Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Nardostachyos Radix et Rhizoma |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 甘松 · Gan Song |
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| Medicinal Part | Roots and rhizomes |
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| Efficacy Category | Qi-regulating |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried root and rhizome of Nardostachys chinensis Batal.(Valerianaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Acrid, Sweet; Warm |
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| Channels Entered | Spleen, Stomach |
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What Is Gan Song?
Gan Song (Chinese Nardostachys Root and Rhizome) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan.
Nature & Flavour: Acrid, Sweet; Warm
Channels Entered: Spleen, Stomach
Gan Song: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Nardostachyos Radix et Rhizoma
Botanical Origin
The dried root and rhizome of Nardostachys chinensis Batal.(Valerianaceae).
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material is long, thick, with a potent aroma.
Macroscopic Features
Often curved, thick at the top and thin at the bottom, 5~18cm long. Rhizome is short, has remnants of stem at the apex, externally covered with layers of remnants of withered leaves, membranous or fibrous; outer layer is brownish-black, inner layer is brown or yellow. Singular root, some are crossed over or parallel or branched, 6~16cm long, 0.3~1cm diameter. Externally wrinkled, brown, with thin roots and rootlets. Loose texture, easily broken; fractured surface is rough, cortex is dark brown and branched; xylem is yellowish-white. Distinctive odor; bitter and acrid taste, with a cooling sensation.
Traditional TCM Properties
Acrid, Sweet; WarmSpleenStomach
Traditional Functions
Moves qi and relieves pain, opens stagnation and awakens the spleen.
How Gan Song Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Gan Song is classified among the Qi-regulating 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.
