Bai Ji Li (Tribuli Fructus)

Bai Ji Li (白蒺藜, Ci Ji Li), the fruit of Tribulus, calms the Liver and subdues ascendant yang, spreads constrained Liver qi, and dispels wind to benefit the eyes and relieve itching.

Bái Jí Lí  ·  白蒺藜

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Tribulus terrestris (Fructus Tribuli)

Common English Name

Tribulus / caltrop fruit

Taste

Bitter, acrid

Temperature

Neutral

Channels Entered

Liver

Actions & Functions

  • Calms the Liver and subdues ascendant yang (headache, dizziness)
  • Spreads constrained Liver qi (hypochondriac distension, breast distension)
  • Dispels wind, benefits the eyes and relieves itching

Indications

Liver yang or constraint with headache, dizziness and hypochondriac and breast distension; red, painful eyes; and wind rashes with itching.

Dosage

6-9 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Ju Hua for red eyes; with Chai Hu for Liver constraint.

Cautions & Contraindications

Use with caution in pregnancy and in qi and blood deficiency.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

Check Also

Pub Med

Tai Chi reduces inflammation and insomnia

Background: Insomnia contributes to inflammation in breast cancer survivors. This study evaluates whether insomnia treatment reverses …