Shangdang Codonopsis Root

Shangdang Codonopsis Root

Shangdang Codonopsis Root is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Primarily produced in Changzhi, it is named Codonopsis (Dangshen) because the region was historically known as Shangdang. The root of the Codonopsis plant is used medicinally to invigorate the spleen and boost qi, treating various ailments. It serves as the main ingredient in many traditional Chinese medicine formulas.

　　 Codonopsis and ginseng both belong to the category of qi-tonifying herbs. They share similar effects, but Codonopsis has a milder nature—neither drying nor dampening, neither cold nor hot—making it more beneficial for middle-aged and elderly people than ginseng. Although Codonopsis can be used as a substitute for ginseng, the two differ significantly in botanical classification. Ginseng is the dried root of the Panax ginseng plant from the Araliaceae family, while Codonopsis is the dried root of the perennial twining herbaceous Codonopsis pilosula plant from the Campanulaceae family, representing distinct varieties of traditional Chinese medicinal materials.