Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange): Explore All Forms and Sizes for Your Needs

Discover Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange) in all forms and sizes, including bulk, powder, tea, and tinctures.
Explore its benefits for digestion, respiratory health, and overall wellness.

Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange) is a popular herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its ability to regulate Qi (energy flow), support digestion, and promote respiratory health. Derived from the dried peel of the bitter orange fruit (Citrus aurantium), Zhi Ke is milder than its counterpart Zhi Shi and is often used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and mild constipation. Its gentle properties make it ideal for addressing stagnant Qi, easing discomfort, and promoting overall wellness. Widely available in forms like tea, powder, and tincture, Zhi Ke is a versatile herb for maintaining balance in the body.

Shop Zhi Ke Forms and Sizes Below

Common Name: Bitter Orange Fruit
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium fructus
Chinese / Pin Yin Name: Zhi Ke
Dosage: Follow your doctor or health care professional's instructions.
Zhi Ke Precautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.  Do not use if you have gastric or duodenal ulcers unless under the supervision of our doctor.
Consult your healthcare provider before using if taking anticoagulant medications. 

Benefits & Information of Zhi Ke

Premium Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange) – Key Benefits at a Glance

The cut form of Zhi Ke can be used to make a decoction, tincture, or tea. Powdered Zhi Ke is perfect to make your own fresh, filler free, Zhi Ke capsules or compress.

Why Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange) Works

Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange) works through several mechanisms rooted in its bioactive compounds and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles:

1. Regulates Qi Flow (Energy Movement)

• In TCM: Zhi Ke helps to "move Qi" (energy) by relieving stagnation, particularly in the chest and digestive system. Stagnant Qi can cause discomfort, bloating, and a feeling of fullness.
• Mechanism: Its mild stimulating effects help relax smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting better movement of food and gas through the digestive system.

2. Contains Active Compounds with Biological Effects

Zhi Ke is rich in bioactive components such as:

• Flavonoids (e.g., hesperidin, naringin):
  • Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • Help improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress, benefiting skin and respiratory health.
• Alkaloids (e.g., synephrine):
  • A mild stimulant that supports metabolism and helps alleviate sluggish digestion and mild constipation.

3. Supports Digestive Health

• In TCM: Zhi Ke alleviates stagnation in the stomach and intestines, reducing bloating, distention, and discomfort.
• Mechanism: The compounds in Zhi Ke stimulate digestive enzymes and bile flow, enhancing digestion and reducing the buildup of gas and undigested food.

4. Relieves Respiratory Congestion

• In TCM: Zhi Ke clears phlegm and supports the lungs.
• Mechanism: The alkaloids and flavonoids in Zhi Ke help relax bronchial smooth muscles and reduce mucus production, making it easier to breathe and relieving chest congestion.

5. Gentle, Non-Purgative Action

• Unlike immature bitter orange (Zhi Shi), Zhi Ke provides a gentler effect, making it suitable for individuals who need milder support for digestion and respiratory health.

By combining its unique bioactive compounds with its traditional use to harmonize Qi, Zhi Ke offers a well-rounded mechanism for addressing digestive and respiratory issues, promoting circulation, and enhancing overall wellness.

Zhi Ke Herb Category:  Herbs that Regulate the Qi.
Zhi Ke Properties: Cold, Bitter
Zhi Ke Channels: Stomach, Spleen
Zhi Ke Components: Hesperidin, Neohesperidin,  Quinoline

Herbs that Combine With Zhi Ke

Balloon Flower   Cinnamon   White Peony   Bupleurum

Reference:
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Zhi-Ke-Cid312  
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ZhiKe(Qiao).html  
https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Citrus+aurantium   
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ZhiShi.html