Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Ilicis Asprellae Radix |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 崗梅根 · Gang Mei Gen |
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| Medicinal Part | Roots and rhizomes |
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| Efficacy Category | Heat-clearing |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried root of Ilex asprella (Hook. et Arn.) Champ. ex Benth. (Aquifoliaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Bitter, Sweet; Cool |
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| Channels Entered | Lung, Stomach, Liver |
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What Is Gang Mei Gen?
Gang Mei Gen (Rough Holly Root) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Hunan, Jiangxi.
Nature & Flavour: Bitter, Sweet; Cool
Channels Entered: Lung, Stomach, Liver
Gang Mei Gen: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Ilicis Asprellae Radix
Botanical Origin
The dried root of Ilex asprella (Hook. et Arn.) Champ. ex Benth. (Aquifoliaceae).
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Hunan, Jiangxi.
Quality Requirements
Superior material is thick, yellowish-white and with prominent white dots.
Macroscopic Features
Irregular slices or blocks, 0.5~2 cm thick; externally grayish-yellow or grayish-brown, with numerous small white dot-like lenticels (like a steelyard), longitudinal wrinkles and scars; cut surface pale yellowish-white, bark thin, wood broad with radial rays; texture hard; faint odor; slightly bitter and sweet taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Bitter, Sweet; CoolLungStomachLiver
Traditional Functions
Clears heat and resolves toxin, generates fluids and stops thirst, benefits throat and reduces swelling, dissipates stasis and stops pain.
How Gang Mei Gen Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Gang Mei Gen is classified among the Heat-clearing 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.
