[Recognize uncalia ganbir]

The Latin name for Jicha, which is used in bethel chewing, is Uncaria gambir. The plant belongs to the Rubiaceae family, and although its Chinese name is Jicha-Kou-tou, it is more commonly called Katsu-Jicha or Ho-Jicha. While Jicha is called Asen-yaku in Japan, the latter name dates back only to the 15th century. As it can be estimated that, in China, the use of Jicha in bethel chewing was known to occur around 200 AD, the author would like to recommend that the name Jicha be used for Asen-yaku in Chinese medical terminology, regardless of the origin of the drug Asen-yaku in Japan. This recommendation may be fortified as Prof. Sho Bai-kon, who co-edited Chugoku Honzo Zuroku (Atlas of Chinese Medicinal Herbs), a joint effort between Japan and China, has made clear that Jicha is indeed Acacia catechu.