Dried Zicao Gromwell Root 500g Chinese Herbal Ingredient for Red Oil Coloring and Traditional Use

Dried Gromwell Root, known in TCM as Zi Cao (紫草), from Arnebia or Lithospermum species roots. This raw botanical ingredient is traditionally associated with cooling properties and is commonly used to infuse red oil for culinary coloring and in traditional external applications. In TCM theory, Zi Cao is considered cold in nature with a sweet and salty flavor. Sold as a food-grade agricultural product for traditional herbal use.

Key Selling Points

• Authentic dried Zi Cao (紫草) root from Xinjiang, a classic TCM botanical
• Traditionally used to infuse red oil, prized for its natural deep red coloring
• Available in soft and hard root forms depending on batch
• Sold as a food-grade agricultural product with 36-month shelf life
• Versatile raw herb for culinary coloring and traditional external preparations

Quality & Sensory

Typically features slender twisted roots with a deep purplish-red exterior and a lighter inner core. The texture is dry and slightly brittle, with a faint characteristic herbal aroma. When infused in oil, it typically releases a rich red-orange color.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Infuse in hot oil to make traditional red chili oil with natural red coloring
• Use in traditional external herbal preparations such as infused oils
• Incorporate into folk herbal formulas under the guidance of a practitioner
• Add to culinary spice blends for color and traditional character

Traditional Uses

In TCM practice, Zi Cao is traditionally associated with cooling the blood and is a familiar ingredient in folk herbal preparations. It is most commonly steeped in warm oil to produce hong you (red oil), a traditional infused oil used topically and for coloring dishes. Xinjiang soft Zi Cao is traditionally regarded as a premium regional source. Store refrigerated to preserve quality.

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