Hai Yan Dried Sea Star (Asterias) — Traditional Chinese Marine Herb for Wine Infusion & Decoction

Hai Yan Dried Sea Star (Asterias spp.) is the dried whole body of a traditional marine organism known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Hǎi Yàn (海燕). Also referred to as Sea Swallow, this treasured coastal herb has been prized for centuries as a warming, yang-supporting marine ingredient used in wine infusions, decoctions, and folk tonic formulas. Its nature is salty, warm, and tonifying, making it a valued ingredient for supporting kidney yang, strengthening the waist and knees, and warming the body's vital energy.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional marine herb for wine infusion
• Dried whole sea star, fully dehydrated
• Known in TCM as Hai Yan (海燕)
• Prized coastal tonic ingredient
• 500g bulk pack, 18-month shelf life

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully sun-dried to preserve its natural form, firm texture, and characteristic marine aroma. The dried body retains a pale beige to light tan color with a slightly rough, calcified surface. When decocted or infused in wine, it releases a mild oceanic flavor with a subtle salty-sweet undertone, blending smoothly with other tonic herbs.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional wine infusion (泡酒)
• Herbal decoction with other tonic herbs
• Folk tonic soup and stew
• Seasonal warming nourishment
• Marine herb blend for daily wellness

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Hai Yan is steeped in rice wine or grain liquor alongside herbs like goji berry, angelica, and eucommia to create a warming tonic for the colder months. It is also decocted into soups and stews, often paired with ginger and jujube, to support the body's yang energy and ease stiffness in the lower back and limbs. Coastal communities have long valued it as a nourishing marine ingredient for daily vitality.

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