Jiao Mu
Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. or Zanthoxylum schinifolium Sieb. et Zucc.
โฏ TCM Properties
Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema; Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention; Drains Water and Reduces Edema
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Zanthoxylum bungeanum (Chinese prickly ash, Sichuan pepper) is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Rutaceae family, growing 3-7 m tall, with stems and branches bearing stout, broad-based prickles. The leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, 8-15 cm long, with 5-11 ovate to elliptic-lanceolate, finely crenate leaflets that are aromatic when crushed and dotted with translucent oil glands. The small unisexual flowers are yellowish-green and borne in dense terminal panicles. The fruit is a reddish-brown, rugose, glandular follicle 4-5 mm wide that dehisces along a single suture to expose one shiny, hard, blue-black to jet-black seed; Jiao Mu refers specifically to this dried mature seed, distinct from the aromatic pericarp (Hua Jiao) used as a culinary spice (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Jiao Mu (Sichuan pepper seed) is cold in nature, in distinct contrast to the warm, numbing husk from the same plant. Its principal action is promoting urination and draining excess water from the body, making it useful for conditions of fluid retention, edema, and urinary difficulty caused by water accumulation. Classical formulas used it specifically for abdominal fluid retention and breathlessness accompanying pleural effusion.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
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.