He Zi (Terminalia chebula): A Natural Remedy for Respiratory, Digestive, and Throat Health in Traditional Chinese Medicine
He Zi (Terminalia chebula fruit), known as Chebulic Myrobalan, is a widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its potent therapeutic properties. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, especially related to the respiratory and digestive systems. Below is a comprehensive overview of He Zi, including its mechanism, how to use it, and research supporting its benefits.
Mechanism Of He Zi In TCM
In TCM, He Zi is classified as an herb that stabilizes and binds, primarily targeting the Lung and Large Intestine meridians. It is known for its astringent nature and is commonly used to:
- Restrain the leakage of Lung qi: He Zi is used to treat chronic cough and wheezing by astringing the Lung and preventing the loss of vital energy.
- Improve bowel function: It is also used to treat chronic diarrhea and dysentery due to its ability to stabilize the intestines and prevent excessive discharge.
- Soothe the throat: He Zi is beneficial for conditions like chronic sore throat, voice loss, or hoarseness.
How to Use He Zi (Terminalia chebula fruit)
He Zi can be prepared and used in various forms depending on the condition being treated. Common preparations include:
- Decoction: The fruit is commonly boiled to extract its active constituents. To prepare, use 6-10 grams of He Zi and decoct with water for consumption.
- Powdered Form: He Zi can be ground into powder and used in smaller doses (usually around 1-3 grams).
- Topical Use: For throat issues, it can be used in powdered form mixed with honey and applied to the throat.
Key Applications in TCM
- Respiratory issues: He Zi is often used for treating conditions like chronic cough and asthma. It helps suppress coughing and reduces wheezing by tonifying Lung qi.
- Digestive disorders: Its astringent properties are effective in treating chronic diarrhea and dysentery, especially when related to weakness in the digestive system.
- Throat and voice problems: For sore throats, chronic voice loss, and hoarseness, it is frequently used in formulas or alone to provide relief.
Modern Research on He Zi (Terminalia chebula)
Modern research has validated some of the traditional uses of He Zi. Studies have identified several active compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties:
- Antioxidant activity: Terminalia chebula is rich in tannins and flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit strong antioxidant properties, potentially protecting cells from oxidative damage.
- Antibacterial and antiviral properties: Research has demonstrated He Zi’s ability to inhibit various bacterial and viral pathogens, which may explain its effectiveness in treating respiratory and digestive infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies show that Terminalia chebula has anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful in reducing inflammation in the lungs, digestive tract, and other areas.
- Gastroprotective properties: Research has also indicated that He Zi can help protect the stomach lining and prevent ulcers, which supports its use in digestive disorders.
- Immune modulation: Certain compounds in Terminalia chebula may modulate the immune system, helping the body respond more effectively to infections and stressors.
Conclusion
He Zi (Terminalia chebula) plays a vital role in TCM for its ability to treat respiratory, digestive, and throat issues. It is highly valued for its astringent and stabilizing properties, and modern research supports many of its traditional uses. When using He Zi, it’s essential to follow traditional dosage guidelines and consult a TCM practitioner to ensure proper use.
Product Description
Common Name: Terminalia
Botanical Name: Terminalia Chebula Fruit
Channels: Lung, Stomach, Large Intestine
Other Names: Fructus Terminaliae Chebulae
Pin Yin Name: He Zi
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 500 Grams ( 1.1 pounds)
Form: Powder - Fine powder 80 to 100 mesh size (similar to the consistency of baking flour)
Dosage: Follow doctors instructions on how to use this herb.
Origin: China
Brand: Plum Flower, species - authenticated herbs
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar.
Additional Information on He Zi
- Benefits Digestion
- Supports normal bowel movements
- Aids the respiratory system
Product Properties: Bitter, sour, astringent, neutral
Naturally Occurring Chemical Components: chebulinic acid, gallic acid, glutamic acid, palmitic acid, selenium, potassium, manganese, iron, copper, vitamin C, terminoic acid, chebupentol, shikimic acid, dehydroshikimic acid
Popular Herbal Combinations with He Zi
- Mugwort + Hi Zi
- Psyllium Husk + Hi Zi
- Ginger + Hi Zi
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
- How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes.
- How to make a citrus facial splash
- Cayenne pepper: Caterpillar and aphid spray ( Natural insect repellent )
- Citrus potpourri basket.
About Plum Flower Quality Herb Powders
Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.
- Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results.
- Manufactured using Unsulfured, Chlorine free, Aluminum Phosphate free herbs when possible.
- Microbials and heavy metals tested. No preservatives.
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.
References
http://indiabiodiversity.org/species/show/31838
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3631759/#:~:text=chebula%20fruit%20inhibited%20cell%20proliferation,tumorigenic%20immortalized%20human%20prostate%20cell
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11936457_Effect_of_unprepared_and_prepared_he_zi_on_contraction_of_isolated_trachea_smooth_muscle_in_rabbits
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/aps/2016/8964849/
