Tu Yuan Dried Ground Beetle 土元 Whole Insect TCM Herb 500g Traditional Decoction Ingredient

Tu Yuan (土元), also called Tu Bie Chong (土鳖虫), is the dried whole female insect of Eupolyphaga sinensis, a traditional Chinese medicine animal material. In TCM theory it is salty in flavor and slightly cold in nature, traditionally associated with the liver channel. Supplied as whole dried insects, it is traditionally used in decoctions and external applications, and should be used under professional guidance.

Key Selling Points

• Whole dried Tu Yuan 土元 insects, a classic TCM animal materia medica
• Botanical source Eupolyphaga sinensis, known as Tu Bie Chong 土鳖虫
• Traditionally associated with the liver channel, salty and slightly cold in TCM theory
• Carefully dried whole insects with a 12-month shelf life when stored cool and dry
• Suited to traditional decoction preparation under professional herbal guidance

Quality & Sensory

Typically dark brown to blackish-brown whole insects with a flattened oval body, segmented back, and slightly glossy surface. The texture is dry and brittle, breaking easily, with a mild characteristic insect aroma and a salty taste when decocted.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoction preparation under professional guidance
• Ingredient in classical TCM formulas dispensed by herbalists
• External use in traditional folk applications as directed by a practitioner
• Long-term storage as a dried TCM materia medica in a cool dry place

Traditional Uses

In TCM practice, Tu Yuan has traditionally been used in decoctions and wine preparations, often paired with herbs such as Dang Gui and Hong Hua in classical formulas. Folk tradition also associates it with external applications. It is a seasonal staple in some herbal pharmacies and is typically processed by drying the whole insect for storage and dispensing.

FAQ Q&A