Liang Mian Zhen (Zanthoxylum nitidum) — Dried Two-Sided Needle Root, Sulfur-Free New Crop

Liang Mian Zhen (Zanthoxylum nitidum), also known as Two-Sided Needle Root, Shiny-Leaf Prickly Ash Root, and by its folk names Guò Shān Lóng (过山龙) and Rù Dì Jīn Niú (入地金牛), is the dried root and stem of a revered traditional herb in Chinese medicine. For centuries it has been prized as a wind-dispelling, collateral-unblocking, and qi-moving herb, traditionally used to ease joint discomfort, support smooth movement of the limbs, and address patterns of stagnant qi and blood. Its nature is bitter, pungent, and warm, giving it a strong, active character that warms the channels and disperses obstruction.

Key Selling Points

• Sulfur-free new-crop dried root
• Traditional wind-dispelling and collateral-unblocking herb
• Zanthoxylum nitidum, known as Two-Sided Needle Root
• Sold as a food agricultural product in 500 g packs
• Folk names include Guo Shan Long and Ru Di Jin Niu

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve the root's firm, woody texture and its pale tan to light brown color. The pieces carry a mild, earthy, slightly pungent aroma. When decocted, Liang Mian Zhen yields a bitter, pungent infusion with a warming, lingering character, often blended with other herbs to soften its strong flavor.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoctions
• Folk herbal soups and stews
• Herbal foot soak blends
• Herbal wine infusions in folk practice
• Blended herbal formulas

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Liang Mian Zhen is decocted into soups and herbal formulas to support joint comfort and smooth movement of the limbs. It is also used in external preparations such as foot soaks and herbal washes, and in some regional traditions it is infused in wine. As a daily tea, it is usually blended with other herbs to balance its strong, bitter-pungent character.

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