Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Acanthopanacis Senticosi Radix et Rhizoma Sue Caulis |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 刺五加 · Ci Wu Jia |
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| Medicinal Part | Roots and rhizomes |
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| Efficacy Category | Tonifying |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried root and rhizome or stem of Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Harms (Araliaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Acrid, Bitter; Warm |
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| Channels Entered | Spleen, Kidney, Heart |
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What Is Ci Wu Jia?
Ci Wu Jia (Manyprinckle Acanthopanax) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in Hebei and northeastern China.
Nature & Flavour: Acrid, Bitter; Warm
Channels Entered: Spleen, Kidney, Heart
Ci Wu Jia: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Acanthopanacis Senticosi Radix et Rhizoma Sue Caulis
Botanical Origin
The dried root and rhizome or stem of Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Harms (Araliaceae).
Production Regions
Primarily produced in Hebei and northeastern China.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material has an intact cortex, a yellowish-white fractured surface, and a potent aroma.
Macroscopic Features
Rhizome is irregular knotted cylindrical shape, 1.4~4.2cm diameter; externally grayish-brown, with wrinkles; apex has thin branches with adventitious bud. Root is cylindrical with many branches, often twisted, 3.5~12cm long, 0.3~1.5cm diameter; externally grayish-brown or black-brown, rough, with thin skin; peeling-off position is grayish-yellow. Hard texture; fractured surface is yellowish-white and fibrous. Distinctive aromatic odor; slightly acrid and bitter and astringent taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Acrid, Bitter; WarmSpleenKidneyHeart
Traditional Functions
Boosts qi and fortifies the spleen, supplements kidney and calms the spirit.
How Ci Wu Jia Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Ci Wu Jia is classified among the Tonifying herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
