Coptis Root Whole (Coptis Chinensis)

Coptis Root Whole (Coptis chinensis) is the dried, intact rhizome of the Coptis plant, a revered herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine known as Huang Lian (黄连). It is prized for its intensely bitter taste and powerful heat-clearing, damp-drying, and detoxifying properties.

Coptis root contains a high concentration of the alkaloid berberine, which is responsible for many of its clinical effects. Traditionally, it has been used to address conditions associated with internal heat, damp-heat, or toxicity, such as digestive inflammation, mouth ulcers, high fevers, or skin eruptions. It is especially effective for stomach and intestinal heat, including symptoms like diarrhea, acid reflux, or chronic gastritis.

In Western herbal contexts, Coptis is often compared to goldenseal due to its berberine content, and it's gaining popularity for supporting gut health, blood sugar regulation, and antimicrobial defenses. Its strong bitterness also stimulates bile flow and liver activity.

Whole Coptis root is typically decocted in water for internal formulas or used in powdered or tinctured preparations. Due to its potency, it is generally combined with other herbs that moderate its cold and drying nature, particularly when used long-term.

Each batch of Coptis Root Whole is carefully selected for its golden hue, dense texture, and signature bitter aroma. This is a strong medicinal herb, and its use is best guided by an experienced practitioner to avoid overcooling or disruption to the digestive fire.