Ji Xing Zi, 1lb

Pharmaceutical Latin: Semen Impatientis
Common English Names: Garden Balsam Seed, Rose Balsam, Quick-Temper Seed
Chinese Name: (Ji Xing Zi)

Overview

Ji Xing Zi is classified in the materia medica category of Herbs that Regulate the Blood, specifically as an herb that breaks up Blood Stasis. This herb has a bitter (slightly bitter) and acrid taste with a warm temperature and is slightly toxic. It enters the Heart, Liver, and Chong meridians.

Actions and Therapeutic Applications

Ji Xing Zi disperses Blood Stagnation, regulates Qi, softens hardness, disperses tumors and removes toxins. It is indicated for dyspepsia, a painful hard abdomen, intestinal colic, esophageal obstruction, choking due to inadvertent swallowing of bones, dysphagia, esophageal cancer, and abdominal mass.

Additionally, this herb increases uterine contraction and promotes contraception. It is indicated for deficient spasmodic menstrual conditions, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, prolonged pregnancy, miscarriage, and stalled labor.

Clinical Notes

This herb has an inhibitory effect on ovulation and has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. One source says that this herb has a violent action and large doses are forbidden.

For swelling or tumor, pound this herb together with Bul. Allii Macrostemi (Xie Bai) and apply topically. For a stronger effect, add Moschus (She Xiang) and Resina Ferulae (A Wei).

For dysphagia, roast this herb until yellow, grind into a fine powder and take 3-9g each time with old wine.

When cooking fish, cooks usually put several seeds into the broiler to help broil the hard meat.

Garden Balsam Flower, Flos Impatientis (Ji Xing Hua) treats traumatic injury, amenorrhea, sprains, arthralgia, furuncles, tinea and snake bites. Its dosage is 3-6g in infusion.