Dried Medicinal Leech "Mahuang" (Whitmania pigra) - Premium Grade Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Raw Material for Decoction & Formulation

Product Name: Dried Leech (Whitmania pigra) - "Mahuang"
Specification: Whole, Dried Body | Traditional Herbal Material

I. Product Overview

This product is Dried Leech, traditionally known as "Mahuang" in Chinese herbal medicine. It consists of the processed, dried whole body of Whitmania pigra , a non-blood-feeding leech species widely used in the market. It is a fundamental material for achieving the traditional effect of activating blood and resolving stasis in numerous classic and modern formulations.

II. Key Specifications

III. Core Advantages & Market Position

1. The Mainstream Market Standard
Whitmania pigra is the most common and economically cultivated species used in Chinese herbal medicine, constituting the mainstream supply of "Leech" in the market. It offers reliable availability and consistent quality for large-scale production.

2. Distinct from Hirudo nipponica (Water Leech)
It is crucial to differentiate this product from Hirudo nipponica ("Shuizhi" or Japanese Medicinal Leech):

• Source & Diet: Whitmania pigra is non-blood-feeding (feeds on mollusks), while Hirudo nipponica is blood-feeding.

• Key Active: Whitmania pigra does not contain natural hirudin, the potent anticoagulant found in Hirudo nipponica. Its pharmacological effects are mediated by other components like heparin.

• Traditional Application Focus: Its action is generally considered blood-activating, suitable for generalized stasis patterns, trauma, and pain. Hirudo nipponica is considered stronger and more targeted for breaking blood and expelling stasis in severe conditions.

3. Cost-Effective for Standard Formulations
Due to easier cultivation and higher yield, it provides a cost-effective and practical option for a wide range of traditional patent medicines and standard herbal formulas where its level of blood-activating effect is required.

IV. Target Applications

• Traditional Chinese Medicine Formulas: Widely used in classic and modern TCM preparations targeting blood stasis, such as in formulas for traumatic injuries, amenorrhea, and pain from stasis.

• Chinese Patent Medicine Production: A standard raw material for numerous commercially available herbal pills, capsules, and tablets.

• General Herbal Practice: A commonly used herb by TCM practitioners for conditions involving bruising, swelling, and localized pain due to stagnation.

V. Packaging & Storage

• Primary Packaging: Typically in 1 kg bags or according to buyer's specification.

• Storage: Store in a dry, cool place, protected from moths.

• Shelf Life: Up to 36 months under proper conditions.

Disclaimer: This is a traditional herbal material. The information provided is for descriptive purposes. Efficacy and use should be determined by a qualified practitioner.