Cao Shi Can (Stachys affinis) — Dried Food Herb Rhizome, 500g Bulk

Cao Shi Can (Stachys affinis), also known as Chinese Artichoke or Crosne, is the dried rhizome of a traditional food herb used in Chinese herbal wellness practice. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is known as Cǎo Shí Cán (草石蚕), and is also referred to regionally as Di Can (地蚕) or Bai Chong Cao (白虫草). Its nature is sweet and neutral, making it a gentle, food-grade herb traditionally associated with moistening the Lungs, nourishing yin, and supporting the Stomach. This listing offers a 500g bulk pack of new-crop dried rhizome, suitable for decoction, soup, and daily food-herb use.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional food herb (药食同源) rhizome
• Botanical identity: Stachys affinis
• New-crop, 500g bulk pack
• Suitable for decoction, soup, and congee
• Sourced from China, stored at room temperature

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve the rhizome's pale ivory to light tan color, its firm yet slightly spongy texture, and a mild, earthy aroma. When decocted or simmered, the pieces soften and yield a gentle, subtly sweet infusion with a smooth, slightly starchy mouthfeel that blends well with other food-herb ingredients.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Herbal decoction with other food-herb ingredients
• Chinese-style soup and broth
• Congee and grain porridge
• Daily food-herb tea blend
• Seasonal nourishment cooking

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Cao Shi Can is decocted into soups, congee, and gentle daily tonics, often paired with ingredients like lily bulb, Chinese yam, and goji berry. It is traditionally used in food-therapy cooking during dry seasons to support moisture and comfort. As a daily tea, it is simmered alone or blended with mild herbs for a light, subtly sweet infusion.

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