Herb Encyclopedia

Pinyin: Nán Fēi Zuì Qié

Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow-green flowers and red berries, native to the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the most important herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, where it has been used for over 3,000 years as a rasayana (rejuvenative) and adaptogen. The name "ashwagandha" means "smell of horse" in Sanskrit, referring to both its strong odor and its reputation for imparting the strength and vitality of a horse.

Pinyin: Dōng Chóng Xià Cǎo

Wild Cordyceps sinensis is a parasitic fungus that infects and eventually kills moth caterpillars underground, then grows a mushroom (fruiting body) from the caterpillar's head. This unique organism has been prized in Tibetan and Chinese medicine for centuries as the most powerful kidney and lung tonic. Wild Cordyceps is extremely rare and expensive (often $20,000+/kg). Most products today use cultivated Cordyceps militaris or CS-4 mycelium, which have similar benefits at a fraction of the cost.

Pinyin: Shēng Jiāng

Ginger is a tropical plant with tall stems and white-yellow flowers, grown for its aromatic, spicy rhizome. It is one of the most widely used medicinal and culinary herbs in the world. In Chinese medicine, ginger (Sheng Jiang) is considered an essential herb - it appears in more formulas than any other except licorice. Both fresh ginger (Sheng Jiang) and dried ginger (Gan Jiang) are used, with different properties.

Pinyin: Gǒu Qǐ Zi

Goji berries are the small, red-orange berries of the Lycium barbarum shrub, which grows in the Yellow River valley of northern China. They have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years as a liver and kidney yin tonic and longevity food. The best goji berries come from Zhongning County in Ningxia, where the mineral-rich soil from the Yellow River produces especially nutritious berries. Goji berries were introduced to the West as a "superfood" in the early 2000s.

Pinyin: Gāo Lí Hóng Shēn

Korean Red Ginseng is the steamed and dried root of 6-year-old Panax ginseng plants, cultivated primarily in South Korea. The steaming process changes the color from white/yellow to reddish-brown and transforms the ginsenoside profile, creating what is considered the most potent form of ginseng. It is one of the most revered herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, known as the "King of Herbs" for its wide-ranging health benefits.

Pinyin: Líng Zhī

Reishi (Lingzhi) is a shelf fungus that grows on the trunks of dead or dying hardwood trees, particularly maple, oak, and plum. It has a distinctive glossy, reddish-brown, kidney-shaped cap with a woody texture. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reishi is considered the most superior of all medicinal mushrooms and has been revered for over 2,000 years as the "Mushroom of Immortality." Wild Reishi is rare and highly prized; most Reishi today is cultivated on logs or sawdust.

Pinyin: Hóng Jǐng Tiān

Rhodiola rosea is a perennial flowering plant that grows in cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It has succulent leaves and yellow flowers with a rose-like fragrance. Rhodiola has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Russia, Scandinavia, and Tibet to cope with the cold, high altitude, and physical stress. It was a closely guarded secret of Siberian folk medicine for generations.

Pinyin: Lú Huì

Aloe vera is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves containing a clear gel and bitter yellow latex. It has been used for over 4,000 years for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes, with records from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China. There are two distinct products from aloe: the clear inner gel (used topically for burns and skin conditions, and internally as a tonic) and the bitter latex from the outer leaf (used as a strong laxative). They have very different uses and safety profiles.

Pinyin: Xī Yáng Shēn

American ginseng is a close relative of Korean ginseng but with a different energy profile. It is cooler and more yin-nourishing than Korean ginseng, making it better suited for people with heat signs or for use in hot weather. Wisconsin and Ontario produce the most famous American ginseng.

Pinyin: Chuān Xīn Lián

Andrographis is an annual herb with small white flowers and extremely bitter leaves. It is used in both Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine as a powerful cooling, detoxifying herb. In recent years, it has gained attention in the West for its immune-supporting and antiviral properties, particularly for upper respiratory infections.

Pinyin: Huáng Qí

Astragalus is a perennial legume with yellow flowers that grows in the dry, sandy regions of northern China and Mongolia. Its thick, fibrous roots have a sweet taste and are one of the most important qi-tonifying herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Astragalus has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen the body's "wei qi" (defensive qi) and improve overall vitality. It is considered a "superior" herb in the Shennong Bencao Jing - safe for long-term use.

Pinyin: Huáng Qí

Astragalus is one of the most important immune tonics in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen the body's defensive energy (wei qi) and enhance overall vitality. Astragalus is widely researched for its immune-modulating and adaptogenic effects.

Pinyin: Bái Zhú

Atractylodes macrocephala (Bai Zhu) is one of the most important qi tonic herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. It is widely used to strengthen the spleen, dry dampness, and promote water metabolism. Bai Zhu is often combined with other herbs in classic formulas for digestive weakness, fatigue, and fluid retention. It is considered a fundamental herb for building post-natal qi.

Pinyin: Shēng Wù Sù

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a water-soluble B vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and the health of hair, skin, and nails. It acts as a coenzyme in several important metabolic processes. Biotin is often called "the beauty vitamin" because of its well-known effects on hair, skin, and nail health. While true biotin deficiency is rare, many people supplement with biotin for cosmetic benefits.

Pinyin: Hēi Shēng Má

Black cohosh is a tall perennial plant with white, feathery flower spikes native to the rich woodlands of eastern North America. It was used by Native American tribes for women's health issues and as a general tonic. Today it is one of the most popular herbal supplements for menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. It is important to distinguish black cohosh from blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), which is a different plant.

Pinyin: Niú Bàng Gēn

Burdock is a biennial plant with large leaves and prickly burrs that stick to clothing (the inspiration for Velcro). The long, brown root is used as both food (gobo in Japanese cuisine) and medicine. In traditional herbalism, burdock is considered a "alterative" or "blood purifier" - meaning it gradually restores proper function to the body, especially the skin, liver, and lymphatic system.

Pinyin: Jīn Zhǎn Huā

Calendula is an annual plant in the daisy family with bright orange-yellow edible flowers. It has been used medicinally since ancient times and is one of the most commonly used herbs in Western herbalism, especially for skin conditions. The name "marigold" comes from "Mary's gold," as the flowers were used in medieval church celebrations honoring the Virgin Mary.

Pinyin: Là Jiāo

Cayenne pepper is a spicy chili pepper widely used as both food and medicine. The active compound capsaicin is responsible for its heat and most of its therapeutic effects. Cayenne has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems worldwide for circulation, digestion, and pain relief. Modern research has confirmed many of these benefits.

Pinyin: Shèng Jié Méi

Chaste tree is a large shrub with purple flower spikes and small dark berries. It has been used since ancient Greek and Roman times for women's health issues. The name "chaste tree" comes from its historical reputation for reducing sexual desire (used by monks as an anaphrodisiac). Modern herbalism uses it primarily for PMS, menstrual irregularities, and fertility support.

Pinyin: Huáng Lián

Huang Lian (Coptis chinensis) is one of the most important and bitter herbs in Chinese medicine. The bright yellow rhizome gets its color from berberine, the primary active alkaloid. Huang Lian is used to clear damp-heat from the body, especially from the digestive system and heart. It is one of the most antimicrobial herbs in the Chinese pharmacopeia.

Pinyin: Jú Huā

Chrysanthemum is one of the most beloved flowers in Chinese culture and medicine. The white and yellow varieties are both used medicinally, with white chrysanthemum (Bai Ju Hua) being more cooling and better for the eyes. Hangzhou White Chrysanthemum (Hang Bai Ju) and Tribute Chrysanthemum (Gong Ju) from Huangshan are the most famous varieties.

Pinyin: Ròu Cōng Róng

Cistanche is a parasitic plant that grows on the roots of desert shrubs (saxaul trees) in the arid deserts of northwest China. The thick, fleshy stems are dug in spring before they emerge from the ground. Known as "desert ginseng," it is a primary yang tonic in Chinese medicine, valued for its ability to tonify kidney yang without being too warming or drying.

Pinyin: Dǎng Shēn

Codonopsis is a climbing vine with bell-shaped flowers and a thick, sweet root. It is often called "poor man's ginseng" because it has similar qi-tonifying effects but is much milder and more affordable. While not as potent as ginseng, codonopsis is gentler on the system and can be used long-term by most people. It is one of the most commonly used qi tonics in Chinese medicine.

Pinyin: Kuǎn Dōng Huā

Coltsfoot is a perennial plant with yellow flowers that appear before the leaves. It has been used for centuries as a cough remedy across many traditions. The name Tussilago means "cough dispeller" in Latin.

Pinyin: Dōng Chóng Xià Cǎo

Cordyceps is a unique fungus that grows on caterpillars in the high Himalayan mountains. Wild Cordyceps sinensis is one of the most expensive and prized medicinal substances in Chinese medicine, costing more per gram than gold. Fortunately, cultivated Cordyceps militaris and mycelium (Cs-4) provide similar benefits at a much lower cost. Cordyceps is renowned for its energy-enhancing, athletic performance, immune-supporting, and anti-aging properties.

Pinyin: Ōu Zhōu Jiá Mí

Cramp bark is a large shrub known for its distinctive bark that has powerful antispasmodic properties. It gets its common name from its traditional use for relieving muscle cramps of all types, especially menstrual cramps. The bark contains compounds that relax smooth muscle, making it valuable for uterine, intestinal, and respiratory spasms.

Pinyin: Dān Shēn

Dan Shen is a perennial sage with purple flowers and a distinctive bright red root. It is one of the most important herbs in Chinese medicine for blood stasis and cardiovascular conditions. Dan Shen is the subject of extensive modern research for its cardioprotective effects. It is widely used in China for heart disease and is available in both oral and injectable forms.

Pinyin: Pú Gōng Yīng

Dandelion is a common weed found almost everywhere, but it is also a valuable medicinal plant. Every part of the plant is usable: root, leaves, and flowers. Dandelion root is primarily used for liver and digestive health, while the leaves are more diuretic. It has been used in both European and Chinese herbal traditions.

Pinyin: Pú Gōng Yīng

Dandelion is one of the most common yet underappreciated medicinal plants. Every part of the dandelion is edible and medicinal, from root to flower. The root is particularly valued as a liver tonic and digestive bitter, while the leaves are used as a diuretic and nutrient source. Dandelion has been used in both Western and Chinese herbal traditions.

Pinyin: Tù Sī Zǐ

Dodder is a parasitic vine that wraps around other plants and absorbs nutrients from them. The small seeds are an important kidney and essence tonic in Chinese medicine. Despite being a parasite that harms its host plant, dodder seed has a nourishing, tonifying effect on the human body. It is classified as a superior herb in the Shennong Bencao Jing.

Pinyin: Dāng Guī

Dong Quai is a perennial herb in the celery/carrot family with white flowers and a large, aromatic root. It is the most important women's herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, often called the "female ginseng." The root is divided into three parts used differently: the head (top) stops bleeding, the body tonifies blood, and the tail moves blood. Min County, Gansu, produces the most famous "Min Gui."

Pinyin: Dāng Guī

Dong Quai is the most important women's herb in Chinese medicine, used for regulating menstruation, nourishing blood, and relieving pain.

Pinyin: Dāng Guī

Dong Quai, or Angelica sinensis, is one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine for women's health. It has been used for over 2,000 years to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and invigorate blood circulation. Dong Quai is often called "female ginseng" for its harmonizing effect on the female reproductive system, though it is also used for men and for general blood-building purposes.

Pinyin: Zǐ Zhuī Jú

Echinacea is a group of flowering plants in the daisy family native to North America. It is one of the most popular herbal supplements for immune support, used by Native Americans for centuries before being adopted by modern herbalism.

Pinyin: Jiē Gǔ Mù Guǒ

Elderberry is the dark purple berry of the European elder tree. It has been used for centuries in folk medicine for colds, flu, and as a winter tonic. Modern research supports its antiviral properties, particularly against influenza viruses. IMPORTANT: Raw elderberries are toxic - must be cooked before consumption.

Pinyin: Tǔ Mù Xiāng

Elecampane is a tall, sunflower-like plant with a thick, aromatic root that has been used since ancient times for respiratory and digestive conditions. It was valued by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Celts, and has a long history in European herbalism. Elecampane is especially known for its ability to clear thick, stubborn mucus from the respiratory system.

Pinyin: Má Huáng

Ephedra is a small, shrub-like plant with green, jointed stems that grows in arid regions. It is one of the most powerful herbs in Chinese medicine and also one of the most controversial. Ephedrine, the primary active compound, was the first plant alkaloid isolated as a pharmaceutical drug. It is strictly regulated in many countries.

Pinyin: Yín Yáng Huò

Epimedium is a perennial ground cover plant with heart-shaped leaves and small yellow flowers. It is one of the most famous and controversial Chinese herbs, known in the West as "horny goat weed." The Chinese name Yin Yang Huo literally means "licentious goat weed," named for the observation that goats grazing on the plant showed increased sexual activity. Icariin is the primary active compound.

Pinyin: Dù Zhòng

Eucommia is a deciduous tree native to central China, and the only member of its family. The bark is distinguished by the white, rubbery filaments that stretch between broken pieces. It is a primary kidney and bone tonic in Chinese medicine. Eucommia is also known as the "hardy rubber tree" because its sap contains natural rubber.

Pinyin: Xiǎo Huí Xiāng

Fennel is a flavorful culinary and medicinal herb with a licorice-like taste. It has been used since ancient times by the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians for both food and medicine. Fennel seed is best known as a digestive aid that relieves gas, bloating, and intestinal spasms. It is also used as a galactagogue (promotes breast milk) and for respiratory conditions.

Pinyin: Máo Hóu Qiào Ruǐ Huā

Forskolin is a compound extracted from the root of the Coleus forskohlii plant, a member of the mint family native to India. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Forskolin gained popularity as a weight loss supplement after being featured on the Dr. Oz show. Its primary mechanism is activating the enzyme adenylate cyclase, which increases cAMP levels.

Pinyin: Téng Huáng Guǒ

Garcinia cambogia is a small, pumpkin-shaped tropical fruit. The rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which became popular as a weight loss supplement after being featured on television. However, its effectiveness remains controversial and research is mixed.

Pinyin: Dà Suàn

Garlic is one of the oldest cultivated plants, with a history of both culinary and medicinal use dating back 5,000 years. It is mentioned in the Bible, the Talmud, and Chinese medical texts. Garlic has been studied extensively for its cardiovascular, immune, and antimicrobial properties. Allicin, the primary active compound, is formed when garlic is crushed or chewed (combining the enzyme alliinase with the precursor alliin).

Pinyin: Yáng Gān Jú

Chamomile is an annual plant with daisy-like white flowers and a sweet, apple-like scent. It is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas in the world and one of the oldest documented medicinal plants. Both German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) are used medicinally, with German being more common.

Pinyin: Yín Xìng Yè

Ginkgo biloba is often called a "living fossil" because the species has survived virtually unchanged for over 200 million years. Ginkgo leaf extract is one of the most widely used herbal supplements in the world, particularly for cognitive function and circulation. The seeds (Bai Guo) are also used in Chinese medicine for respiratory conditions.

Pinyin: Běi Měi Huáng Lián

Goldenseal is a perennial herb native to the rich forests of eastern North America, with distinctive yellow roots and a single pair of lobed leaves. It is one of the most important herbs in North American herbalism and also one of the most endangered due to overharvesting. Goldenseal is often combined with echinacea for immune support.

Pinyin: Jī Xuě Cǎo

Gotu Kola is a small, creeping plant with fan-shaped leaves that grows in tropical wetlands. It has been used for thousands of years in both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. In Ayurveda, it is known as "Brahmi" (though this name is also used for Bacopa monnieri) and is considered a "medhyarasayana" (brain tonic). In TCM, it is known as Ji Xue Cao and is used for wound healing and blood conditions.

Pinyin: Lǜ Kā Fēi Dòu

Green coffee bean extract comes from unroasted coffee beans, which contain much higher levels of chlorogenic acid than roasted coffee (roasting destroys most chlorogenic acid). Chlorogenic acid is the primary active compound believed to be responsible for weight loss and blood sugar effects. Green coffee bean extract gained widespread popularity after being featured on popular health shows, though research on its weight loss effects has been mixed.

Pinyin: Lǜ Chá

Green tea is made from the leaves of the tea plant, with minimal oxidation compared to black tea. It is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide and has been extensively studied for its health benefits.

Pinyin: Shān Zhā

Hawthorn is a small tree or shrub in the rose family with white flowers, red berries, and thorny branches. It has been used in both Western herbalism and Chinese medicine for heart and digestive conditions. In TCM, hawthorn berry (Shan Zha) is a digestive aid and blood-stasis herb; in Western herbalism, it is primarily a cardiac tonic. Both the berries and the leaves/flowers are used medicinally.

Pinyin: Shān Zhā

Hawthorn is a thorny shrub or small tree in the rose family that produces small red berries. It has a long history of use in both traditional Chinese medicine (as Shan Zha) and Western herbalism for cardiovascular health and digestion. Hawthorn is one of the most well-researched herbs for heart failure and cardiovascular support, with many clinical trials supporting its use.

Pinyin: Hé Shǒu Wū

He Shou Wu is the tuberous root of Polygonum multiflorum, a climbing vine native to central and southern China. It is one of the most famous longevity herbs in Chinese medicine, with a legendary story of a man named Mr. He who restored his youth, black hair, and fertility by consuming the herb. The raw (unprocessed) root has different properties and uses than the prepared (steam-processed with black bean juice) form. Prepared He Shou Wu is the standard form used as a tonic.

Pinyin: Hé Shǒu Wū

He Shou Wu is one of the most famous longevity herbs in TCM, known for restoring hair color and vitality. The prepared (red) form is used for tonification.

Pinyin: Jīn Yín Huā

Honeysuckle is a climbing vine with fragrant white flowers that turn yellow as they age - hence the name "gold and silver flower" (Jin Yin Hua). The flower buds are one of the most important heat-clearing and detoxifying herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Honeysuckle was widely studied and used during the SARS outbreak in China for its antiviral properties.

Pinyin: Pí Jiǔ Huā

Hops are the cone-shaped female flowers of the hop vine, most famous for flavoring beer. Beyond brewing, hops have a long history as a calming nervine and sleep aid. The bitter compounds that give beer its characteristic flavor also have sedative and estrogen-like effects. Hops pillows have been used for insomnia for centuries.

Pinyin: Mù Zéi

Horsetail is a prehistoric plant that has survived since the time of the dinosaurs. It gets its name from its brush-like appearance resembling a horse's tail. Horsetail is best known for its extremely high silica content, which makes it valuable for skin, hair, nail, bone, and connective tissue health. It has been used as both medicine and an abrasive (for polishing metal and wood).

Pinyin: Kǎ Wǎ Hú Jiāo

Kava is a tropical shrub in the pepper family, native to the South Pacific islands. The root has been used for thousands of years in Pacific Island cultures as a ceremonial and social drink, as well as for medicinal purposes. Kava produces a unique state of relaxed alertness - you feel calm and sociable without mental clouding. However, there are safety concerns about liver toxicity.

Pinyin: Gāo Lí Shēn

Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is the most well-known and researched ginseng species. It is a slow-growing perennial root that takes 4-6 years to mature. The "red" ginseng is steamed and dried, which increases its warming nature and transforms the ginsenoside profile. It is one of the most prized herbs in the world.

Pinyin: Xiāng Fēng Cǎo

Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family with heart-shaped leaves that smell strongly of lemon when crushed. It has been used for over 2,000 years as a calming herb. The botanical name Melissa comes from the Greek word for "bee," as bees are very attracted to its flowers.

Pinyin: Gān Cǎo

Licorice is a perennial legume with purple flowers and long, sweet roots. It is the most widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, appearing in more formulas than any other herb. Known as the "Great Harmonizer," it harmonizes the actions of other herbs in a formula, moderates harsh tastes, and enters all 12 meridians. Glycyrrhizin, the primary sweet compound, is 30-50 times sweeter than sugar.

Pinyin: Lóng Yǎn Ròu

Longan is a tropical fruit tree related to lychee, with round fruits that have a brown, leathery skin and translucent, sweet white flesh surrounding a single black seed. The name "dragon eye" (Long Yan) comes from the resemblance of the peeled fruit to an eyeball. In Chinese medicine, dried longan flesh is a sweet, warm blood and heart tonic, valued for its ability to calm the spirit and nourish the heart.

Pinyin: Jiāo Yuán Dàn Bái Tài

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the structure of skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Collagen peptides are small fragments of collagen protein (usually 2-5 kDa) that are highly bioavailable. Marine collagen (from fish) is particularly popular for skin health because it is rich in Type I collagen and has small peptide size for better absorption.

Pinyin: Jiāo Yuán Dàn Bái Tài

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 30% of total protein. It is a major structural component of skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and blood vessels. Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed (broken down into smaller amino acid chains) for better absorption. Marine collagen, sourced from fish skin and scales, is the most bioavailable form and is particularly valued for skin beauty benefits.

Pinyin: Mǒ Chá

Matcha is the highest grade of green tea, made by stone-grinding shade-grown tea leaves into a fine powder. Because you consume the whole leaf, you get more antioxidants than brewed green tea.

Pinyin: Shuǐ Fēi Jì

Milk thistle is a thistle with distinctive white veins on its leaves and purple flower heads. It has been used for over 2,000 years for liver and gallbladder conditions. The active compound silymarin is one of the most well-studied liver-protective substances. Milk thistle is the most commonly used herbal supplement for liver health worldwide.

Pinyin: Bā Jǐ Tiān

Morinda officinalis is a climbing vine with small white flowers and fleshy, tuberous roots. It is one of the four major kidney yang tonics in Chinese medicine (along with cistanche, epimedium, and eucommia). The roots are typically steamed with licorice or salt water to enhance their medicinal properties. Morinda is known for being a relatively gentle yang tonic suitable for long-term use.

Pinyin: Là Mù

Moringa is a fast-growing tropical tree often called "the miracle tree" because almost every part is edible and medicinal. The leaves are exceptionally nutrient-dense, containing high levels of vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants. Moringa has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and has gained modern popularity as a superfood.

Pinyin: Yì Mǔ Cǎo

Motherwort is a member of the mint family with a long history of use for both heart conditions and women's health issues. Its botanical name, Leonurus cardiaca, means "lion-hearted" and refers to its traditional use for heart palpitations and anxiety. Motherwort is also a primary herb for menstrual regulation and postpartum recovery in both Western and Chinese herbalism.

Pinyin: Sāng Yè

Mulberry leaf is the leaf of the white mulberry tree, famous as food for silkworms. In Chinese medicine, it is a mild, cooling herb that dispels wind-heat, clears lung heat, and benefits the eyes.

Pinyin: Máo Ruǐ Huā

Mullein is a tall, fuzzy-leaved plant with a long history of use for respiratory conditions. The soft, velvety leaves have been made into teas, extracts, and smoked herbs to soothe coughs and congestion. Mullein is known as a gentle but effective lung tonic and demulcent.

Pinyin: Qián Má Gēn

Nettle root comes from the same plant as nettle leaf, but with different medicinal properties. While nettle leaf is used primarily for allergies and as a nutritive tonic, nettle root is specifically used for prostate health and urinary issues. It is one of the most widely researched herbs for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Pinyin: Yàn Mài Jiē

Oat straw and milky oat seed come from the same plant that gives us oatmeal, but harvested at different stages for medicine. Milky oat seed is harvested in the "milky" stage when the unripe oat seed exudes a white, milky sap when squeezed. This stage is considered the most potent for nervous system support. Oats have been used as a nerve tonic for centuries to strengthen the nervous system and support mental and physical exhaustion.

Pinyin: Yàn Mài Gǎn

Oatstraw is the green, above-ground part of the common oat plant, harvested when the seed is still in the "milky" stage (unripe, with white milky sap inside). It is a nutritive nervine tonic - meaning it nourishes the nervous system while also being rich in vitamins and minerals. Oatstraw is very gentle and safe for long-term use, making it a favorite in herbalism.

Pinyin: Gǎn Lǎn Yè

Olive leaf is the leaf of the olive tree, best known for its fruit (olives) and oil. The leaves contain powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds that have been used in traditional Mediterranean medicine for thousands of years. Olive leaf extract gained modern attention after research on its antiviral and cardiovascular benefits.

Pinyin: Xī Fān Lián

Passionflower is a climbing vine with beautiful, intricate purple-white flowers. It was used by Native Americans for various ailments and is now a popular herbal remedy for anxiety and insomnia. The name "passionflower" was given by Spanish missionaries who saw the flower parts as symbols of the Passion of Christ.

Pinyin: Zhēn Zhū Fěn

Pearl powder is made from ground freshwater or saltwater pearls. It has been used for thousands of years in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine as a beauty tonic and calming agent. In ancient China, it was used by empresses and noblewomen for beautiful, luminous skin. Modern science has confirmed many of its skin benefits.

Pinyin: Zhēn Zhū Fěn

Pearl powder has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda as a beauty and longevity tonic. It was prized by empresses and royal women for its skin-enhancing effects. Pearl is composed mainly of calcium carbonate along with trace minerals, amino acids, and conchiolin protein. When finely ground, it can be used both internally and topically.

Pinyin: Bò Hé

Peppermint is a hybrid mint (cross between watermint and spearmint) that grows wild in moist areas. It has square stems, opposite leaves, and purple flower spikes. Peppermint is one of the oldest and most widely used medicinal herbs, valued for its cooling, refreshing, and digestive properties. Both Western herbalism and Traditional Chinese Medicine use mint extensively.

Pinyin: Jié Gěng

Platycodon is a beautiful flowering plant with blue balloon-like buds. The root is an important respiratory herb in Chinese medicine, known for opening the lungs, transforming phlegm, and benefiting the throat.

Pinyin: Fú Líng

Poria is a fungus that grows underground on the roots of pine trees, forming a large, hard, woody sclerotium (fungal mass) that can weigh several kilograms. It is one of the most widely used fungi in Chinese medicine and appears in more formulas than almost any other herb. Poria is valued for its dual ability to both tonify the spleen and drain dampness - a unique combination. It is very mild and safe for long-term use.

Pinyin: Hóng Sān Yè Cǎo

Red clover is a common legume with pink-purple flower heads, found in meadows and fields worldwide. It is both an important forage crop and a medicinal herb. Red clover is one of the richest sources of isoflavones (phytoestrogens), which is why it has been studied extensively for menopausal symptoms and bone health. It has also been used historically as a blood purifier and respiratory remedy.

Pinyin: Hóng Zǎo

Red jujube is the dried fruit of the Chinese date tree, a small tree native to China. It has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and is one of the five major fruits of ancient China. Jujubes are both food and medicine in Chinese culture. There are hundreds of varieties, with the large, sweet dates from Xinjiang being particularly prized today. Dried jujubes are used in thousands of Chinese herbal formulas as a "harmonizing" herb.

Pinyin: Hóng Shù Méi Yè

Red raspberry leaf is the leaf of the common raspberry plant. It has been used for centuries as a women's health tonic, particularly during pregnancy and for menstrual health. It is considered safe and gentle enough for long-term use. The active compound fragarine is believed to be responsible for its effects on the uterus.

Pinyin: Shēng Dì Huáng / Shú Dì Huáng

Rehmannia is a perennial herb with yellow-brown, fleshy tuberous roots. It is one of the most important yin tonics in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is divided into three forms: fresh (Xian Di Huang), raw/dried (Sheng Di Huang), and prepared/processed (Shu Di Huang). Each form has different properties and uses. Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) is the premier blood and essence tonic, produced by steaming the raw root with rice wine (or yellow wine) and drying it - traditionally done nine times.

Pinyin: Fēng Wáng Jiāng

Royal jelly is a creamy, yellowish-white substance secreted by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of young worker bees. It is fed exclusively to the queen bee throughout her life, which is why she grows much larger and lives 40-50 times longer than worker bees. Royal jelly has been used in both traditional and modern medicine for its rejuvenating and health-promoting properties.

Pinyin: Fēng Wáng Jiāng

Royal jelly is a thick, milky-white substance produced by worker honeybees to feed queen bees and their larvae. It is the exclusive food of the queen bee, allowing her to grow much larger and live 40 times longer than worker bees. Royal jelly has been used in traditional medicine for its rejuvenating, immune-supporting, and fertility-enhancing properties. It contains a unique combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Pinyin: Wǔ Wèi Zi

Schisandra is a woody climbing vine with small, bright red berries that grow in clusters. The berry is unique in Chinese medicine as the only herb that possesses all five flavors (sour, bitter, sweet, spicy, salty), corresponding to all five organ systems. Schisandra has been used for over 2,000 years as a powerful adaptogen and liver tonic. Russian scientists extensively studied schisandra during the Soviet era for its ability to enhance work performance and reduce fatigue.

Pinyin: Wǔ Wèi Zǐ

Schisandra is a climbing vine whose berries have all five of the traditional Chinese medicine flavors (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent), hence the name "five-flavor fruit." It is one of the most important adaptogenic herbs in Chinese medicine, prized for its ability to tonify the kidneys, astringent lung qi, generate fluids, and calm the spirit. Schisandra is also valued for liver protection and as a beauty herb.

Pinyin: Xiāng Gū

Shiitake is the second most commonly cultivated edible mushroom in the world. It has been used as both food and medicine in East Asia for over 1,000 years. The Japanese have extensively studied shiitake for its health benefits. Lentinan, a beta-glucan from shiitake, is used as an intravenous cancer drug in Japan and China.

Pinyin: Cì Wǔ Jiā

Siberian ginseng (Eleuthero) is not true ginseng but is in the same family. It is a smaller, spiny shrub with similar adaptogenic effects but gentler action and lower cost. It is one of the most affordable adaptogens, making it ideal for daily, long-term use. Eleutherococcus senticosus is the most well-researched species.

Pinyin: Měi Huáng Qín

Skullcap is a perennial herb in the mint family with small blue flowers shaped like helmets or skulls. It is one of the most effective nervine herbs in Western herbalism, used for anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia. Skullcap is valued for its ability to calm the nervous system without causing drowsiness or intoxication.

Pinyin: Hóng Yú Shù Pí

Slippery elm is a tree native to eastern North America whose inner bark has been used as medicine and food by Native Americans for centuries. The bark becomes very slippery and mucilaginous when mixed with water, which gives it its soothing and protective properties. Slippery elm is valued for its ability to soothe irritated mucous membranes throughout the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems.

Pinyin: Luó Xuán Zǎo

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows naturally in alkaline lakes and is widely cultivated as a superfood. It has been consumed for centuries in some cultures (Aztecs in Mexico, Kanembu people in Chad). Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense foods known, packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Pinyin: Shèng Yuē Hàn Cǎo

St. John's wort is a perennial herb with bright yellow flowers that bloom around St. John's Day (June 24), hence the name. The leaves have tiny transparent dots (oil glands) that look like holes when held up to light - hence "perforatum." It is one of the most widely studied and best-selling herbal supplements, primarily used for mild to moderate depression. Its effectiveness is well-supported by research.

Pinyin: Qián Má Yè

Stinging nettle is a perennial plant covered in tiny stinging hairs that inject histamine and other compounds when touched. Despite its sting, nettle is one of the most nutritious and versatile medicinal plants. Both the leaf and root have different medicinal uses. Nettle has been used for food, fiber, and medicine for thousands of years.

Pinyin: Chá Shù

Tea tree oil is an essential oil distilled from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. It has been used by Australian Aboriginal people for thousands of years as a medicine. Tea tree oil is one of the most widely used essential oils for its powerful antimicrobial properties. It is used externally for a wide range of skin conditions and as a natural disinfectant.

Pinyin: Bǎi Lǐ Xiāng

Thyme is a fragrant culinary and medicinal herb native to the Mediterranean. It has been used since ancient times by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Thyme is best known for its powerful antimicrobial effects on the respiratory system, making it a go-to herb for coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats.

Pinyin: Shèng Luó Lè

Tulsi, or holy basil, is one of the most revered plants in Ayurvedic medicine and Hindu culture, where it is considered sacred. It has been used for over 3,000 years as an adaptogen, immune tonic, and spiritual herb. Tulsi is often called "the queen of herbs" and "the incomparable one." Modern research confirms its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Pinyin: Jiāng Huáng

Turmeric is a tropical perennial plant related to ginger, with large leaves and white-pink flowers. The bright orange-yellow rhizome is used both as a spice (key ingredient in curry) and as a medicine. Turmeric has been used for over 4,000 years in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Curcumin, the primary active compound, is one of the most extensively studied natural substances for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Pinyin: Xié Cǎo

Valerian is a tall perennial herb with pink or white flowers and a strong-smelling root. It is one of the most well-studied herbal sleep aids. Valerian root has been used for centuries in European and Asian medicine as a sedative and calmative. The strong, earthy odor is characteristic.

Pinyin: Wéi Shēng Sù C

Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin and powerful antioxidant that the human body cannot produce on its own (unlike most animals). It is vital for collagen synthesis, immune function, antioxidant defense, and numerous other bodily processes. Vitamin C is also one of the most well-known beauty nutrients for its role in collagen production and skin brightening. While scurvy (severe vitamin C deficiency) is rare today, many people do not get optimal amounts.

Pinyin: Bái Sháo

White Peony Root is the prepared root of the herbaceous peony, one of the most beloved flowers in China. The "white" refers to the preparation method (peeled and boiled, resulting in a whiter interior) rather than the flower color. It is a fundamental herb in Chinese medicine, valued for its ability to nourish blood, calm the liver, and relieve pain. Red Peony (Chi Shao) is a different species/part used for blood-moving, not tonification.

Pinyin: Bái Sháo

White peony root is one of the most important tonic herbs in Chinese medicine for women. It is widely used to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and calm the liver. White peony has a mild, harmonizing effect and is often combined with other herbs in classic formulas.

Pinyin: Jīn Lǚ Méi

Witch hazel is a flowering shrub native to North America that blooms in late autumn or winter. It has a long history of use by Native Americans for skin conditions, wounds, and inflammation. Today, witch hazel is one of the most widely used topical astringents, commonly found in toners, aftershaves, and hemorrhoid treatments. It is valued for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.

Pinyin: Suān Mó

Yellow dock is a common weed with a long history of use as a blood purifier, liver tonic, and digestive aid. The root gets its name from its bright yellow color, which comes from anthraquinone compounds. Yellow dock is widely used in Western herbalism for skin conditions, anemia, and liver support. The young leaves are also edible as a green vegetable.

Pinyin: Mǎ Dài Chá

Yerba mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves and twigs of the mate tree, which is related to holly. It is consumed from a hollowed-out gourd (mate) with a metal straw (bombilla). Mate has been called the "drink of the gods" by the Guarani people and is deeply embedded in South American culture.