Used as a tonic (in humans) in anemia, fatigue, shallow and strained breathing, poor appetite, dyspepsia, and diabetes.

Unusual violet-streaked green bell-shaped flowers. Property:Sweet in flavour,Sweet and neutral, neutral in property;acting on the spleenand lung channels.

Prefers a well-drained fertile light soil in full sun or semi shade. Plants only succeed in full sun if the soil remains moist during the growing season. Prefers a slightly acid soil.

Although quite cold-hardy when dormant, the young growth in spring, even on mature plants, is frost-tender and so it is best to grow the plants in a position sheltered from the early morning sun. A climbing plant, supporting itself by twining and scrambling over other plants. The plant resents root disturbance and should be planted out into its permanent position as soon as possible. It is best grown on a high bank in order to give a good view of the flowers. Plants are very susceptible to the ravages of slugs. The young shoots in spring are particularly at risk, though older growth is also eaten

The roots are dug in spring or autumn, but autumn herbs are of better quality. They are dried in the sun and cut into pieces.

As famous as ginseng in China, this herb helps strengthen the lungs, spleen and stomach. A twining and climbing herbaceous perennial native to China, codonopsis is sometimes known as 'Poor Man's Ginseng' or 'Bastard Ginseng', as it builds vital force and tones the blood. It is also nutritious, sweet and warming, containing high levels of immune-enhancing polysaccharides. Dang Shen roots are used for energy deficiency, strengthening the immune system, lowering blood pressure, helping lack of appetite and invigorating the spleen.