Bai Zi Ren (Semem Platycladi) is the seed of Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco of family Cupressaceae. It is mainly produced in Hunan, Hebei and Shandong. It is collected in autumn when the seeds are ripe and dried in the shade after removal of its external husk. The seeds are often broken or crushed before use.

Category: Shen (Spirit) Calming / Heart Nourishing.

Common Name: Biota Seed; Arborvitae Seed.

Channels Entered: Heart, Kidney and Large Intestine.

Properties and Functions: Bai Zi Ren is sweet in flavour and neutral in nature. It functions to calm the Shen, nourish the Heart and moisten the intestines to help open the bowels.

Indications: Clinical indications for use include irritability, insomnia, forgetfulness, palpitations with anxiety and night terrors (nightmares) in children, constipation and post-natal Yin or Blood deficiency.

Dosage: 3 – 9g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: It should be used with caution in cases of diarrhoea or loose stool and patients presenting with Phlegm disorders.