The criteria for selecting high-quality Chinese medicinal materials mainly include the following aspects:
Observe the appearance characteristics:
Color: High-quality Chinese medicinal materials usually have bright or natural colors. For example, astragalus should be yellow-brown or yellow-green, and white atractylodes should be gray-yellow or gray-white. If the color is black, green or has mold spots, it may be a low-quality medicinal material. The shape of the material is complete and full, without damage or insect infestation. For example, angelica should be cylindrical with longitudinal wrinkles on the surface; wolfberry should be round or oval with a shiny surface.
Texture: The quality of Chinese medicinal materials can be further identified by touching their texture. For example, high-quality wolfberries should be dry and elastic, and not easy to break when pinched; while low-quality wolfberries are usually too dry or soft.
Understand the origin and processing methods:
Origin: The quality of medicinal materials in the place of origin is usually the best, because the local climate, soil and water quality are most suitable for the growth of the medicinal materials. For example, Sichuan Fritillaria, Guangdong Chenpi, Henan Chinese Yam, etc. are all famous medicinal materials named after their places of origin.
Processing methods: Medicinal materials using traditional processing methods are of better quality because these methods can retain the effective ingredients of medicinal materials to the maximum extent. For example, Scutellaria baicalensis can be processed by steaming, wine making, etc.; Poria cocos can be processed by sweating, drying in the shade, etc. Choose reputable merchants:
Choose reputable merchants and pharmacies, which usually strictly control the source and quality of Chinese medicinal materials to ensure that consumers buy high-quality and safe Chinese medicinal materials. You can judge the credibility of the merchant by checking the merchant's business qualifications, customer reviews and other information. Pay attention to storage methods:
Chinese medicinal materials should pay attention to moisture-proof, insect-proof, mildew-proof and other issues during storage. Generally speaking, Chinese medicinal materials should be stored in a cool, dry and ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperature and humidity.