Shan Zha Charred Hawthorn Berry cooked

Shan Zha 山楂（焦）, derived from the charred fruit of Crataegus pinnatifida, is a modified form of hawthorn used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The charring process enhances its astringent properties while retaining digestive benefits, making it particularly effective for treating diarrhea and food stagnation with heat signs.

Traditional applications described for educational purposes. Professional guidance recommended for therapeutic use.

Key Benefits
Resolves Food Stagnation (消食化积) – Especially effective for meat/fatty food stagnation with diarrhea.
Stops Diarrhea (止泻) – Charred form excels at treating acute diarrhea with undigested food.
Promotes Blood Circulation (活血) – Mild blood-moving effects for postpartum lochia or stasis.
Lipid Regulation – Modern research supports cholesterol modulation.

Dosage & Administration
Decoction: 6–12g (add to formulas for digestive disorders).
Powder: 3–6g mixed with warm water for acute diarrhea.
Classic Pairings:
With Shen Qu and Mai Ya (Jiao San Xian) for severe food stagnation.
With Bai Zhu for spleen deficiency with chronic loose stools.

Characteristics
Taste: Sour, astringent (charring increases bitterness).
Nature: Slightly warm (more neutral than raw hawthorn).

Safety Notes
Contraindicated in diarrhea from cold deficiency without stagnation.
May interact with anticoagulants in large doses.
Avoid during pregnancy (blood-moving effect).