Herbal Information on Organic White Atractylodes Root in Cut form
What Is The Importance Of White Atractylodes Roots - Bai Zhu?
Bai Zhu (Atractylodes macrocephala) has been a cornerstone herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. Historically, it has been highly valued for its ability to strengthen the spleen and stomach, which are central to TCM's understanding of health and digestion. Bai Zhu is documented in ancient texts like the "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" (Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), where it is praised for its effectiveness in treating digestive disorders, boosting energy, and supporting pregnancy by calming the fetus. Its use extends to alleviating water retention and promoting overall vitality.
What is Bai Zhu in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Bai Zhu, also known as Atractylodes macrocephala, is a key herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is derived from the rhizome of the Atractylodes plant and is highly regarded for its ability to strengthen the spleen and improve digestive health.
Uses of Bai Zhu in Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach:
- Digestive Health: Bai Zhu is commonly used to treat digestive disorders, including poor appetite, bloating, diarrhea, and indigestion. It helps to strengthen the spleen and stomach, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
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Gastroprotective Effects: Bai Zhu has been studied for its protective effects on the gastrointestinal tract, helping to alleviate symptoms of gastritis and other digestive issues. Read more on PubMed.
- Energy Boost: By tonifying the spleen, Bai Zhu helps to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue.
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Diuretic Properties:
- Reducing Edema: Bai Zhu has mild diuretic properties, which help to reduce water retention and edema (swelling caused by fluid accumulation).
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Immune System Support:
- Boosting Immunity: It is believed to enhance the body's immune system, making it more resilient against infections and diseases.
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Immune System Modulation: Research has shown that compounds in Bai Zhu can modulate immune responses, which may be beneficial in managing various immune-related conditions. Read more on PubMed.
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Regulating Sweat:
- Stopping Excessive Sweating: Bai Zhu is used to treat spontaneous sweating and night sweats by regulating the body's sweating mechanism.
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Calming the Fetus:
- Pregnancy Support: In TCM, Bai Zhu is sometimes used to help calm a restless fetus and prevent miscarriage in women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss.
- Research on Bai Zhu's Role in Pregnancy: Bai Zhu is noted for its ability to stabilize pregnancy, particularly in women with a history of recurrent miscarriages. This is due to its spleen-strengthening properties, which are crucial in TCM for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Common Name: White Atractylodes Root, Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae, Bighead atractylodes rhizome
Botanical Name: Atractylodes macrocephala
Pin Yin Name: Bai Zhu
Organic: Yes, USDA Certified Organic
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 1 pound
Form: Cut / Sliced, not uniform pieces.
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Lab Test - Geo-Authentic Herbs
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use when yin deficiency is present. Do not use if dehydrated.
May cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. (Ragweed Family). Bai Zhu should only be used for short periods of time.
California Prop 65
Product Properties: Bitter, Sweet, Warm
Channels: Stomach, Liver, Spleen
Naturally Occurring Components: humulene, β-elemol, α-curcumene, atractlone, 3β-acetoxyatractylone, β-selinene
Summary of Bai Zhu
- Tonifies Spleen Qi
- Augments Qi
- Dries dampness
- Induces Diuresis
- Arrests sweating
- Can cause occasional bouts of diarrhea
- Benefits Digestion (1)
- Supports the Immune System (2)
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References
- "Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala)." Chinese Herbs Healing. Web. 23 Sept. 2015. <http://www.chineseherbshealing.com/bai-zhu-atractylodes-macrocephala/>.
- Liu H, Zhu Y, Zhang T, Zhao Z, Zhao Y, Cheng P, Li H, Gao H, Su X. Anti-tumor effects of atractylenolide I isolated from Atractylodes macrocephala in human lung carcinoma cell lines. Molecules. 2013 Oct 29;18(11):13357-68. doi: 10.3390/molecules181113357. PubMed PMID: 24172243.
- Song HP, Li RL, Zhou C, Cai X, Huang HY. Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz stimulates intestinal epithelial cell migration through a polyamine dependent mechanism. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015 Jan 15;159:23-35. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.10.059. Epub 2014 Nov 12. PubMed PMID: 25446597.
- https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Bai-Zhu-Cid3939
- https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/BaiZhu.html
- (1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796224/
- (2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6017956/