White Lian Root
This product is the dried tuberous root of Ampelopsis japonica Makino, a plant from the grape family. Harvested in spring or autumn, dig up the roots, remove soil and fine roots, cut into longitudinal sections or oblique slices, then sun-dry.
【Appearance】Longitudinal sections are oval or nearly spindle-shaped, 4–10cm long, 1–2cm in diameter; cross-section edges often curl inward, with a prominent ridge in the center. Outer skin is reddish-brown or brownish-red, with longitudinal wrinkles, fine transverse lines, and horizontal lenticels, easily peeling off in layers, revealing light reddish-brown areas underneath. Oblique slices are ovate, 2.5–5cm long, 2–3cm wide; cross-section is whitish or light reddish-brown, showing radiating texture, thicker at edges, slightly curled or slightly curved. Light in weight, hard and brittle, easily broken, producing dust when snapped. Slight odor, sweet taste.
【Taste & Meridian Affinity】Bitter, slightly cold. Enters heart and stomach meridians.
【Function & Indications】Clears heat and detoxifies, disperses nodules and reduces swelling. Used for carbuncles, furuncles, boils, lymph node tuberculosis, burns and scalds.
【Dosage & Administration】4.5–9g; externally, use appropriate amount by boiling into decoction for washing or grinding into extremely fine powder and applying to affected area.
【Caution】Should not be used together with Aconite-class herbs.
【Storage】Keep in well-ventilated, dry place, prevent insect infestation.
<White Lian Root>