Zhi Shi (Furctus Aurantii Immaturus) is from the immature fruit of Citrus aurantium L., or Citrus wilsonii Tank ka, family Rutacea. The medicinal material is mainly collected during May and June. It is then sun dried, and used in either its crude form or stir-baked with bran.
Category: Digestive/Relieve food stagnation and phlegn resolving.
Common Name: Unripe Bitter Orange.
Channels Entered: Large Intestine, Spleen and Stomach.
Properties and Functions: It is bitter and pungent in flavour, and slightly cold in nature. Its main functions are:
- Breaking up stagnant Qi and reducing accumulation.
- Transforming phlegm and expelling focal distention.
- Resolving food stagnation.
Indications: It is clinically indicated for the following:
- Indigestion with constipation due to Heat.
- Epigastric or abdominal pain and distention.
- Indigestion with focal distention and gas.
- Turbid phlegm obstructing Qi with fullness in the chest and epigastrum.
Dosage: 3 – 9g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: Zhi Shi should be used with caution during pregnancy and in cases with Spleen and Stomach deficiency.