In the world of Chinese medicinal herbs, there is a remedy long valued for restoring the body's natural balance. Dragon's Blood, known as Xuejie in Chinese, is a deep red resin from the Dracaena tree. For more than 1,500 years, it has been regarded in traditional Chinese medicine as an important herb for promoting blood circulation and relieving blood stasis.

Blood stagnation is believed to occur when blood flow is obstructed, whether by traumatic injury, bruising or wounds that heal slowly. Dragon's Blood has traditionally been used to promote circulation, stop bleeding, relieve pain and support tissue repair. Quietly but effectively, it has earned a lasting place in Chinese medicine as a trusted remedy for restoring the body's natural flow.

The tree behind the remedy

The source of Dragon's Blood is Dracaena, which grows in tropical regions of Africa and Asia. When the tree is wounded, it produces a deep red resin that can heal wounds.

Although Dragon's Blood has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, it was imported from overseas for most of that time.

In the 1970s, Chinese botanist Cai Xitao discovered wild populations of Dracaena cochinchinensis in the tropical forests of southwest China's Yunnan Province. The slow-growing evergreen species is found in parts of Yunnan and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Cai's discovery laid the foundation for the production of China's first domestically sourced Dragon's Blood, ending the country's long-standing reliance on imports.

A note for usage

While Dragon's Blood has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, it should be used with caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it, as traditional Chinese medicine considers its blood-activating properties unsuitable during pregnancy. People with bleeding disorders or heavy menstrual bleeding should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Those taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin or aspirin, should also seek medical advice before using Dragon's Blood.

Executive producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Editors: Du Junzhi, Chen Hongyu

Comic: He Yunhe