Shui Zhi Dried Leech (Hirudo nipponica) — Clean Water-Processed Food Herb, 500g

Shui Zhi Dried Leech (Hirudo nipponica), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Shuǐ Zhì (水蛭), is the dried body of a freshwater leech carefully cleaned and air-dried in its whole form. Also called the "water leech" or "wide-body leech," Shui Zhi has been prized for centuries as a blood-quickening, stasis-breaking herb used in decoctions and traditional formulas. Its nature is salty, bitter, and neutral, making it a focused yet traditional herb for invigorating blood and supporting smooth circulation.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional blood-quickening food herb
• Clean water-processed and air-dried
• Whole wide-body leech form
• Hirudo nipponica species
• 500g bulk pack, new-crop stock

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully cleaned in fresh water and air-dried to preserve its dark brown to blackish color, firm leathery texture, and mild marine-like aroma. When decocted, the dried leech softens and releases a subtle, slightly salty flavor that blends quietly into traditional broths and herbal formulas without overpowering other ingredients.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoctions
• Chinese-style medicinal soups
• Herbal formula ingredient
• Bulk herbal preparation
• Traditional wellness blends

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Shui Zhi is decocted into soups and traditional formulas to invigorate blood and break stasis. It is a common ingredient in classical decoctions, where it pairs with herbs like peach kernel, safflower, and angelica root. As a dried food herb, it is also simmered in medicinal broths for daily traditional nourishment during seasonal transitions.

FAQ Q&A