Xinjiang Fritillaria

Xinjiang Fritillaria

　　Xinjiang Fritillaria is a precious medicinal herb that ranks alongside Sichuan Fritillaria and Zhejiang Fritillaria. It includes several varieties such as Ili Fritillaria, Fergana Fritillaria, and Sand Fritillaria, collectively known as Xinjiang Fritillaria. Except for Sand Fritillaria, which thrives on sandy riverbanks, the other three types mostly grow in mountain meadows and under shrubs. Ili Fritillaria is mainly produced in Yining and Huocheng; Fergana Fritillaria is found in many parts of Xinjiang; Lanceleaf Fritillaria is primarily produced in the Tacheng region; Sand Fritillaria is grown in Huocheng and Qapqal.　　As early as the Qing Dynasty, Xinjiang Fritillaria was already being harvested and utilized. At that time, the markets in Changji and Qitai in northern Xinjiang served as distribution hubs, and the herb was transported by camel and horse along the northern route of the ancient Silk Road, shipped to ports such as Tianjin and commonly referred to as "ancient Fritillaria." Due to its scarcity, it was very expensive.　　In the past, Xinjiang Fritillaria was mostly wild. To meet the needs of domestic healthcare and export demand, medical research departments began artificial cultivation experiments in the late 1950s, achieving success. Production of Fritillaria will continue to steadily increase. (Urumqi)