Qi Cao (Protaetia brevitarsis Larva) — Dried Insect Food Herb, 500g

Qi Cao (蛴螬), also known as Bai Tu Can (白土蚕) or the dried larva of Protaetia brevitarsis, is a traditional insect-based food herb used in Chinese wellness practice. Known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Qí Cáo (蛴螬), this dried larva has been traditionally valued for its ability to invigorate blood, break stasis, and support the Liver channel. Its nature is described as warm and its flavor salty, making it a distinctive ingredient in traditional decoctions and medicinal food preparations.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional insect-based food herb
• Dried Qi Cao larva, clean and pure
• Known as Bai Tu Can (白土蚕)
• Sourced from Henan, China
• 500g bulk pack, new crop

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve its uniform pale yellow to light brown color, firm texture, and mild earthy aroma. When decocted, the larvae soften and release a subtle, slightly salty flavor that blends into traditional herbal formulas without overpowering other ingredients.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoctions
• Medicinal food soups
• Herbal formula ingredient
• Traditional wellness preparations
• Bulk herbal supply

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Qi Cao is decocted into soups and traditional formulas, often paired with herbs that invigorate blood and support the Liver. It has been used in medicinal food preparations and longevity formulas in certain regional traditions, where it is simmered slowly with other ingredients to create a nourishing broth.

FAQ Q&A