He Huan Pi
Albizia julibrissin
Synonyms: Feuilleea julibrissin, Mimosa julibrissin, Sericandra julibrissin, Acacia julibrissin
โฏ TCM Properties
Calms the Spirit and relieves constraint; Invigorates and harmonizes the Blood, stops pain and reconnects sinews and bones; Regulates Qi, alleviates pain, dissipates swellings and reduces abscesses
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Albizia julibrissin is a fast-growing deciduous tree reaching 5-16 m tall with a broad, spreading, flat-topped crown. Bark is smooth and grayish-brown. Leaves are bipinnately compound, 20-45 cm long, with 12-25 pairs of pinnae each bearing 20-30 pairs of small leaflets; the leaves fold up at night. The distinctive flowers have numerous long, silky, pink stamens in a pompom-like head 3-4 cm across, borne in clusters. Bark (He Huan Pi) and flowers (He Huan Hua) are both used in TCM.
Dry hillsides, open woodlands, roadsides, and rocky slopes; native from Iran to China, widely planted as an ornamental tree in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide.
Albizia julibrissin is widely planted as an ornamental tree and naturalized in many regions. While native to Asia, it is considered invasive in parts of North America and Europe. No conservation concerns.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
He Huan Pi (albizzia bark, silk tree bark) is a neutral, sweet herb used in Chinese medicine to calm the Shen, relieve emotional depression, and invigorate Blood. It is specifically indicated for emotional conditions from Liver Qi stagnation โ including sadness, grief, depression, irritability, insomnia, and difficulty sleeping due to emotional suffering. Its Blood-activating properties extend to traumatic injuries and swellings. Its gentle emotional calming and Blood-moving actions make it a balanced herb for treating the combined pattern of emotional stagnation and Blood obstruction.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.