fructus aurantii

Fructus Aurantii is the dried immature fruit of Citrus aurantium L. (bitter orange) and its cultivars. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is known as Zhi Ke or Zhi Qiao (枳壳) and is used to promote the movement of Qi, relieve distention and pressure in the abdomen, resolve food stagnation, disperse accumulations, dissolve phlegm, and support gastrointestinal motility[1][2][4]. Pharmacologically, Fructus Aurantii contains flavonoids and other bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties[6][8]. Modern research indicates that extracts of Fructus Aurantii can ameliorate intestinal inflammation by downregulating inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor-α while upregulating tight junction proteins in the intestinal barrier[6]. It has been shown to improve symptoms in functional dyspepsia models by promoting gastric emptying and intestinal propulsion through modulation of gastrointestinal hormones including motilin, gastrin, ghrelin, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leptin, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and cholecystokinin[7]. The mechanism involves regulation of pathways such as Fc epsilon RI signaling pathway[6]. Clinically it is used for digestive disorders like abdominal distention/constipation/indigestion/functional dyspepsia/irritable bowel syndrome; some evidence also suggests potential benefits for weight management though data are inconclusive[3][8].

Other names

zhi kezhi qiaobitter orangeaurantii fructus枳壳