Detailed Explanation of Key Points for Angelica sinensis Harvesting and Processing Techniques

In early October, when the leaves of Angelica sinensis turn yellow, cut off the aboveground parts so that the sun reaches the ground, promoting root maturation. In late October, dig up the Angelica sinensis, starting from one end of the field and digging as completely as possible. After digging, pick up any missed roots once more while plowing the field.

After harvesting and digging out the Angelica sinensis, promptly shake off the wet soil, remove diseased and rotten roots, snap off the remaining leaf stalks, and after the moisture has slightly evaporated, tie them into flat bundles weighing 0.5-1 kg, and place them in a dry, ventilated room or a specially made smoking shed. The smoking shed frame is 1.3-1.7 m high, with bamboo strips laid on top; the Angelica sinensis bundles are placed on top alternately flat and upright, with a thickness of 30-50 cm. Use bean stalks, wet white poplar, willow wood, etc. as fuel, spray with water to dampen and light a fire to produce smoke, so as to color the Angelica sinensis until the outer skin turns reddish-red, then smoke with coal fire or wood fire for about 10 days, then turn over the shed; after turning, smoke with a strong fire for 2 days, then smoke dry with a slow fire.