Zhi Qiao / Zhi Shi Shell (Citrus aurantium) — Dried Bitter Orange Fruit for TCM Tea & Decoction

Zhi Qiao (枳壳), also written as Zhi Shi Shell (枳实壳), is the dried immature or unripe fruit of the bitter orange tree, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Zhǐ Qiào (枳壳) and botanically as Citrus aurantium. For centuries, this aromatic citrus fruit has been prized as a qi-regulating, digestion-supporting herb used to move stagnation, ease the chest and abdomen, and harmonize the middle burner. Its nature is bitter, slightly cold, and gently descending, making it a classic herb for smoothing the flow of qi and relieving feelings of fullness.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional qi-regulating citrus herb
• Dried Zhi Qiao / Zhi Shi fruit shells
• Citrus aurantium botanical identity
• Sourced from Jiangxi, China
• Suitable for decoction and herbal tea blends

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve its pale greenish-brown to yellowish-brown color, firm leathery texture, and bright citrus aroma. When decocted, the shells release a gently bitter, aromatic infusion with a subtle citrus warmth, adding depth to herbal formulas without overpowering companion herbs.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoction
• Herbal tea blends
• Medicinal food soup packs
• Daily qi-regulating tea
• TCM formula ingredient

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Zhi Qiao is decocted into soups and teas to support the smooth movement of qi, ease occasional feelings of chest or abdominal fullness, and complement richer tonic herbs. It is a common ingredient in classical formulas paired with herbs like Chen Pi, Bai Zhu, and Mu Xiang, and is often simmered into medicinal food soups for seasonal digestive comfort.

FAQ Q&A