Guanmutong is a nephrotoxic traditional Chinese medicine. It used to be used in the treatment of many diseases, but due to its high toxicity, we now use Mutong instead of Guanmutong. Let's now understand the differences between Mutong and Guanmutong!
1. Appearance difference
Mutong is a relatively long herb. The length of a thriving Mutong can reach about 170 centimeters. Its surface color is dark brown or gray-brown, and there are also some raised pores distributed on it.
On the other hand, Guanmutong is the rhizome of a plant. It has a hard texture and is not easily broken. Its appearance is brownish-yellow, and the skin is covered with tiny pores.
2. Medicinal effect difference
Guanmutong is mainly harvested in spring and autumn. It has the effect of clearing heat. However, because Guanmutong contains a toxic substance called aristolochic acid, and its toxicity is relatively high, its qualification for clinical use has been cancelled.
Mutong, on the other hand, does not have this toxicity. Its main effect is to promote diuresis and relieve dampness.
3. Odor difference
Although both Mutong and Guanmutong have medicinal properties, Mutong does not have any smell. It is just a long vine.
Guanmutong, on the other hand, has a very unpleasant smell, especially when it grows in the wild. It has a strong odor similar to camphor. When chewed in the mouth, it initially has no taste, but the bitter taste becomes more pronounced after a long time of chewing. The taste does not dissipate even after a long time of chewing. Therefore, the two herbs can be easily distinguished based on taste.
