Bencao Gangmu Reference Library
栀子 / 黄栀子 / 山栀 — Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis
Pinyin: Zhīzǐ / Huángzhīzǐ · Malay: Bunga Cina / Kaca Piring · Family: Rubiaceae (茜草科)
Energetics
Cold (寒)
Flavor
Bitter (苦)
Meridians
Heart (心), Lung (肺), Stomach (胃), Liver (肝), Triple Burner (三焦)
Traditional Edict
Purges toxic fire and eliminates vexation, clears heat and drains dampness to relieve jaundice, cools blood to stop bleeding, resolves swelling and contusions. For high fever with delirious irritability, jaundice, dark urine, hematemesis, and external sprains.
Cautions & Contraindications
- Fresh fruits must be steamed/scalded before drying to deactivate hydrolytic enzymes. Contraindicated in Spleen-Stomach deficiency cold with chronic diarrhea.
Clinical Applications
- Acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, icteric viral hepatitis, traumatic soft-tissue hematomas, febrile delirium, insomnia from heat-vexation, gastrointestinal ulcer bleeding, and diabetic retinopathy.
Quality Markers
Mechanism & Phytochemistry
1. Geniposide is metabolized into genipin by gut bacteria, inhibiting Uncoupling Protein-2 (UCP2), stimulating insulin secretion, suppressing TNF-a, and activating BSEP/MRP2 for bile export. 2. Crocins (water-soluble carotenoids) scavenge free radicals and protect retinal microvasculature. 3. Topical powder downregulates COX-2/PGE2, accelerating hematoma reabsorption.
Preparation & Dosage
Raw crushed fruit for fire purging and jaundice: 6-10 g daily. Charred fruit (Jiao Zhizi) for internal bleeding: 6-10 g. Topical poultice: Ground raw powder mixed with egg white/alcohol over sprains.
Appended Prescriptions
- 1. Zhi Zi Chi Tang (栀子豉汤) with fermented soybean (Dan Dou Chi) for post-febrile insomnia and chest vexation. 2. Topical Bone & Tendon Trauma Paste with Rheum officinale (Da Huang) and Egg White.
Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only