Dried Chong Lou Whole Root Paris Polyphylla TCM Herb 500g

Dried Chong Lou (重楼), also called Zao Xiu or Cao He Che, is the dried rhizome of Paris polyphylla, known in English as Seven-Leaf One-Flower. In TCM theory it is traditionally associated with cooling properties and bitter flavor. This whole-form herb is supplied as a culinary-grade raw botanical for traditional preparation and should be used under the guidance of a qualified herbal practitioner.

Key Selling Points

• Whole dried rhizome of Paris polyphylla supplied in original form
• Known in TCM as Chong Lou (重楼) with alternate names Zao Xiu and Cao He Che
• Sourced from Yunnan, a region traditionally valued for this botanical
• Traditionally associated with bitter flavor and cooling nature in TCM
• Suitable for decoction and traditional culinary preparation

Quality & Sensory

The dried rhizome typically appears in irregular knobby segments with a light brown to grayish exterior and pale starchy interior. It has a faint earthy aroma and a characteristically bitter taste when decocted.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoction prepared with other botanicals
• Slow-cooked herbal soup in small amounts
• Culinary use in traditional herbal recipes
• Stored for practitioner-guided herbal formulas

Traditional Uses

In TCM practice, Chong Lou has long been included in external and internal formulas prepared by decoction, often paired with other cooling herbs according to classical patterns. Folk tradition also used the sliced rhizome in small quantities in seasonal herbal broths. Because of its strong nature, it is traditionally used in measured amounts under professional guidance rather than as a daily food.

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