Bai Zi Ren-Chinese arborvitae

Description
Bai Zi Ren, the seed of Platycladus orientalis (Chinese arborvitae), is a gentle yet effective herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its ability to nourish the Heart and calm the Spirit. It is oily in nature, making it both a Yin tonic and a natural mild laxative. Bai Zi Ren is traditionally used to:

• Calm the Shen (安神) in cases of Heart-Yin or Blood deficiency

• Moisten the intestines (润肠) to treat constipation due to dryness

• Nourish Heart and Kidney (养心肾) for insomnia and palpitations

This product does not make medical claims.

Key Benefits

1. Sleep & Anxiety Support (养心安神)
   Commonly used for insomnia, excessive dreaming, palpitations, and anxiety
   Effective in calming the mind without causing sedation

2. Moistens Intestines (润肠通便)
   Due to its high oil content, it gently relieves constipation, especially in elderly or deficient individuals
   Balances dryness without purgative effects

3. Heart & Kidney Nourishment (养心益肾)
   Addresses Heart-Kidney disharmony, a common TCM pattern for restlessness and disturbed sleep
   Traditionally combined with herbs like Suan Zao Ren or Dang Gui for synergistic tonifying effects

4. Cognitive & Emotional Balance (情志调节)
   Supports emotional regulation and memory
   Often used in long-term formulas for aging-related emotional imbalance

Preparation Methods
Decoction: Lightly crush 6–12g and simmer for 15–20 minutes
Powder: 3–6g taken with warm water or congee
Capsule/Pill: Typically 3–4 capsules, 2–3 times daily, or as directed by a practitioner
Also used as an ingredient in calming teas and nourishing pastes

Flavor Profile
Initial Taste: Mild and nutty
Mid-Palate: Slightly sweet with an oily mouthfeel
Finish: Soft and lingering, gentle tonifying sensation

Cautions
Not suitable for diarrhea due to Spleen deficiency
Use with caution in cases of excessive dampness or loose stools
Overdose may lead to mild digestive discomfort due to oil content
Consult a professional if used long-term in sensitive individuals

Storage
Whole seeds or powder: Store in a cool, dry place in airtight containers, best used within 1 year
Due to natural oils, may go rancid if exposed to heat or moisture

Classic Formulas Featuring Bai Zi Ren
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (天王补心丹): For Heart-Yin deficiency with insomnia
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan (柏子养心丸): For nourishing Heart Blood and calming Shen
Ren Shen Bai Zi San (人参柏子散): For forgetfulness and restlessness due to deficiency