About
The character 藿 is a phono-semantic compound: the grass radical 艹 (top) marks its botanical meaning, while 霍 (huò) at the bottom gives the sound. In its earliest usage, it named the leaves of pulse plants, especially bean leaves, which were common food for people and livestock in farming communities. Over time, its meaning expanded to cover specific aromatic and medicinal herbs, notably bishopwort (Agastache rugosa).
Etymology Hide
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.