Macroscopic FeaturesStem is cylindrical, 2~48cm long, 0.5~3cm diameter, externally yellowish-green or yellowish-brown, some with purple color, with longitudinal ridges, fractured surface has hollow center. Leaves densely arranged, no leaf stem or with remnants after falling off, intact lamina ovate-oblong or broadly lanceolate. Both sides are covered in soft hairs, the edges are saw-teethed and have hairs, and the central vein is obvious. Flower head grows from the apex, 10~42 individual pieces densely gathered into a round spherical shape, without stems. Bracts are long oval or oval shape, no stem; middle portion is indented like a boat, membranous, transclucent. Phyllary is 3~4 layered, lanceolate, outer layer is often purplish-brown, inner layer is brownish-yellow or yellowish-white. Flower is tube-like, purple-red, stigma is 2-lobed. Achene is cylindrical, with longitudinal ridges, 2 layers of pinniform pappus. Light in weight, brittle texture. faintly aromatic odor, slightly bitter taste.
FunctionsWarms kidney, supplements yang, dispels wind, overcomes dampness, frees channels, invigorates blood. Apply to wind stasis and damp impediment, rheumatoid arthritis, lower abdominal pain, irregular menstruation.
