Two common Chinese medicinal materials are Mutong and Guan Mutong. Although their names are similar, their medicinal values are quite different. Let's take a look at the differences between Mutong and Guan Mutong.
1. Different taste
Mutong has a mild taste that becomes even milder with prolonged chewing. On the other hand, Guan Mutong starts with a mild taste but gradually develops a bitter sensation with longer chewing. Many traditional Chinese medicine experts describe the taste of Guan Mutong as "camphor-like and pungent."
2. Different medicinal properties
Mutong mainly exhibits the property of "dampness-dispelling," while Guan Mutong mainly exhibits the property of "heat-clearing." For example, if a patient has a constitution that is not characterized by excessive heat but rather a deficiency, long-term use of medicines containing Guan Mutong, such as Longdan Xiegan Wan, can potentially damage the body.
3. Different appearance
Guan Mutong has thicker and sturdier nodes that are not easily broken. The color of the wood in Guan Mutong is yellow. The surface of Mutong is usually grayish-brown with irregular cracks and a thicker skin.
4. Difference in toxicity
The toxicity of Guan Mutong has been a highly debated topic in Chinese medicine, and it has finally been confirmed that Guan Mutong is indeed toxic.
