An Introduction to the Benefits, Effects, and Cultivation and Care Methods of Tianqi

Tianqi, whose scientific name is Panax notoginseng, is a perennial herb in the Araliaceae family, genus Panax. It is mainly produced in the mountainous areas of Yunnan, Guangxi and other places, and got its name because it was traditionally mostly planted in fields. The plant is not tall, bears palmately compound leaves, and produces umbel inflorescences. Its underground root is thick and fleshy, spindle-shaped or almost conical, and is the main part used.

In terms of growth habits, Tianqi likes warmth and humidity, and fears severe cold and direct strong light. It is mostly cultivated under forests at higher altitudes, or requires shading management with a shed. Its growth cycle is relatively long; from sowing to the root reaching harvestable value usually takes more than three years. During this period, the soil is required to be loose, fertile and well drained, and attention must be paid to preventing and controlling diseases such as root rot. Artificial cultivation mostly uses seed propagation. After raising seedlings and transplanting them, good water and fertilizer management and shading management are the key to obtaining high-quality roots.

In terms of application value, Tianqi is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. Traditional Chinese medicine considers it warm in nature and sweet with a slightly bitter taste, with effects of dissipating blood stasis and stopping bleeding, reducing swelling and relieving pain. It is often eaten in small amounts in ways such as sliced and stewed in soup, or ground into powder and taken with water, and is also often used in formulas for traumatic injuries. Daily consumption should be kept within controlled amounts. Pregnant women and other special groups must follow medical advice, and it should not be taken on one's own in large amounts over the long term.

A common problem is confusion with Tu Tianqi. Tu Tianqi is Gynura segetum. Its appearance is similar to Tianqi, but it contains components harmful to the liver, and mistaken consumption may cause liver damage. When purchasing, the source can be used to distinguish them: Tianqi belongs to Araliaceae, its cut surface is grayish green or yellow-green, and when tasted it is bitter at first and then slightly sweet afterward; if it is difficult to identify, it is recommended to buy through proper channels.