Yuxingcao (Houttuynia cordata) (Stem is flattened cylindrical, curved, brownish-yellow with longitudinal ridges, with remnants of fibrous root scars at the lower nodes, leaves spread out into a heart shape)

Yuxingcao (Houttuynia cordata) (Brittle and easily broken, shriveled, smells fishy when rubbed, strong and fresh smell)

【Naming】

Yuxingcao (Houttuynia cordata)

 【Source】

Bielu, Lower Grade

 【Common Usage Level】

C

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried whole plant of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. of the Saururaceae family.

 【Characteristics】

Extremely shriveled when dried. The stem is flattened cylindrical or nearly cylindrical, twisted and slender, about 10-30cm long and 2-4mm thick. The surface is light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown, with longitudinal wrinkles or fine grooves. The nodes are clearly visible, and there are remnants of fibrous root scars on the nodes near the lower part. The leaves are extremely shriveled and curled. When flattened, they are heart-shaped, with a dark yellowish-green to dark brown upper surface and a bluish-gray or brownish-yellow lower surface. Flower spikes are rare. The texture is slightly brittle and easily broken. It has a slightly fishy odor, which is more intense when fresh; the taste is slightly astringent.

 【Identification】

The best quality is light reddish-brown, with intact stems and leaves, and free from impurities such as soil.

 【Category】

Whole Herbs