Dried Sophora Root Slices Ku Shen 苦参 Traditional Herbal Decoction Herb 500g

Dried Sophora Root Slices, known in TCM as Ku Shen (苦参), from Sophora flavescens. These cut root slices are a classic bitter-cold herb traditionally associated with clearing heat and drying dampness in TCM theory. Sold as a raw botanical for decoction, external washes, or herbal formulations, it should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Key Selling Points

• Authentic Ku Shen 苦参 dried root slices from Sophora flavescens
• Bitter-cold TCM herb traditionally used to clear heat and dry dampness
• Cut slice form suitable for decoction and external herbal washes
• Nitrogen-flushed packaging with 12-month shelf life
• 500g bulk bag ideal for herbal shops and home decoction use

Quality & Sensory

Slices typically show a yellowish-brown exterior with pale yellow cut surfaces and a fibrous, slightly striated texture. The aroma is faint and earthy, while the taste is distinctly bitter, as expected for this classic cold-natured root.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Simmered into traditional herbal decoctions
• Prepared as an external wash or sitz bath in folk practice
• Incorporated into practitioner-prescribed herbal formulas
• Used in seasonal herbal foot soak blends

Traditional Uses

In TCM theory, Ku Shen is bitter and cold and traditionally enters the heart, liver, stomach, and large intestine channels. It has long been used in decoctions and external washes, often paired with herbs such as Huang Bai or Di Fu Zi in traditional damp-heat formulas. Folk practice also uses it in topical rinses for skin comfort.

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