Ju Ye
Citrus reticulata Blanco
☯ TCM Properties
Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi; Transforms Phlegm and Dissipates Nodules; Resolves Toxicity and Reduces Swelling
Botanical Description
Citrus reticulata, the mandarin orange, is a small evergreen tree or large shrub in the Rutaceae growing 3-8 m tall with slender, often slightly thorny branches forming a rounded crown. The alternate leaves are lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate, 4-8 cm long, with a slightly winged petiole much narrower than that of the sweet orange, glossy dark green above, paler beneath, and dotted with translucent oil glands that release a fragrant citrus aroma when crushed. Solitary or small clusters of white, fragrant five-petalled flowers are borne in leaf axils. The fruit is a flattened-globose hesperidium 4-8 cm across with a loose, easily peeled, bright orange rind and sweet segmented pulp. The dried mature leaves, collected at any time of year, are Ju Ye.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ju Ye (tangerine leaf) is a neutral, bitter herb used in Chinese medicine to move Liver Qi and disperse accumulations in the Liver channel. Its primary indications are painful swellings of the breast and chest from Liver Qi stagnation — including mastitis, rib-side pain, and hypochondriac distension. It is gentler in action than other Liver-Qi-moving herbs and particularly well suited for addressing the painful nodules and distension of the chest that accompany emotional tension and Liver stagnation patterns.
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.