Qi Cao (Holotrichia diomphalia Larva) — Dried Insect Herb, 500g

Qi Cao (蛴螬), also known as Di Can, Bai Tu Can, Lao Mu Chong, or He Tao Chong, is the dried larva of the scarab beetle Holotrichia diomphalia, a traditional insect-based herb used in Chinese medicine. In TCM it is known as Qí Cáo (蛴螬) and has been prized as a blood-quickening, stasis-dispelling, and wind-extinguishing insect herb. Its nature is slightly warm and its flavor is salty, giving it a focused, penetrating character traditionally used to break stagnation and soothe the Liver.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional insect-based Chinese herb
• Dried Holotrichia diomphalia larva
• Known as Qi Cao, Di Can, Bai Tu Can
• 500g bulk food-herb grade
• Clean, dried, ready for decoction

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve its pale yellowish-brown to tan color, firm segmented body, and mild earthy aroma. When decocted, it yields a subtly salty, earthy infusion with a faint insect note, typical of traditional insect herbs.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoction
• Herbal formula ingredient
• Medicinal soup packs
• TCM practitioner blends
• Bulk herb storage

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Qi Cao is decocted into soups and formulas to invigorate blood, dispel stasis, and calm internal wind. It is traditionally paired with herbs like Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, and Bai Shao in blood-moving formulas, and with Tian Ma and Quan Xie in wind-calming preparations. As a daily decoction, it is simmered alone or blended into larger TCM prescriptions.

FAQ Q&A