Medicinals

bǎi zǐ rén / 柏子仁 / 柏子仁 / arborvitae seed;

Latin pharmacognostic name: Platycladi Semen

Alternate English names: Oriental arborviatae seed

Alternate Chinese names:

Origin: Plant

Use: medicinal

Category: Spirit-quieting agents / Heart-nourishing spirit-quieting agents

Properties: Sweet; balanced.

Channel entry: heart, kidney, and large intestine channels.

Indications:

  • Nourishes the heart and quiets the spirit: Insomnia, fright palpitations, and fearful throbbing, when these are due to blood vacuity.
  • Moistens the intestines and frees the stool: Constipation due to intestinal dryness. Bǎi zǐ rén shuāng (柏子仁霜 Platycladi Semen Pulveratum, arborvitae seed frost), is bǎi zǐ rén that has been pulverized, wrapped in paper, heated, and pressed so that the paper absorbs the oils. Research has shown that it has a stronger tranquilizing and sleep-inducing effect than raw bǎi zǐ rén.

Dosage & Method:

Oral: 3–9g in decoctions; or use in pills and powders. Topical: Apply the oil extracted by grinding after stir-frying.

Warning:

Use bǎi zǐ rén with care in patients with sloppy stool or copious phlegm.

Quality:

Plump yellowish-white seeds without remains of the seed coat are best. They should have a high oil content but should not exude oil.

Product Area:

Shāndōng, Húnán.

Help us to improve our content
You found an error?

Send us a feedback