Hong Tiao Zi Cao Root Extract Powder – Plum Flower 100 Grams
Purple Gromwell Root | Lithospermum erythrorhizon | Traditional Chinese Herbal Extract
A Remarkable Purple Root with Centuries of Herbal Tradition
Distinctive botanical heritage. Fascinating plant chemistry. Trusted Plum Flower quality.
Discover Plum Flower Hong Tiao Zi Cao Root Extract Powder, prepared from the root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, a botanical known for its naturally occurring red-purple pigments and long history in traditional Chinese herbal practice.
Also called Zi Cao, Purple Gromwell Root, or Shikon, this distinctive herb has attracted scientific interest because of its naturally occurring plant compounds, particularly shikonin and related pigments.
Available in a convenient 100-gram extract powder, Hong Tiao Zi Cao offers a compact alternative to storing and preparing loose dried roots.
Hong Tiao Zi Cao Product Details
| Product Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | Hong Tiao Zi Cao (红条紫草), Zi Cao |
| Common Names | Purple Gromwell Root, Gromwell Root, Shikon, Chinese Lithospermum Root |
| Botanical Name | Lithospermum erythrorhizon Siebold & Zucc. |
| Plant Part | Root |
| Brand | Plum Flower |
| Form | Single-Herb Extract Powder Concentrate |
| Package Size | 100 grams (3.5 ounces) |
| Other Ingredients | Dextrin derived from non-GMO corn |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Traditional Properties | Sweet, salty, cold |
| Traditional Meridians | Heart, Liver, Kidney |
Why Choose Plum Flower Hong Tiao Zi Cao Extract Powder?
When selecting traditional Chinese herbal products, botanical identity, clear ingredient information, and reliable sourcing matter.
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Convenient extract form: A compact alternative to bulky dried roots.
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Clearly identified botanical: Listed as Lithospermum erythrorhizon.
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Single-herb preparation: Features Hong Tiao Zi Cao rather than a multi-herb formula.
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100-gram bottle: Convenient for organized storage.
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Established herbal brand: Manufactured under the Plum Flower name.
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Ingredient transparency: Contains non-GMO corn-derived dextrin as an additional ingredient.
A traditional botanical with a distinctive identity, offered in a practical modern extract format.
What Is Hong Tiao Zi Cao?
Hong Tiao Zi Cao is a traditional Chinese botanical obtained from the root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, a member of the borage family (Boraginaceae).
One of its most recognizable characteristics is the natural reddish-purple coloration associated with compounds found in the root.
Historically, Zi Cao has appeared in Chinese herbal literature and traditional preparations.
In traditional Chinese herbal terminology, it is described as sweet, salty, and cold and associated with the Heart, Liver, and Kidney meridian systems.
These are historical classifications used in traditional herbal practice and should not be interpreted as scientifically established effects on those organs.
Is Hong Tiao Zi Cao the Same as Zi Cao?
Zi Cao is a traditional herbal name that can refer to more than one botanical source.
Hong Tiao Zi Cao commonly refers to Lithospermum erythrorhizon, while other products sold as Zi Cao may come from related botanical species.
Because these plants are not botanically identical, checking the scientific name is an important part of choosing the correct herb.
What Makes Purple Gromwell Root Unique?
The root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon contains naturally occurring plant pigments known as naphthoquinones.
One of the most widely studied is shikonin, along with related compounds such as acetylshikonin and deoxyshikonin.
These compounds have attracted scientific attention because of their distinctive chemistry and potential applications in botanical research.
Important: The presence of these compounds in the botanical does not establish their concentration in this particular finished extract or prove a health benefit.
Understanding Plum Flower Extract Powders
Plum Flower produces traditional Chinese herbal extract powders designed for convenient storage and preparation.
Some single-herb extracts contain dextrin derived from non-GMO corn to assist with the production of a stable powder.
This Hong Tiao Zi Cao product lists non-GMO corn-derived dextrin as an additional ingredient.
It should not be described as a product containing no other ingredients.
How Should Hong Tiao Zi Cao Extract Powder Be Used?
Follow the manufacturer's current label and the instructions of a qualified healthcare professional familiar with this botanical.
This product should not be treated as an ordinary culinary powder or used in homemade preparations without appropriate guidance.
Do not substitute traditional whole-root measurements for extract-powder serving amounts.
The appropriate preparation and use depend on the manufacturer's directions and individual safety considerations.
Quality You Can Trust – The 1st Chinese Herbs Commitment
When you purchase Chinese herbal extracts, quality, authenticity, and confidence matter.
At 1st Chinese Herbs, we have been helping customers choose traditional Chinese herbs since 1994. We understand that customers want more than just a bottle of herbal powder. They want to know what they're buying, where it comes from, and that careful attention has been given to quality.
That's why we emphasize:
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Botanical Authenticity: Proper identification of herbs to help ensure you're purchasing the correct botanical.
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Careful Sourcing: Products selected from established herbal suppliers with quality-control practices.
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Manufacturing Standards: Attention to consistent processing and manufacturing procedures.
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Quality Testing: Supplier testing for relevant contaminants, including heavy metals and microbial concerns.
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Ingredient Transparency: Clear information about botanical ingredients and any additional ingredients.
Why shop with 1st Chinese Herbs?
We're a family-owned herbal business with over 30 years of experience. We believe in honest product information, dependable service, and helping customers make informed purchasing decisions.
Have questions about this extract? Contact our herbal team. We're happy to help with product information and inquiries about available Certificates of Analysis.
Buy with confidence from 1st Chinese Herbs — trusted herbal knowledge and personal service since 1994.
Scientific Research on Hong Tiao Zi Cao
Researchers have investigated Lithospermum erythrorhizon, its natural pigments, and the chemistry of shikonin and related compounds.
1. Shikonin and Its Derivatives: Chemistry and Toxicology
Read the PubMed research review
A 2022 scientific review examines the natural sources, chemistry, production, and toxicological research surrounding shikonin and related compounds.
2. Research on Lithospermum erythrorhizon Cell Cultures
This research reviews the plant's distinctive pigments and how scientists study their production in laboratory cell cultures.
3. Shikonin: Pharmacokinetics and Safety Research
Read the PubMed research review
This review examines how shikonin behaves in experimental systems, including absorption, metabolism, and potential toxicity.
Research note: These publications primarily examine botanical compounds and experimental research. They do not demonstrate that Plum Flower Hong Tiao Zi Cao Extract Powder treats, prevents, or cures any disease. Safety findings involving isolated compounds may not directly establish the risks of this finished product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hong Tiao Zi Cao?
Hong Tiao Zi Cao is a traditional Chinese herbal name associated with the root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, commonly called Purple Gromwell Root.
Why is Zi Cao associated with a purple or red color?
The root contains naturally occurring pigments, including shikonin-related compounds, that contribute to its distinctive coloration.
Is Hong Tiao Zi Cao the same as every product labeled Zi Cao?
Not necessarily. The name Zi Cao can be used for different botanical sources. Always check the scientific name.
Does this extract contain other ingredients?
Yes. The supplied product information lists dextrin derived from non-GMO corn.
Is this the same as whole powdered gromwell root?
No. An extract powder is processed differently from simply grinding the dried root. Their compositions and serving measurements should not be assumed to be equivalent.
How should I store the extract powder?
Keep the container tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Cautions and Safety Information
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use, particularly if you have kidney or liver disease, take prescription medications, or have other medical conditions.
Research on shikonin has identified potential toxicity concerns. The safety of repeated or prolonged oral use of this finished extract has not been established here.
Do not exceed manufacturer-recommended amounts. Do not use as a substitute for medical treatment.
Keep out of reach of children.
California Proposition 65
Product-specific warning verification required.
If this product requires a California Proposition 65 warning, the applicable warning must be displayed with the appropriate chemical identification and exposure-risk language.
For additional information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Why Purchase From 1st Chinese Herbs?
Traditional Chinese herbs deserve accurate information, careful sourcing, and knowledgeable customer service.
Family-owned since 1994, 1st Chinese Herbs specializes in Chinese bulk herbs, herbal extracts, teapills, and traditional botanical products.
We believe informed customers should have access to clear botanical identification, ingredient information, preparation guidance, and responsible herbal education.
Explore Plum Flower Hong Tiao Zi Cao Root Extract Powder, 100 grams, and discover a distinctive traditional Chinese botanical backed by a growing body of scientific research into its natural chemistry.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
