Long Dan Cao (Chinese Gentian Root) Cut – ActiveHerb 1 pound
Long Dan Cao (Gentiana scabra), commonly known as Chinese Gentian Root, has been an important botanical in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. ActiveHerb's premium cut Long Dan Cao contains only carefully selected Chinese Gentian Root with no fillers, preservatives, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives.
The sliced root is ideal for preparing traditional herbal decoctions and customized herbal formulas under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Every package is carefully processed and sealed to help preserve freshness and quality.
Product Details
- Common Name: Chinese Gentian Root
- Pinyin Name: Long Dan Cao
- Botanical Name: Gentiana scabra
- Traditional Channels: Gallbladder, Liver, Stomach
- Traditional Nature: Bitter, Cold
- Form: Premium Cut / Sliced Root
- Ingredients: 100% Chinese Gentian Root (Gentiana scabra)
- Net Weight: 1 lb
- Origin: China
- Brand: ActiveHerb
About Long Dan Cao
Long Dan Cao has a long history of traditional use in Chinese herbal practice and continues to be one of the best-known bitter herbs used in classical herbal formulas. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, it is traditionally categorized as bitter and cold and is associated with the Gallbladder, Liver, and Stomach meridians.
Rather than focusing on a single herb, Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes balance. Long Dan Cao is commonly included as one component of customized herbal formulas prepared according to traditional principles.
Traditional herbal knowledge has been passed down through generations, making Long Dan Cao one of the classic herbs found in many historical Chinese herbal texts.
Traditional Herbal Characteristics
- Traditional Flavor: Bitter
- Traditional Nature: Cold
- Traditionally considered non-toxic
- Frequently included in traditional multi-herb formulas
- Prepared as a traditional herbal decoction - How To Prepare A Decoction
Naturally Occurring Plant Constituents
Like many botanicals, Chinese Gentian Root naturally contains a variety of plant compounds, including:
- Gentiopicrin
- Gentianose
- Swertiamarin
- Gentisin
These constituents occur naturally within the plant and contribute to its unique botanical profile.
How to Identify Quality Long Dan Cao
High-quality Long Dan Cao should consist of clean, well-prepared slices of root with a naturally firm texture and characteristic bitter aroma. Properly processed herbs should be free from excessive dust, foreign material, or signs of moisture damage.
Quality processing and careful storage help preserve the herb's natural characteristics from harvest through packaging.
Quality You Can Trust
ActiveHerb is recognized for producing premium Chinese herbal products using carefully selected raw materials and strict quality-control standards.
- 100% pure Chinese Gentian Root
- No fillers or additives
- No artificial colors or dyes
- No preservatives
- Laboratory tested for identity and purity
- Manufactured in GMP-certified facilities
- Carefully cleaned before packaging
- Packaged in a sealed, moisture-resistant bag to help maintain freshness
Preparing Long Dan Cao
The cut root is traditionally prepared as a decoction by simmering the herb in water according to the recommendations of a qualified herbal practitioner or trusted herbal reference.
Many practitioners combine Long Dan Cao with other botanicals to create customized herbal formulas based on traditional Chinese herbal principles.
Visit our educational How to Use Bulk Herbs guide for information about preparing:
- Traditional decoctions
- Herbal teas
- Tinctures
- Poultices
- Salves
- Capsules
- Foot soaks
Storage Recommendations
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, excess humidity, and heat. Proper storage helps maintain the herb's natural quality over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product pure Long Dan Cao?
Yes. This product contains only 100% cut Chinese Gentian Root with no fillers, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.
How is this herb traditionally prepared?
Long Dan Cao is most commonly prepared as a traditional herbal decoction by simmering the cut root in water.
Who commonly purchases this herb?
This product is frequently selected by licensed herbal practitioners, Traditional Chinese Medicine students, herbal educators, and experienced herbal enthusiasts.
Does the size of the slices vary?
Yes. Because this is a natural agricultural product, the size and appearance of individual slices may vary slightly from batch to batch.
Why Buy from 1st Chinese Herbs?
For more than 30 years, 1st Chinese Herbs has supplied premium Chinese herbs to practitioners, students, and customers throughout the United States. We carefully select products from trusted manufacturers so you can shop with confidence.
- Trusted herbal supplier since 1994
- Over 30 years of herbal experience
- Fast shipping from Washington State
- Premium herbs from respected manufacturers
- Carefully selected inventory
- Friendly and knowledgeable customer support
- Certificates of Analysis available for many products upon request
Did You Know?
The name Long Dan Cao has been recognized in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years. It is especially known for its naturally intense bitter flavor, making it one of the most distinctive herbs found in traditional Chinese herbal practice.
Order Premium Long Dan Cao Today
If you're looking for authentic, premium-quality Chinese Gentian Root from a trusted supplier, ActiveHerb Long Dan Cao offers exceptional quality, purity, and careful processing. Whether you're preparing traditional decoctions or building a customized herbal collection, you can purchase with confidence from 1st Chinese Herbs.
Important Safety Information
- Use only as directed by your qualified healthcare practitioner.
- Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing unless advised by your healthcare provider.
- Consult your healthcare provider before using herbal products if you have a medical condition or take prescription medications.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use if the package is damaged or compromised.
California Proposition 65
California residents can learn more by visiting our California Proposition 65 information page.
Educational Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes only. Traditional Chinese Medicine concepts are historical in nature and are not medical claims. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products.
Scientific References
The following peer-reviewed publications provide additional information about the botany, chemistry, and traditional research surrounding Gentiana scabra (Long Dan Cao).
- The Chemical Structure, Pharmacological Activity, and Clinical Progress of Gentianae Radix et Rhizoma (2025)
- Genus Gentiana: A Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Molecular Mechanism (2020)
- Medicinal, Biological and Phytochemical Properties of Gentiana Species (2017)
- The Anti-inflammatory Secoiridoid Glycosides from Gentianae Scabrae Radix (2015)
- Secoiridoid Glycosides from Gentiana scabra (2001)
- The Influence of Rhizosphere Soil Microorganisms and Environmental Factors on Gentiopicroside Content in the Roots and Rhizomes of Gentiana scabra (2025)
