What is the difference between Huangcao and Dendrobium officinale? Learn how to tell them apart
Huangcao Dendrobium is the stem of Dendrobium chrysanthum, an orchid family plant, with a flowering period from March to September. Today I will introduce to you the difference between Huangcao and Dendrobium officinale.
1. The difference between Huangcao and Dendrobium officinale
1. Different taste
Huangcao Dendrobium has more residue when eaten, relatively less gelatinous substance, and does not have the same glutinous mouthfeel as Dendrobium officinale. This is a relatively direct way to judge it.
2. Different appearance
The cut surface diameter of Fengdou made from Dendrobium officinale is generally below 5 mm, and its workmanship is also relatively fine, but Huangcao Dendrobium cannot be made into this appearance because of its relatively large size.
3. Different yield
Huangcao Dendrobium does not have very high requirements for the growing environment, is usually harvested once a year, and its yield per mu is also relatively high. Dendrobium officinale has very high requirements for the growing environment, and its yield cannot meet market demand, so it is rarely used as medicinal material.
2. Pharmacological effects of Dendrobium officinale
1. Fluid-promoting effect: Dendrobium officinale has a fluid-promoting effect, mainly manifested as promoting glandular secretion and organ movement.
2. Blood sugar-lowering effect: Dendrobium officinale can reduce blood sugar values induced by streptozotocin.
3. Enhancing body immunity: Dendrobium officinale granules (TPSH) can promote the phagocytic function of macrophages in tumor-bearing animals, enhance the proliferation and differentiation of T lymphocytes and the activity of NK cells, and can significantly increase the serum hemolysin value of tumor-bearing animals, suggesting that TPSH has a certain enhancing effect on nonspecific immune function, specific cellular immune function, and humoral immune function.
Dendrobium officinale grows on semi-shaded, moist rocks in mountainous areas at altitudes up to 1600 m. It is mainly distributed in Anhui, Zhejiang, Fujian and other places in China.