Northern Bean Root
This product is the dried rhizome of Menispermum dauricum DC., a plant from the Menispermaceae family. Harvested in spring and autumn, after removing fine roots and sand, dry thoroughly.
【Characteristics】The rhizome is long, slender, cylindrical, curved, branched, up to 50cm in length, 0.3–0.8cm in diameter. Surface ranges from yellowish-brown to dark brown, often bearing numerous fine, twisted roots, prominent root scars, and longitudinal wrinkles. Outer skin easily peels off. Texture is tough, not easily broken. Cross-section uneven, fibrous, wood part pale yellow, arranged radially, central pith visible. Slight aroma, intensely bitter taste.
【Taste and Nature】Bitter, cold; mildly toxic. Enters lung, stomach, and large intestine meridians.
【Function and Indications】Clears heat and detoxifies, dispels wind and relieves pain. Used for sore throat, enteritis, dysentery, and rheumatic arthralgia.
【Dosage and Usage】3–9g.
【Storage】Keep in a dry place.
<Northern Bean Root>