Li Zhi He
Litchi chinensis Sonn.
☯ TCM Properties
Moves Qi and Dissipates Nodules; Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain; Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi; Warms the Middle Burner and Stops Pain
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Litchi chinensis is a subtropical evergreen tree in the Sapindaceae family, native to southern China and now cultivated widely across tropical and subtropical regions. The tree grows 10-20 meters tall with a dense, rounded canopy and smooth grey-brown bark. The alternate, pinnately compound leaves bear two to four pairs of glossy, leathery, lanceolate leaflets, each 5-15 cm long. Small, petalless, greenish-yellow flowers are borne in terminal panicles in spring. The fruit is a distinctive ovoid drupe, 3-4 cm long, with a rough red leathery skin enclosing fragrant, translucent white aril surrounding a single shiny brown seed. In TCM, the seed (Li Zhi He) is used as a warm, bitter, sweet herb to move qi, disperse cold, and relieve pain, particularly in the lower abdomen and testes.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Li Zhi He (lychee seed) is a warming, bitter-sweet herb whose primary action is on the Liver channel, where it moves stagnant Qi to relieve pain and swelling. It is most commonly applied to testicular or inguinal hernia pain, orchitis, and lower abdominal pain from Liver Qi stagnation or cold invasion. It is also used for menstrual pain and distension associated with gynecological Qi 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.