It's a fungus, not a root

A kind soul told me that this caterpillar-looking root is actually a fungus called cordyceps. Searched the net a little and found that this particular species used in Chinese herbal soup is Cordyceps sinensis (冬虫草).

Here's something from a traditional Chinese medicine website:

http://tcm.health-info.org/Herbology.Materia.Medica/dongchongxiacao-properties.htm


Dong Chong Xia Cao (冬虫草)

Also Known As: Caterpillar Fungus, Cs-4, Dong Chong Xia Cao, Dong Chong Zia Cao, Hsia Ts'Ao Tung Ch'Ung, Vegetable Caterpillar. Cordyceps sinensis.

Family: Ascomycetes or Clavicipitaceae.
Properties: SWEET - WARM
Dosage: 4.5-12g.
Meridian: KIDNEY, LUNG

-strengthen kidneys, tonify yang impotence, sore/weak back
-tonify kidney yang, nourish lung yin and transform phlegm
-cough, wheezing, bleeding, Xiao Ke

Also Used For:
Orally, Dong Chong Xia Cao / Cordyceps is used for strengthening the immune system, for reducing the effects of aging, promoting longevity, treating lethargy, and improving liver function in people with hepatitis B. It is also used to treat coughs, chronic bronchitis, respiratory disorders, kidney disorders, frequent nocturia, male sexual dysfunction, anemia, heart arrhythmias, high cholesterol, liver disorders, dizziness, weakness, tinnitus, wasting, and opium addiction. It is also used as a stimulant, a tonic, and an adaptogen which is used to increase energy, enhance stamina, and reduce fatigue.


Yay. I learnt something new today. :)