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As the old saying goes, "In spring, Artemisia is sown, and in autumn, it's harvested with firewood." This highlights the importance of timing in the collection of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. The seasonal harvesting of these plants is strictly regulated, as it directly affects the quality, potency, and sustainability of the medicinal resources. Proper and timely harvesting is crucial to maintaining the concentration of active compounds and ensuring the long-term availability of these valuable herbs.
Here are some key methods for harvesting different types of Chinese medicinal materials:
First, root and rhizome herbs should be collected during the plant’s dormant period. This usually occurs after the leaves have fallen in autumn or before new growth begins in early spring. At this time, the roots store the highest levels of nutrients and active ingredients. Examples include Codonopsis, Astragalus, Salvia, and others. However, some species like Angelica and Chuanxiong are best harvested during their growing season to avoid flowering or lignification. The harvesting period varies by species—some can be harvested within a year, while others, such as ginseng, require 4–6 years of cultivation. When collecting, choose dry or cloudy days, and use tools to carefully dig out the roots, ensuring the root bark remains intact to preserve quality.
Second, bark herbs are typically harvested in the spring-summer transition when sap flow is at its peak. This is when the bark contains the most active compounds and is easiest to peel. Species like Eucommia, Cinnamon, and Phellodendron are commonly collected using peeling or ring-barking techniques.
Third, root bark herbs are harvested along with the roots. After digging up the roots, they are beaten or kneaded to separate the outer bark from the inner wood. Examples include Paeonia suffruticosa and Polygala tenuifolia.
Fourth, flowers and herbaceous parts are collected based on their stage of development. Some, like Magnolia and Coltsfoot, are picked when buds are still closed, while others, such as honeysuckle and chrysanthemum, are harvested when fully open. The collection method involves careful picking on sunny days, avoiding damage and discoloration.
Fifth, whole herb medicines are generally collected when the plant is in full vegetative growth, just before flowering. However, some species, like Artemisia annua, are harvested before blooming, while others, such as Verbena, are collected after flowering. Certain herbs can be cut multiple times per season, like mint and lemongrass.
Sixth, leafy herbs are best harvested when the leaves are lush and before the buds open. Examples include Daqingye and Perilla. A few, like mulberry and ginkgo, are collected after frost. Harvesting methods include picking, cutting, or plucking.
Seventh, fruits are harvested when mature and fully developed. For example, hawthorn and gardenia are collected when ripe, while some, like green citrus, are gathered when unripe. Fruits that ripen unevenly, such as hawthorn, require careful timing to ensure quality. Juicy berries must be handled gently to avoid damage.
Eighth, seeds are collected when the fruit is fully mature and the seeds are firm. Some seeds, like those of Impatiens, need to be harvested before the pods split. Methods include hand-picking, cutting, or threshing. In some cases, the fruit flesh is removed before the seeds are extracted, especially when the pulp is also used medicinally.
Proper harvesting not only ensures the potency of the herbs but also supports sustainable practices, helping to preserve traditional knowledge and natural resources for future generations.