Immature Bitter Orange

The young fruits of Citrus aurantium (or Citrus sinensis), still green and small, harvested early in summer (often those that fall naturally from the tree) then cut in half or into quarters and dried.

They come as small half-fruits or quarters, hard and compact, of a blackish green, giving off a very bitter and pungent scent.

Younger than Zhi Ke and richer in essential oils: Zhi Shi is appreciably more assertive and more turned towards the lower body.

A strongly moving herb for carrying down and moving the Qi that stagnates in the lower region and in the Earth Phase (coupled), particularly when that stagnation makes marked accumulations that hamper the descending movement.

A more powerful action than Zhi Ke, to be handled with discernment.

• Decoction: 3 to 4 g, simmer for 25 minutes
• Distinction from Zhi Ke: Zhi Shi (unripe, more powerful): the Qi of the lower region, accumulations; Zhi Ke (ripe): the Qi of the upper region, mild distension
• Da Cheng Qi Tang: a blend of Zhang Zhongjing with Da Huang for marked accumulations

Not recommended for children, for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or in case of antihypertensive treatment.

Naturally contains synephrine. Also not recommended for adolescents. Do not combine with drinks containing caffeine, or take before intense physical effort. Do not exceed the quantity of use indicated.

Ask a practitioner for advice for use beyond a few days.