What are the benefits and effects of Citrus aurantium (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus)?
Fructus Aurantii, also known as Zhike, is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the dried immature fruits of the Rutaceae plant species Citrus aurantium and its cultivated varieties, or Citrus sinensis. Fructus Aurantii has various therapeutic effects, including regulating qi and relieving abdominal fullness, promoting digestion and eliminating food stagnation, strengthening the spleen and harmonizing the stomach, arresting diarrhea and consolidating the intestines, and lowering rebellious qi to stop vomiting. If excessive intake leads to adverse reactions, medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Regulating Qi and Relieving Abdominal Fullness
Fructus Aurantii contains abundant volatile oil components such as limonene and linalool. These substances can stimulate the digestive tract and enhance gastrointestinal motility, thereby achieving the effect of regulating qi and relieving abdominal distension.
2. Promoting Digestion and Eliminating Food Stagnation
Alkaloid components in Fructus Aurantii, such as synephrine and N-methyltyramine, can promote gastric juice secretion and accelerate the digestion and absorption of food.
3. Strengthening the Spleen and Harmonizing the Stomach
Through its unique medicinal properties, Fructus Aurantii can warm and tonify the spleen and stomach. When used appropriately, it enhances spleen and stomach function and improves the body’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients.
4. Arresting Diarrhea and Consolidating the Intestines
Tannins present in Fructus Aurantii have an astringent effect that reduces intestinal secretions. Additionally, they strengthen intestinal resistance, prevent pathogen invasion, and help maintain intestinal health.
5. Lowering Rebellious Qi and Alleviating Vomiting
The active ingredients in Fructus Aurantii can regulate gastrointestinal motility, helping to relieve symptoms such as nausea and vomiting caused by upward rebellion of stomach qi.
During the use of Fructus Aurantii, it is advisable to avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as hot pot, barbecue, and coffee, which may irritate the stomach and adversely affect health.