albizia julibrissin bark

Albizia julibrissin bark (silktree albizia bark; Chinese name 合欢皮) is the inner stem or trunk bark of the Albizia julibrissin tree. It has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "he huan pi" and is traditionally used to calm the spirit (*shen*), alleviate anxiety and depression, promote restful sleep, and relieve emotional distress. The herb also has applications for trauma-related pain and swelling due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties[1][4][5]. Modern research suggests that its bioactive compounds—such as triterpenoid saponins (notably various julibrosides), flavonoids, lignans, sterols—may contribute to anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), antidepressant, sedative/hypnotic effects as well as antioxidant activity[3][5][9]. Some studies have shown cytotoxic/anticancer effects in vitro via induction of apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines[1][5]. In addition to oral use for mood disorders and insomnia[2], topical preparations are sometimes used for skin infections or trauma. There is insufficient clinical evidence from modern trials supporting these uses.

Other names

silktree albizia bark合欢皮he huan pisilk tree barkAlbizia julibrissin barkPersian silk tree barkmimosa tree bark