20 Best Female Characters In The Apothecary Diaries, Ranked

Step into the captivating world of the historical imperial court with ‘The Apothecary Diaries,’ where intrigue, mystery, and power dynamics take center stage. The female characters in this tale bring a diverse range of perspectives and strengths, from high-ranking consorts to aspiring physicians, each adding layers of complexity to the story. Their roles, personalities, and impact on the series are truly remarkable, making them stand out in this rich narrative.

In this ranking, we delve into the top 20 female characters who leave a lasting impact on readers and contribute significantly to the world of “The Apothecary Diaries.

20 Haku-u, Koku-u, Seki-u

Ladies-In-Waiting

Haku-u, Koku-u, and Seki-u are three sisters who work as ladies-in-waiting at the Jade Pavilion in “The Apothecary Diaries.” Haku-u, being the oldest, stands out with a white ribbon, while Koku-u opts for black, and Seki-u adorns a red ribbon. These ribbons help distinguish them, even though they all share almond-shaped eyes and charcoal-drawn eyebrows. Haku-u’s protective nature towards Gyokuyou clearly shows her deep concern for her well-being. Koku-u, the middle sister, and Seki-u, the youngest, also play their part in maintaining the palace, but they display different levels of caution and insecurity. Together, they form a committed trio serving in Gyokuyou’s household, each bringing their own unique qualities and perspectives to their roles as ladies-in-waiting.

19 Kanan

Food Taster

Kanan who used to be a food taster for Lady Lishu, went through a significant change in “The Apothecary Diaries.” Her tall frame and long, wavy black hair are just as striking as the white attire she wears, representing her position as the Virtuous Consort’s lady-in-waiting. Initially part of the group that mistreated Lishu, Kanan had a change of heart after a crucial garden party. This realization prompted her to become Lishu’s most loyal supporter. Her nervous behavior, especially around Maomao, suggests a deeper layer to her character. Kanan’s transformation from a passive antagonist to a devoted ally demonstrates her development and the transformative impact of acknowledging one’s faults.

18 Shin

Head Lady-In-Waiting

Shin also known as Xing, is the top lady-in-waiting at the Crystal Pavilion in “The Apothecary Diaries.” She has a special role as both Lady Lihua’s servant and cousin, which puts her right in the middle of all the palace’s daily tasks, including cleaning and cooking. But what sets her apart is her family connection, which gives her a unique advantage in understanding the complexities of palace life. However, this close relationship also brings its own challenges, as it blurs the boundaries between her responsibilities and personal benefits in the imperial court.

17 Anshi

Current Empress Dowager

Anshi the Empress Dowager in “The Apothecary Diaries,” is a multi-faceted character. Despite her youthful appearance and elegance, she possesses a deep intellect and a strategic mindset. As the mother of the current Emperor and the Imperial Brother, her role holds great political importance. However, she chooses to remain aloof from political matters, understanding her role as a mere pawn in the larger political landscape. Anshi’s past, marred by a traumatic experience with the Former Emperor and the subsequent birth of her children, has molded her into a woman who treasures her granddaughter Lingli and has a special affection for Jinshi, even more than her own sons. Her life is a testament to resilience, intelligence, and inner strength as she navigates the complexities of the imperial court with poise and dignity.

16 Hongniang

Head Lady-In-Waiting

Hongniang the chief lady-in-waiting at the Jade Pavilion in “The Apothecary Diaries,” is a devoted servant in her late twenties. She has brown eyes and hair pulled back, giving her a youthful and slender look. She is often dressed in simple attire embellished with items from Lady Gyokuyou. Known for her excellent interpersonal skills and hard work, Hongniang efficiently oversees the palace’s cleaning and cooking. Despite her warm personality, she is strict with those who slack off and somewhat cynical when it comes to love. Her skills and loyalty have made her an essential part of Lady Gyokuyou’s team, ensuring the smooth operation of the Jade Pavilion with just four servants.

15 Yao

Assistant Physician

Yao a young court lady and aspiring physician in “The Apothecary Diaries,” is a character full of contradictions. Despite being only 15, she possesses a unique blend of innocence and determination, refusing to conform to her uncle’s wishes for an arranged marriage. Although her pride took a hit when Maomao surpassed her, her kind and compassionate side contrasts with her aloof exterior. After her father’s passing, she strives for freedom from Vice Minister Lu, her guardian, and gains support from the La clan as she pursues her goal of independence and her dream of becoming a court physician.

14 Yinghua

Lady-In-Waiting

Yinghua a devoted lady-in-waiting at the Jade Pavilion, embodies a youthful energy and unwavering commitment in “The Apothecary Diaries.” Her hair, a beautiful shade of purplish brown, and her purple eyes perfectly reflect her vibrant personality. Despite her young age, she is renowned for her hard work and the simple yet elegant attire bestowed upon her by Lady Gyokuyou. Yinghua’s friendly demeanor and candid moments showcase her genuine concern for her fellow comrades, while her loyalty to Lady Gyokuyou remains steadfast. Originally from the Western Province, as the daughter of an official, she has wholeheartedly embraced her role in the Inner Court, leaving a lasting impression throughout the palace.

13 Guiyuan

Lady-In-Waiting

Guiyuan serves as a lady-in-waiting in the Jade Pavilion, guided by Gyokuyou. She has beautiful brown eyes and medium brown hair, which she styles in a neat bun on top of her head. Guiyuan’s youthful and cooperative nature shines through her demeanor. Alongside her fellow ladies-in-waiting, she takes care of cleaning and cooking duties, ensuring the palace runs smoothly. Despite being younger and more inclined to follow others, Guiyuan’s commitment and ability to work as a team make her an indispensable member of the Jade Pavilion’s household.

12 Ailan

Lady-In-Waiting

Ailan is a lady-in-waiting in “The Apothecary Diaries” and she works in the Jade Pavilion under the watchful eye of Gyokuyou. She adds a touch of elegance to her duties with her captivating appearance, which includes deep blue eyes and a sophisticated updo with long black hair. The loose curls of her hair delicately frame her face, enhancing her charm. Ailan is a devoted servant who, along with Yinghua and the rest of the ladies-in-waiting, plays a vital role in keeping the palace running smoothly by sharing cleaning and cooking responsibilities.

11 Loulan

Second Former Pure Consort

Loulan the young Pure Consort of the Garnet Palace, is only 17 years old. She may seem aloof, but underneath that facade lies a truly free-spirited nature. With her long black hair, bright yellow eyes, and extravagant attire, she stands out in the court. Despite her mother’s influence and her father, Prime Minister Shishou’s political schemes, Loulan’s love for her family and the Shi Clan children is evident. Her passion for entomology and her talent for predicting locust swarms showcase her sharp intellect and deep connection to the natural world.

10 Suirei

Former Court Lady

Suirei previously known as Shisui, is a 19-year-old character in “The Apothecary Diaries.” She is an antagonist and supporting character in the story. Suirei is the first daughter of Shishou and the half-sister of Loulan, making her a part of the imperial family. She used to be a court lady in the Outer Court. Despite her natural beauty, she opts for heavy makeup and maintains a calm and aloof demeanor. Suirei is introverted with a strict personality, and she scolds Maomao for almost trespassing on military grounds. She is skilled in herbal medicine, having learned from her adoptive grandfather and tending to a medicinal garden in the Outer Court. Suirei has a tragic past involving abuse from her stepmother Shenmei and intense research on resurrection medicine.

09 Ayla, Aylin

Emissary of Shaoh

Ayla and Aylin stand out as the impressive ambassadors from the Country of Shaoh. Ayla, with her stunning golden hair and captivating blue eyes, exudes a fearless confidence and adds a touch of red to her ensemble, setting her apart from her cousin. Aylin, equally gorgeous and resembling Ayla, chooses to incorporate blue accents into her look and carries herself with a more careful and thoughtful demeanor. Together, they skillfully navigate the intricacies of their responsibilities, combining Ayla’s assertiveness with Aylin’s cautiousness, creating a perfect harmony as they proudly represent their homeland.

08 Fuyou

Emperor’s Middle Consort

Fuyou a princess hailing from a faraway kingdom, was chosen as the Emperor’s middle consort out of her undying love for her childhood sweetheart. Her remarkable intelligence and beauty, highlighted by her silky dark hair and pink eyes, are just as captivating as her mesmerizing dance performances, which are said to rival those of the renowned Princess of Verdigris House. Despite her reluctance to embrace her royal position, she skillfully managed to avoid the Emperor’s advances in order to stay loyal to her first love. Her graceful dances on the palace walls, a silent declaration of her unwavering love, led to her being affectionately called the “lunar lotus” in poetic circles.

07 Lishu

Former Virtuous Consort

Lishu the former Virtuous Consort of the Diamond Pavilion in “The Apothecary Diaries,” is a 14-year-old high consort who holds little sway in the inner court. Despite her noble lineage and wealth, her life has been filled with hardships, as she was manipulated by her family for political gain. With deep purple eyes and flowing brown locks, she adorns herself in youthful, frilly attire that complements her innocence. Unfortunately, Lishu is often mistreated by her maids, oblivious to their malicious intentions. While she is admired for her pure heart, she grapples with her lack of practicality and the intricacies of courtly life.

06 Joka, Meimei, Pairin

Three Princesses

Joka, Meimei, and Pairin make up the famous Three Princesses of Verdigris House, each showcasing their own unique talents and personalities. Joka, the youngest, is known for her distant attitude and poetic abilities, but she also has a soft spot for her adopted sister Maomao. Meimei, the second oldest, is a mix of grace and intelligence, excelling in games like Go and Shogi, while also displaying a caring side, albeit with a hint of manipulation at times. Pairin, the eldest, is distinguished by her stunning beauty and exceptional dancing skills, often being compared to a succubus-like figure who dreams of becoming a mother. Together, they create an enchanting trio, each playing a significant role in Maomao’s upbringing and the lively atmosphere of the Verdigris House.

05 Fengxian

High-Ranking Courtesan

Fengxian Maomao’s biological mother, who is in her mid-40s, has a fascinating background that is not fully explored in the available sources. She used to be a high-ranking courtesan at Verdigris House and was known for her incredible beauty. She would always be dressed in exquisite clothes, adorned with intricate jewelry, and wore makeup that enhanced her features. Unlike other courtesans who relied on their charm, Fengxian remained calm and expressionless. She had a unique talent for strategic board games, excelling at Xiang Qi and Go, often defeating skilled opponents. Even when her mind was affected by late-stage syphilis, her beautiful singing voice remained intact. Being born to the Madam while she worked as a courtesan, Fengxian followed in her mother’s footsteps, captivating wealthy men with her intelligence and artistic abilities. Her close bond with lower-ranked workers, especially Meimei, added complexity to her character.

04 Ah-Duo

Pure Consort

Ah-Duo the former Pure Consort of the Garnet Palace, has a striking androgynous look with deep black eyes and long black hair pulled back. Despite her feminine title, she carries herself with the charm of a handsome young man. Ah-Duo’s tomboyish nature makes her stand out; she sees the Emperor more as a friend than a romantic partner. Their strong connection, formed in childhood, led to a playful promise: she would be his only wife, even dreaming of becoming Empress Dowager. However, tragedy struck when she lost her son during childbirth. To save her life, her womb was removed, leaving her unable to bear children and weakening her influence. Prime Minister Shishou replaced her with his daughter Loulan, pushing Ah-Duo out of her Pure Consort role. Her magnetic personality captures hearts, and her devoted maids, especially Fengming, would do anything for her. While she is intelligent, navigating her emotions proves to be a challenge.

03 Lihua

High Consorts

Lihua also known as the Wise Consort, is a remarkable woman at the age of 23. She holds a special place among the Emperor’s High Consorts in the Inner Palace of the Imperial Palace of the Country of Li. With her flowing dark-blue hair and captivating ruby-red eyes, she radiates a sense of mature beauty. Her curvaceous figure has made her the Emperor’s favorite in terms of physique. Despite her serious demeanor, Lihua is a humble and caring individual towards her subordinates. Her emotional depth and strong attachment, particularly after the loss of her son, distinguish her from the practical Gyokuyou. As the mother of the second prince, she possesses significant influence within the court, although her status falls short of being an Empress due to her family’s distant relation to the Emperor.

02 Gyokuyou

Precious Consort

Gyokuyou the Precious Consort, is only 19 years old. She is a high-ranking and exotic beauty in the Imperial Harem, with her striking long red hair and jade-green eyes. Despite not having the same curves as her competitors, her wise, cautious, and politically savvy nature quickly wins over the Emperor, leading to her becoming the Empress. As a devoted mother, she prioritizes her children, especially First Princess Lingli. Gyokuyou’s knowledge, wealth, and influence play a crucial role in court affairs, and she maintains strong ties with her family in the Western Province.

01 Maomao

Main Protagonist

Maomao the sharp and perceptive apothecary, skillfully maneuvers through the dangerous political waters of the palace in The Apothecary Diaries. Her keen analytical abilities and cat-like eyes are invaluable in her role as an attendant and poison tester. Despite her young age of 17, Maomao’s practical nature and extensive knowledge of herbs and illnesses enable her to unravel enigmatic issues within the inner court. Her petite stature is contrasted by her dark green hair, blue eyes, and freckled face, but the scars on her left forearm, remnants of testing poisons and remedies, showcase her unwavering commitment. Maomao’s sensible approach helps her avoid unnecessary conflicts, even as she becomes entangled in the intrigues of the royal court. Guided by Luomen’s wisdom, she excels in herbal medicine, crafting unique treatments she bravely experiments on herself. Her upbringing in the red light district hones her perceptiveness, making her adept at both manipulation and deduction.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our examination of the top 20 female characters in “The Apothecary Diaries,” it’s evident that each character is carefully developed with her own unique strengths, vulnerabilities, and captivating charm. From the clever and mysterious Maomao to the dignified and intricate Empress Dowager Anshi, these women are more than just background players; they play a crucial role in the unfolding drama of the imperial court. Their tales are intertwined with themes of love, ambition, loyalty, and survival, offering a rich portrayal of life behind the palace walls. This list not only honors these characters but also pays tribute to the series’ ability to construct a world where female characters are not only present but profoundly impactful. Their legacies extend far beyond the story, leaving a lasting impression on readers with their resilience and complexity.