown with several slightly raised longitudinal lines, the middle one being more obvious. The whole body has sparse spots and also resembles a dense reticulate pattern. One end is slightly narrower and slightly curved, with a light-colored small dot on the top; the other end is blunt and round, slightly wider, with a small pit. The longitudinal surface is slightly raised, and the edge is smooth and thick. The outer skin is relatively hard. After breaking open, the two kernels are two halves, grayish-white, and rich in oil. Odorless, slightly bitter taste.

 【Identification】

Superior quality is indicated by dryness, large size, plumpness, bluish-gray color, clear patterns, no impurities, and no ash content.

 【Category】

Fruits