Zhi Ke / Fried Zhi Ke (Citrus aurantium) — Dried Bitter Orange Decoction Pieces & Powder

Zhi Ke (枳壳), botanically Citrus aurantium, is the dried immature or unripe fruit of the bitter orange tree, a classic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Revered for centuries as a qi-regulating and digestion-supporting herb, Zhi Ke is traditionally used to move stagnant qi, ease chest and abdominal fullness, and support the smooth flow of digestion. Its nature is bitter, pungent, and slightly cold, entering the Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine channels. This listing offers both naturally sun-dried Zhi Ke pieces and finely milled Zhi Ke powder, as well as bran-fried (麸炒) Zhi Ke, a traditional processing method that softens its character and makes it gentler on the digestive system.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional qi-regulating and digestion-supporting herb
• Available as dried pieces, bran-fried pieces, and fine powder
• Botanical identity: Citrus aurantium (bitter orange)
• Naturally sun-dried processing
• 500g value pack for daily herbal use

Quality & Sensory

Each batch of Zhi Ke is naturally sun-dried to preserve its pale yellowish-brown to greenish exterior and its firm, dense texture. The sliced pieces show a light inner surface with a subtle citrus aroma. When decocted, Zhi Ke yields a bitter, slightly pungent infusion with a faint citrus note. The bran-fried version carries a warmer, toasted aroma and a milder bitterness, while the powder form blends easily into teas and decoctions with a fine, even consistency.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoctions and teas
• Digestive wellness blends
• Soup and congee ingredients
• Herbal pairing formulas
• Daily qi-regulating tea

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Zhi Ke is decocted into teas and soups to support the smooth movement of qi and ease occasional digestive discomfort. It is often paired with herbs like Chen Pi (aged tangerine peel), Bai Zhu, and Mu Xiang in traditional formulas. Bran-fried Zhi Ke is preferred in gentler daily preparations, while the powder form is convenient for blending into warm water or congee. As a daily tea, it can be brewed alone or combined with other food herbs for a light, bitter-citrus infusion.

FAQ Q&A