Hwangchil Story

Hwangchil’s binominal name is Dendropanax morbiferus which means a cure for all kinds of diseases. Hwangchil, evergreen broad-leaved tree, is a Korean unique species and grows wild in south coastal areas and Jeju Island.

In winter, the evergreen tree with large leaves reaches 15 meters tall. White flowers bloom in June. Bundles of 30-40 oval shaped fruits turn black in black. Leaves are alternate. At first, they are divided into 2-5 and as getting old, they turn into oblong shape. The bark is smooth and the young twig is shiny green.
The sap, harvested from Hwangchil bark, is brilliant gold. It also contains benzoin which is known for its excellent medicinal effect. In the past, Hwangchil was used as natural golden pigment. Results of scientific research, based on historical records of its medicinal effects, have been reported recently. As its binomial name means “cure-all”, Hwangchil has a potential as a new health supplement.

Japanese Hwangchil is known for its landscaping or decorative use. It does not produce golden sap.
Chinese Hwangchil is considered to have been extinct during 1208-1224.

Hwangchil tree is scientifically known as Dendropanax Morbifera Nakai, which means ‘ginseng tree’.
Hwangchil grows only in Korea, specifically in subtropical forest in Haenam and Wando area. Among various unique subtropical trees in Korea, Hwangchil is the most specific.

The sap is collected from the cuts on the bark. Because of its distinctive gold color and scarcity, it has been treated with value.
The golden pigment from Hwangchil was already exported to China in Three-Kingdom Period of Korea. Historical records of quality Hwangchil pigment is found in “Samguksagi” (Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms), “Haedongyeoksa”, and “Imwonsimnyukji”.

In addition to its calming scent and unique quality pigment, Hwangchil absorbs electromagnetic wave. When Hwangchil is processed to paint, the sheer golden color stays well on both wood and metal. The paint resists heat and moisture. Hwangchil can also be processed to dye. This golden natural dye has unique scent that repels insects. There is great potential for Hwangchil to be developed into various commercial products.

Hwangchil liquor and beverages, Hwangchil benzoin fragrance, new ingredient for herb medicine, electromagnetic absorbing products and so on. Hwangchil can be processed and applied to products of various fields. With appreciation for this valuable asset from our ancestors, we need to continue the study on Hwangchil.