Zhi Ke
Citrus aurantium L.
โฏ TCM Properties
Regulates Qi and Broadens the Middle Burner; Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation; Transforms Phlegm and Dissipates Nodules; Lifts Sunken Qi
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Citrus aurantium, the bitter or Seville orange, is an evergreen tree in the Rutaceae family, originally native to Southeast Asia and now widely cultivated in subtropical regions including the Mediterranean and southern China. It typically grows 4-10 meters tall with a rounded crown, smooth grey-green bark, and sharp axillary spines on younger branches. The alternate leaves are ovate to elliptic, 7-10 cm long, dark glossy green, with finely crenate margins and broadly winged petioles. Fragrant white flowers, 2-3 cm across with five petals, are borne singly or in small clusters; they are intensely aromatic. The fruit is a globose hesperidium, 7-8 cm across, with a thick, rough, orange-red rind and acidic, bitter pulp. In TCM, the nearly ripe or just-ripe fruit, dried and sliced (Zhi Ke), is used as a bitter, acrid, slightly cold herb that regulates qi, eases the chest, and disperses focal distention.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zhi Ke (bitter orange fruit) is the ripe form of the same fruit that yields Zhi Shi. Compared to Zhi Shi, its action is gentler and more oriented toward moving Qi in the chest and upper digestive tract, making it better suited for mild to moderate Qi stagnation with bloating, belching, and chest discomfort. It is a common ingredient in formulas addressing post-meal fullness and tension in the epigastrium without the harsh force of Zhi Shi.
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.