Single Herb Glossary
Zhǐ Ké (Zhǐ Qiào) 枳殼
| Pharmaceutical name | Aurantii Fructus Bitter orange |
| Category | Regulate Qi |
| Key Properties | Promotes the flow of Qi Unblocks plugs |
| Properties | Bitter, Acrid Slightly Cold |
| Tropism | SP, ST, LI |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Promotes the Flow of Qi (all Jiaos) |
| Dosages | 3-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution during pregnancy, Sp and St Deficiency |
| Contraindications (Western) | Caution with gastric or duodenal ulcers, acidity may irritate gastrointestinal tract |
| Chemical Composition | Synephrine, N-methyltyramine, hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, desmethyl nobiletin, quinoline, narcotine, noradrenaline, quinoline, narcotine, tryptamine, tyramine, naringin, rhoifolin, and lonicerin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cardiovascular: intravenous injection showed marked ability to increase blood pressure, lower the oxygen requirement of cardiac muscle, and promote diuresis • Respiratory: synephrine demonstrated moderate effect to relax and dilate airways • Antiplatelet: antiplatelet action, inhibits thrombus formation in rats • Antineoplastic: nobiletin has demonstrated antineoplastic action in nose and throat cancer with ED50 of 3 to 28 µg/ml |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: herb has antiplatelet action, should be used with caution in patients who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet med ications; may potentiate effect of drugs such as warfarin |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.