Colored Mistletoe Herb

Primarily produced in the northeast and north areas of China.

Stem is cylindrical, with 2~5 fork-like branches, about 30cm long, 0.3~1cm diameter; externally yellowish-green, golden-yellow or yellowish-brown; enlarged joints, with branches or branch scars. Light, brittle texture, easily broken; fractured surface is uneven, cortex is yellow, xylem is relatively pale, radial rays, pith often sideways. Opposing leaves grow on the tips, easily fall off, with no stems; leaves are long elliptical lanceolate, 2~7cm long, 0.5~1.5cm wide; apex is blunt round, base is wedge-like, entire leaves, externally yellowish-green, with thin wrinkles, 5 main veins, the center 3 are obvious. Leathery leaves. Spherical berries, wrinkled. faint odor; slightly bitter taste, sticky when chewed.

Superior medicinal material has fresh branches, yellowish-green color, numerous leaves.

Bitter, sweet; neutral

Supplements the liver and kidney, strengthens sinew and bone, dispels wind-damp, calms the fetus.