Single Herb Glossary
Zhǐ Shí 枳實
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| Pharmaceutical name | Aurantii Fructus immaturus unripe bitter orange, chih-shih |
| Category | Regulate Qi |
| Key Properties | Promotes the flow of Qi Unblocks plugs |
| Properties | Bitter, Acrid Sl. Cold |
| Tropism | LI, SP, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Breaks up Stagnant Qi and Reduces Accumulation 2) Transforms Phlegm and Expels Focal Distention |
| Dosages | 3-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution during Pregnancy; should not be used as a single herb remedy with SP & ST Def |
| 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, tryptamine, tyramine, naringin, rhoifolin, tengeretin, and lonicerin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cardiovascular: oral administration of decoction in dogs and rabbits stimulates heart to increase contractility, blood pressure, and cardiac output; intravenous injection of solution 1.5 g/kg is similar to 0.1 mg/kg of epinephrine in its effect to raise blood pressure; however, has a prolonged influence on raising blood pressure and does not affect heart rate or respiration • Circulatory: intravenous injection decreases peripheral vascular resistance and enhances microcirculation to heart, brain and kidneys; studies in dogs have demonstrated increase of 82.6 +I- 20.56 ml/100g of blood to brain, and 64.5 +I- 9.4 ml/100g of blood to kidneys • Diuretic: intravenous injection demonstrated marked diuretic effect in dogs • Gastrointestinal: oral administration of decoction in dogs stimulates smooth muscle and increases intestinal peristalsis • Effects on the uterus: oral administration of decoction has marked stimulating effect on uterus of rabbits, but has inhibitory effect in rats |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Diuretics: concurrent use with diuretic drugs may lead to increased elimination of water and/or electrolytes |
| 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.