Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae – Gancao

Description of the drugs: Root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis: Roots cylindrical, 25–100 cm long, 0.6–3.5 cm in diameter. The outer bark loose or tight. Externally reddish-brown or grayish-brown, obviously longitudinally wrinkled, furrowed, lenticel-like protruded and with sparse rootlet scars. Texture compact, structure slightly fibrous, yellowish-white, starchy, cambium ring distinct, rays radiate, some with clefts. Rhizomes cylindrical, externally with bud scars, pith present in the center of fracture. Odour, slight; taste, sweet and characteristic.