Pangolin and Paoshanjia

When it comes to pangolin and Paoshanjia, people often wonder if they are the same. Although their names seem similar, they are actually two different species. Both their appearance, species classification, and functions are distinct. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between them. Pangolin is a nationally protected animal of the second grade and cannot be consumed at will.

Pangolin

Pangolin is a general term for the pangolin family, including eight species. They are terrestrial mammals with a narrow and elongated body, covered with scales. Their limbs are short and stubby, and their tails are flat and long. The back is slightly raised. Pangolins mostly live in subtropical deciduous forests. They often hide in caves during daylight and block the entrances with soil. They forage at night and hide during the day. When threatened, they curl up into a ball-like shape. Their numbers in the wild are scarce, and in China, it is illegal to hunt and consume them. The main food of pangolins is termites, as well as ants, their larvae, bees, wasps, and other insect larvae. They have a large appetite, and the stomach of an adult pangolin can hold up to 500 grams of termites. According to scientific observations, as long as there is one adult pangolin in 250 mu of woodland, termites will not cause harm to the forest. Therefore, pangolins play a significant role in protecting forests, dams, maintaining ecological balance, and promoting human health.

Paoshanjia

Paoshanjia is the scale of the animal Cyprinidae, which can be captured throughout the year. After being killed, its scales are peeled off, boiled in hot water until they fall off, rinsed, and then dried. It is a type of scaled processed product. Currently, some markets use the scales of other animals such as Bauhinia to pass off as Paoshanjia, and some vendors may even adulterate it with magnesium sulfate to increase its weight. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious when purchasing.

Processing and Use in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, "pao" is a method of processing medicinal herbs, which basically involves frying, often with sand or salt. Paoshanjia refers to the scales of the pangolin that have been processed through this method. The scales of the pangolin have long been an important component of traditional Chinese medicine. Their medicinal properties include a salty taste, slightly cold nature, and their affinity with the liver and stomach meridians. The scales of the pangolin are classified into different types such as Shan Jia Pian, Zhi Shan Jia, and Paoshanjia, each with its specific medicinal effects. They are used to treat various conditions such as swelling, abscesses, blood stasis, menstrual disorders, lactation difficulties, and pain relief.

Please note that pangolin is a protected species, and it is illegal to hunt, consume, or trade its parts. Therefore, it is important to be informed and responsible when dealing with these animals and their products.