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Alternate English names: Oriental arborviatae seed

Kingdom: Plant

Origin in PRC Pharmacopoeia: Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco. [= Biota orientalis (L.) Endl.; Thuja orientalis L.]. (PRC Pharmacopoeia)

Origin in unofficial sources: Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco* [= Biota orientalis (L.) Endl.; Thuja orientalis L.]; Cupressus torulosa D. Don; Sabina recurva (Buch.-Ham.) Antoine [= Juniperus recurva Buch.-Ham.) Antoine]

Use: Medicinal

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

Properties: Sweet; balanced.

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

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

Warnings: 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.

Production area: Shāndōng, Húnán.

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