Can softshell turtle shell (Biejia) treat liver fibrosis?
Nov 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
TCM believes that softshell turtle shell (Biejia) has the effects of nourishing yin, subduing hyperactive yang, softening hardness, and dissipating nodules. Liver fibrosis is often associated with deficiency of liver yin and stagnation of blood stasis. For patients presenting symptoms of yin deficiency and blood stasis such as dry mouth and throat, dizziness, tinnitus, dull pain in the liver region, and a dark complexion, Biejia can be combined with other herbs to help nourish liver yin, resolve blood stasis, and assist in slowing the progression of fibrosis.
Generally, softshell turtle shell (Biejia) can be used as an auxiliary herbal treatment for liver fibrosis, particularly suitable when the pattern is identified as yin deficiency with blood stasis. However, it is ineffective when used alone or if the patient’s pattern does not match this diagnosis. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), softshell turtle shell is believed to nourish yin, subdue yang, soften hardness, and resolve nodules. Liver fibrosis is often associated with liver yin deficiency and blood stasis. For patients presenting symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, dizziness, tinnitus, dull pain in the liver region, and a dark complexion—indicative of yin deficiency and blood stasis—Biejia may be combined with other herbs to nourish liver yin and resolve blood stasis, thereby helping to slow the progression of fibrosis.
If liver fibrosis is due to patterns such as internal retention of damp-heat or yang deficiency with cold stagnation, using Biejia may worsen symptoms and fail to achieve therapeutic effects. Moreover, Biejia has a rich and greasy nature, making it difficult to address underlying causes when used alone. Given the complexity of liver fibrosis, relying solely on a single herb cannot reverse the pathological changes. Comprehensive treatment addressing the root cause and overall regulation is necessary; blind use may delay proper management.
Biejia should only be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner who can accurately diagnose the pattern and formulate appropriate herbal combinations. It should not be self-administered. Caution is advised for individuals with spleen-stomach weakness or poor digestion, as its greasy nature may impair digestion. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential during treatment to observe disease progression.
