3Zhi Ke - Orange amère (mature) - Fructus Aurantii

Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange Mature Peel) is a warm, Qi-regulating herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its ability to move Qi, reduce distension, and ease chest and abdominal discomfort. Derived from the mature peel of the bitter orange fruit, Zhi Ke is milder than its unripe counterpart Zhi Shi, making it suitable for weaker or more sensitive individuals. It helps restore smooth Qi flow in cases of stagnation, supports digestion, and assists in resolving phlegm accumulation. Its gentle nature makes it a common choice in formulas for digestive sluggishness, bloating, chest tightness, and cough with phlegm.

Fonctions et avantages

Promotes Qi Flow and Relieves Distension
Moves stagnant Qi in the chest, diaphragm, and abdomen, reducing feelings of fullness, bloating, and pressure. Improves circulation of Qi without causing excessive stimulation, making it ideal for individuals with a more delicate constitution.

Supports Digestion and Relieves Bloating
Alleviates indigestion, poor appetite, and sluggish digestion caused by Qi stagnation in the middle burner.

Transforms Phlegm and Eases the Chest
Helps open the chest, reduce cough, and resolve phlegm accumulation in cases of Qi stagnation affecting the Lungs.

Gentle Regulation for Sensitive or Weakened Patients
Offers the Qi-moving benefits of Zhi Shi in a milder form, suitable for elderly, postpartum, or convalescent patients who cannot tolerate strong Qi movers.

Indications (qui peut en bénéficier ?)
✔ Individuals with chest tightness, bloating, and abdominal distension caused by Qi stagnation.
✔ People with poor appetite, sluggish digestion, or indigestion.
✔ Those with cough and phlegm due to Lung Qi obstruction.
✔ Weaker or sensitive patients needing gentle Qi regulation.

Diagnostic de la langue et du pouls en MTC
Tongue: Slightly pale or normal with a thin coating, suggesting Qi stagnation without significant heat.
Pulse: Moderate or slightly wiry, reflecting mild Qi constraint.

Modèles apparentés de la MTC
Qi Stagnation in the Middle Burner – Causes bloating, fullness, and indigestion.
Lung Qi Stagnation with Phlegm – Leads to cough, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
Weakened Qi Flow – Seen in those recovering from illness or childbirth, where strong Qi movers are too harsh.

Applications cliniques (pour référence uniquement)
Digestive Sluggishness – Improves appetite and reduces post-meal bloating.
Mild Chest Oppression – Opens the chest and relieves fullness.
Cough with Phlegm – Helps move Qi and disperse phlegm for easier breathing.
Gentle Qi Regulation – Supports recovery in elderly or weakened patients.

Common Herbal Formulas with Zhi Ke
Often combined with Bai Zhu, Chen Pi, and Fu Ling for digestive Qi stagnation, or with herbs like Ban Xia and Jie Geng for chest congestion with phlegm.

Précautions et contre-indications
Avoid in cases of Qi deficiency without stagnation.
Not suitable for pregnancy unless prescribed by a qualified practitioner.
Use with caution in individuals with dry cough or Yin deficiency.

Recommandations en matière de mode de vie et d'alimentation
✔ Eat warm, easily digestible foods to support Qi flow and digestion.
✔ Avoid heavy, greasy, or overly cold foods that cause stagnation.
✔ Engage in regular gentle exercise to promote circulation and relieve abdominal tightness.
✔ Maintain a balanced daily routine to support digestive health.

Conclusion
Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange Mature Peel) is a mild yet effective Qi-regulating herb in TCM, perfect for easing bloating, chest tightness, and phlegm-related discomfort in sensitive or weakened individuals. Its gentle nature makes it a versatile choice for both digestive and respiratory conditions linked to Qi stagnation.