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What is the difference between Galla Chinensis (Wubeizi) and Schisandra chinensis (Wuweizi)?

Nov 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Galla Chinensis (五倍子) and Schisandrae Fructus (五味子) differ in their sources, appearance, chemical composition, property, taste and meridian tropism, as well as their functions and clinical indications. When using these two traditional Chinese herbs, appropriate selection should be made according to the specific medical condition and individual needs. It is recommended to use them under the guidance of a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to avoid confusion in medication and prevent adverse reactions.

Generally, there are differences between Galla Chinensis (Wubeizi) and Schisandrae Fructus (Wuweizi) in aspects such as their sources, appearance, chemical composition, taste and property, meridian tropism, therapeutic effects and clinical indications. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Source: Galla Chinensis is a gall formed on trees of the Anacardiaceae family, such as Rhus chinensis, Rhus potaninii, or Rhus javanica, mainly caused by the parasitism of the aphid Schlechtendalia chinensis. Schisandrae Fructus is the dried ripe fruit of Schisandra chinensis or Schisandra sphenanthera, plants of the Magnoliaceae family.

2. Appearance: Galla Chinensis can be divided into two types based on shape: Dubei (round-shaped galls) are long-round or spindle-shaped sac-like structures, while Jiaobei (horn-shaped galls) are rhombic in shape. Schisandrae Fructus is irregularly spherical or flattened spherical in appearance.

3. Chemical Composition: Galla Chinensis mainly contains tannins and related compounds, whereas Schisandrae Fructus mainly contains lignans, volatile oils, and other components.

4. Taste and Property & Meridian Tropism: Galla Chinensis has a sour and astringent taste, is cold in nature, and enters the Lung, Large Intestine, and Kidney meridians. Schisandrae Fructus has a sour and sweet taste, is warm in nature, and enters the Lung, Heart, and Kidney meridians.

5. Therapeutic Effects and Clinical Uses: Galla Chinensis functions to astringe the Lung and reduce fire,涩肠止泻 (astringe the intestines and stop diarrhea), consolidate essence and prevent seminal emission. Schisandrae Fructus functions to收敛固涩 (consolidate and astringe),益气生津 (benefit Qi and promote body fluid production), and补肾宁心 (tonify the kidneys and calm the mind).

Before using these two traditional Chinese medicines, appropriate selection should be made according to the specific condition and requirements. It is recommended to use them under the guidance of qualified TCM practitioners to avoid confusion and prevent adverse reactions.

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