Traveling through time and space: Medical skills travel the world

Chapter 198 Rare Herbs

Chen Fang carefully examined the root of Astragalus and thought to herself, "The climate in the north is dry, maybe that's why it grows so well." She looked up and asked, "Merchant, is there a particular time to collect Astragalus?"

"Of course." The businessman nodded, his tone full of professionalism. "Astragalus is generally best picked in spring and autumn. In spring, the roots of Astragalus are full, while in autumn, the medicinal effects are most significant."

"I understand. It seems that the collection of medicinal materials is closely related to the season." Chen Fang nodded seriously, and his understanding of medicinal materials deepened.

The merchant continued to guide her, pointing to another medicinal herb: "That's 'wolfberry', which mainly grows in the arid areas of the northwest. Not only can wolfberry be used as medicine, it is also often used to make tea, which has the effect of nourishing the liver and kidneys."

"The bright red color of wolfberry is really attractive," Chen Fang exclaimed. "I heard that it is also good for eyesight. Is this true?"

"That's true." The businessman smiled. "Wolfberry is rich in nutrients. Long-term consumption is good for the eyes. However, it should be used in moderation. Excessive use may have the opposite effect."

"Merchant, you are really knowledgeable." Chen Fang praised sincerely, "I hope I can understand the characteristics and uses of each medicinal material like you."

"This requires time and experience to accumulate." The businessman encouraged, "Next, let's go take a look at the 'Chuanxiong' over there."

Chen Fang followed the merchant to the Chuanxiong stall and saw the long and thin bundles of herbs. She couldn't help but wonder, "Where does Chuanxiong come from?"

"Chuanxiong mainly grows in the mountainous areas of Sichuan. Due to its unique climate and soil conditions, the medicinal effects of Chuanxiong are particularly significant." The businessman patiently explained, "It has the effect of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and is often used to treat headaches and irregular menstruation."

"I heard that Chuanxiong has a strong fragrance. Is it related to its growing environment?" Chen Fang asked.

"That's right." The merchant nodded in praise. "Since Chuanxiong grows in a humid environment, it absorbs rich nutrients, so it has a strong fragrance and a stronger medicinal effect."

"It's amazing," Chen Fang said with emotion, "Each medicinal herb has its own story and background, as if they are also telling their own experiences."

"You are right." The businessman smiled. "Medicinal herbs are not only good remedies for treating diseases, but also precious treasures bestowed upon us by nature. Only by understanding their sources can we make better use of them."

Then, the merchant took Chen Fang to a stall where a small pile of "white peony" was placed. "White peony mainly grows in the hilly areas of the south. It has the effect of nourishing blood and regulating menstruation, and is often used for women's health care."

"The color of white peony is very beautiful, like a pure white flower." Chen Fang praised, "Its medicinal effect is also very mild, suitable for women to use."

"Yes, the mild nature of white peony makes it very popular among many medicinal herbs." The businessman nodded with approval in his eyes, "Your understanding of medicinal herbs is getting deeper and deeper."

"I will continue to work hard," Chen Fang said confidently. "Each medicinal herb has its unique value. I want to pass on their stories to more people."

The merchant nodded with satisfaction and continued, "Next, let's go take a look at the 'Guizhi' over there. Guizhi is made from the young branches of the cassia tree and is mainly used to induce sweating and relieve symptoms. It is suitable for use at the beginning of a cold."

"The aroma of cassia twigs must be very tempting, right?" Chen Fang asked curiously.

"Indeed." The merchant smiled. "The aroma of cinnamon twigs can not only refresh the mind, but also soothe the mood. Its medicinal effect and aroma complement each other, making people feel very comfortable."

"I think I will fall in love with these medicinal herbs." Chen Fang said with emotion, "They are not only good remedies for treating diseases, but also gifts from nature."

She walked forward and carefully observed the unique herb. She couldn't help but wonder, "Merchant, what is this herb? I heard it helps improve memory?"

Seeing her so concerned, the merchant immediately stepped forward and said with a smile: "Miss Chen, this herb is called 'ginseng fruit'. It grows very rarely in the mountains and is known as the 'memory herb' because of its preciousness. It is said that regular consumption can help improve memory and enhance mental agility."

"Ginseng fruit?" Chen Fang repeated, and became deeply interested in the name. "How is its appearance different from ordinary herbs?"

"The leaves of ginseng fruit are relatively broad and bright green, and the root is a unique purple color. It looks like ginseng, hence the name." The merchant patiently explained, "This herb has a very harsh growing environment. It usually needs to grow in high-altitude mountainous areas to absorb abundant sunlight and minerals."

"It sounds amazing." Chen Fang's eyes sparkled. "Is there a special time to pick this herb?"

"Indeed." The merchant nodded. "Ginseng fruit usually matures in autumn. Be careful when picking it to avoid damaging the roots. Once the roots are damaged, its medicinal effect will be greatly reduced."

"I want to try this herb." Chen Fang's tone was full of anticipation. "If it can really help me improve my memory, then I will definitely benefit a lot in my studies."

"However, you should also be careful to use the right amount of ginseng fruit," the merchant reminded. "Overdosage may have the opposite effect and affect the body's balance."

"I will use it with caution." Chen Fang nodded solemnly and secretly decided to study the usage of this herb carefully.

Seeing her so serious, the businessman was secretly pleased and continued, "Ginseng fruit can not only enhance memory, but also help improve sleep quality. It is suitable for those who often stay up late to study."

"Improve sleep quality?" Chen Fang was surprised. "That's great! I've been suffering from insomnia recently due to studying. If I can use this herb to regulate my sleep, my quality of life will definitely improve."

"Yes, many students are full of praise for this herb." The businessman smiled slightly, "However, remember to consult a professional doctor before using it to ensure that it is suitable for your constitution."

"I will, businessman." Chen Fang said firmly, "I want to know more about ginseng fruit. Maybe I can find relevant records in the book."

"That's good." The businessman nodded with satisfaction. "The accumulation of knowledge is endless, especially in the research of medicinal materials. The deeper you go, the more secrets you can discover."

Chen Fang's heart was filled with longing for the future, imagining that she could help more people through these herbs. She asked again, "Merchant, is this herb common in the market?"

"Ginseng fruit is rare and not commonly seen in the market." The merchant shook his head. "If you want to get it, you may need to go to some specialized herbal medicine stores or ask experienced herbal farmers."

"I will definitely go look for it." Chen Fang's eyes flashed with determination, "I hope to spread the value of this herb to more people so that everyone can benefit from it."

"I am pleased with your enthusiasm, Miss Chen." The merchant said with a smile, "The world of medicinal materials is broad and profound. I hope you will continue to explore on this road and discover more treasures."

As the conversation deepened, Chen Fang's understanding of ginseng fruit became deeper and deeper, and her love for medicinal materials became stronger and stronger. She imagined that in the future, she might be able to become an excellent medicinal material scholar and help more people solve health problems.