Some Chinese medicinal herbs are difficult to distinguish because they have similar shapes. There are many Chinese medicinal herbs, and most of the ones we are familiar with are flowers and plants. However, Yashong, a type of Chinese medicinal herb, can be used for root carving. So how do we differentiate between Yashong and Yabai?
Image of Yashong
【Benefits and Uses of Yashong】
In traditional Chinese medicine, Yashong is believed to have the effect of clearing heat and toxins. It is used to treat conditions such as boils and swelling caused by heat toxins, erysipelas, orchitis, burns, damp sores, bacterial dysentery, and amoebic dysentery.
In addition, Yashong also has a calming effect and can promote wound healing.
Treatment for pediatric erysipelas: 15g Yashong, 9g Honeysuckle, Forsythia, Big Green Leaf, Dandelion, Moutan Bark, Red Paeonia, and Lespedeza capitata. Boil in water and take orally. ("Qinling-Bashan Natural Medicinal Records")
Treatment for orchitis: Appropriate amount of Yashong. Mash and apply externally. ("Qinling-Bashan Natural Medicinal Records")
【How to Differentiate Yashong and Yabai】
1. Taste
This method of differentiation is the most effective. If you can't distinguish them from their appearance, try differentiating them by taste.
Yabai has the taste of cypress, while Yashong, no matter how aged, will always have the taste of pine, which cannot be changed!
2. Texture differentiation
Yabai has various beautiful textures such as Bodhisattva cloud pattern, tiger skin pattern, and ink pattern.
Yashong does not have as many beautiful textures! Is there a Bodhisattva cloud pattern on Yashong? That doesn't exist!
3. Fineness
In terms of the material, Yabai is very fine, while Yashong is not as fine as Yabai.
The "coarse silk" of Yashong is rough! The texture is not as fine as Yabai!
