Botanical Name: Smilax glabra

Common Name:

Also, Known As: China Root, Chobchini, Chopchini, Toupchini, Kaitha, Mootrilata, Ayadi, Kumarika, Kaltamara, Kaaduhambu, Ghotvel and Kondadantena

Habitat: East Asia, China, Japan

Origin: China

Harvested: Wild

Part used: Root

General Information:

Smilax china is a deciduous Climber growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). It is hardy for the zone. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light, medium and heavy soils. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Root - cooked rich in starch, the large and fleshy roots can be dried and ground into a powder. The root is harvested by severing larger roots near the crown and leaving the smaller roots to grow on. Young shoots and leaves - raw or cooked. Used as a potherb. The leaves are said to contain rutin, but no details of quantity were given. Fruit - raw. Eaten to quench the thirst. The fruit is about 9 mm in diameter. A tea is made from the leaves. A yellow dye is made from the root and leaves when alum is used as a mordant

How to use:

Hot Infusion:

The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup of teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. Hot water is needed to draw out the antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, flavonoids, and volatile oils from the botanicals. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!

Tips:

You can sweeten your herbal tea with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
You can make ice cubes or pops by freezing tea in ice tray or pop molds.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Smilax Root Cut - China (Chobchini)