Zhuer Shen (Pearl Ginseng)
【Naming】
【Source】
Ben Cao Bei Yao (Essentials of Materia Medica)
【Commonly Used Degree】
F
【Botanical Origin】
The rhizome of Panax japomicus C.A. Mey. var. major (Burk.) C.Y.Wnet K.M. Fieng (Araliaceae).
【Characteristics】
The dried rhizomes are irregularly conical or irregularly rhomboid in shape, about 1.5-4cm long and 1-3cm in diameter. The surface is yellowish-brown to translucent amber in color, with a few being dark brown. It is rough, with obvious fine longitudinal wrinkles and raised remnants of branch roots, and occasionally bamboo-like nodes. The middle part has slightly ring-shaped wart-like protrusions and fine root marks. Some may have slightly sunken stem scars. It is hard in texture and not easily broken. The fractured surface is yellowish-white, uneven, granular, powdery, and has yellow spots. It has a special odor and a bitter taste.
【Identification】
The best quality are those that are large, plump, bright, and free of bamboo-like nodes and rough skin.
【Category】
Rhizomes