The Efficacy and Functions of Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Immature Bitter Orange Fruit)
Disease description:
I have recently been experiencing bloating and stomach pain. When the pain occurs, I feel uncomfortable all over and want to lie down. I heard that using Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Zhishi) may help relieve the discomfort. I would like to ask the doctor about the functions and effects of Fructus Aurantii Immaturus.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Zhi Shi is a traditional Chinese medicine. It has a bitter, pungent, and sour taste, is slightly cold in nature, and is associated with the spleen and stomach meridians. It functions to break up Qi stagnation, aid digestion, resolve phlegm, and alleviate distension and痞 (stagnation). Its therapeutic effects include:
1. Eliminating food accumulation: Zhishi helps break down Qi and resolve food stagnation, effectively treating symptoms such as abdominal distension, indigestion, and discomfort caused by excessive eating or weakened spleen and stomach function.
2. Treating dysentery and constipation: Zhishi can promote bowel function and effectively alleviate symptoms such as damp-heat dysentery, constipation due to heat accumulation, and difficulty in defecation.
3. Resolving phlegm and dispersing nodules: Zhishi helps resolve phlegm and dissipate nodules, making it suitable for symptoms such as chest tightness and phlegm accumulation caused by phlegm obstructing the chest or abdomen.
4. Treating organ prolapse: Zhishi also has the effect of uplifting Qi, and can be used to treat conditions such as gastric ptosis, uterine prolapse, and rectal prolapse.
Zhi Shi has a dual effect on gastrointestinal motility and uterine smooth muscle (both inhibitory and excitatory effects), and also possesses various other pharmacological effects, including strengthening cardiac function, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-allergic actions. Due to its bitter and cold nature, Zhishi strongly eliminates accumulation and breaks up Qi. It should be used cautiously in individuals with weak spleen and stomach function or general debility, and should be avoided during pregnancy. Consultation with a physician is recommended before use.
