Di Shen / Chong Cao Shen (Stachys affinis) — Yunnan Dried Food Herb, 500g

Di Shen (Stachys affinis), also known as Chong Cao Shen (虫草参) or Chinese Artichoke, is the dried underground tuber of a traditional food herb from Yunnan, China. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food culture, it is a sweet, neutral, gently nourishing ingredient prized as a culinary and wellness herb. Its small, ringed, ivory-white tubers resemble insect larvae, which is how it earned the name "Chong Cao Shen" — literally "insect-herb ginseng."

Key Selling Points

• Wild-grown food herb from Yunnan's Jianchuan region
• Known as Di Shen, Chong Cao Shen, or Chinese Artichoke
• Sweet, neutral nature — gentle for daily nourishment
• Air-dried whole tubers, new-crop quality
• Versatile: stir-fry, soup, tea, or congee

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is naturally air-dried to preserve the tubers' ivory-white color, delicate ringed texture, and mild earthy aroma. When rehydrated or simmered, they soften to a crisp-tender bite with a subtly sweet, clean taste that absorbs the flavors of broths and seasonings without overpowering them.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Chinese-style soups and broths
• Stir-fries and cold dishes
• Herbal tea blends
• Congee and grain porridge
• Medicinal food soup packs

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Di Shen is decocted into soups, congee, and gentle tonics to support daily nourishment. It is a common ingredient in Yunnan-style medicinal food soups, where it pairs with ingredients like goji berry, jujube, and Chinese yam. As a tea, it is brewed alone or blended with other mild herbs for a light, subtly sweet infusion. It can also be stir-fried, deep-fried, or served cold as a crisp, refreshing dish.

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