Herb Herbs that regulate Qi

Ju He

Bitter orange seeds | 橘核

Citrus aurantium

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Bitter

Organ Affinity

Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

Dried ripe seeds

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Ju He

Traditional Actions

Regulates the flow of the Qi.
Disperses nodules and relieves pain.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ju He belongs to the 'Herbs that regulate Qi' category. Herbs in this category typically treat a TCM condition called 'Qi Stagnation'. Concretely it means that Qi is blocked in the body's Organs and Meridians, most typically the Stomach, Liver, and to a lesser extent, the Lungs. In modern medicine terms, Qi Stagnation often translates into psychological consequences such as depression, irritability or mood swings. It's also frequently associated with conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopausal symptoms, the development of breast swellings as well as various digestive disorders.

 

Furthermore Ju He is Neutral in nature. This means that Ju He typically doesn't affect the balance in your body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Eating too many "Hot" (Yang) ingredients can lead to an imbalance whereby one has a Yang Excess. The inverse is true as well: too many "Cold" (Yin) ingredients can lead to a Yin Excess. The Neutral nature of Ju He means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Ju He also tastes Bitter. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Bitter ingredients like Ju He tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Ju He is thought to target the Kidney and the Liver. According to TCM, the Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. The Liver on the other hand is often referred as the body's "general" because it is in charge of regulating the movements of Qi and the Body Fluids. It also takes a leading role in balancing our emotions.

Common Applications

Mastitis Clogged milk ducts Hernial pain Testicular pain Carbuncles Abcesses

Research Studies

Scientific research and clinical studies on Ju He

Limonin isolated from the seeds of bittersweet orange (Citrus aurantium) were shown on rats to have a positive effect on the treatment of acute hepatic inflammation via the attenuation of inflammation and the reduction of oxidative stress.1

Sources:

1. Mahmoud, M.F., Hamdan, D.I., Wink, M. et al. (2014). Hepatoprotective effect of limonin, a natural limonoid from the seed of Citrus aurantium var. bigaradia, on D-galactosamine-induced liver injury in rats. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol, 387: 251. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00210-013-0937-1

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Ju He

Traditional Preparation

Remove impurities, wash, soak in water and dry. Crush before use.

Recommended Dosage

Note: The following information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice.

3 -9 grams

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Ju He

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb or supplement.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many herbs, Ju He may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.

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