What surface color and finish indicate Gou Teng good quality?

• A. Dull gray surface
• B. Bright pink surface
• C. Greenish surface with matte finish
• D. Purplish-brown or reddish-brown and glossy

Answer: (D)

Quality for Gou Teng is shown by surface color and finish because these signs reflect proper drying, storage, and condition of the herb. The best quality appears as a purplish-brown or reddish-brown color with a glossy, smooth surface. That glossy finish indicates the material was dried well and retained its integrity, while the dark brown to reddish-brown hue is typical of mature stems with low moisture content. A dull gray surface points to aging or poor drying; greenish with a matte finish suggests improper curing or freshness issues; a bright pink tone is not a normal characteristic and can indicate adulteration or contamination. So the combination of purplish- to reddish-brown color and a glossy surface signals good quality.