Use of Bu Gu Zhi (psoralea fruits) in TCM

Please note that you should never self-prescribe TCM ingredients. A TCM ingredient is almost never eaten on its own but as part of a formula containing several ingredients that act together. Please consult a professional TCM practitioner, they will be best able to guide you.

Preparation: Collect ripe seeds and dry them.

Dosage: 3 to 9 g

Main actions according to TCM*: Tonifies the Kidney and Spleen Yang and rises Kidney Qi. Prevent Essence leakage and holds urines.

Primary conditions or symptoms for which Bu Gu Zhi may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Psoriasis Vitiligo Impotence Seminal emission Enuresis Frequent urination Loin pain Knee pain Asthma Diarrhea Alopecia areata

Contraindications*: Liang RN, Liu J, Lu J. ( 2008). Treatment of refractory polycystic ovary syndrome by bushen huoxue method combined with ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. , 28(4):314-7.

Common TCM formulas in which Bu Gu Zhi is used*

Key TCM concepts behind Bu Gu Zhi's properties

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bu Gu Zhi belongs to the 'Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency' category. Tonic herbs are used for patterns of Deficiency, when one lacks one of the 'Four Treasures' (Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang). Yang Tonics are generally used in combination with a small amount of Yin tonics. If Yin is deficient, neither Qi nor Yang herbs alone will be effective. The most common symptoms associated with Yang Deficiency are low libido and impotence. It is worth mentioning that another very effective remedy against Yang Deficiency is regular exercise.

Furthermore Bu Gu Zhi is Warm in nature. This means that Bu Gu Zhi tends to help people who have too much 'Cold' in their body, although with less effect than a plant that would be Hot in nature. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Cold in their body are said to either have a Yin Excess (because Yin is Cold in nature) or a Yang Deficiency (Yang is Hot in Nature). Depending on your condition Bu Gu Zhi can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

Bu Gu Zhi also tastes Bitter and Pungent. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Bitter ingredients like Bu Gu Zhi tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements. On the other hand Pungent ingredients tend to promote the circulations of Qi and Body Fluids. That's why for instance someone tends to sweat a lot when they eat spicy/pungent food.

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Bu Gu Zhi is thought to target the Spleen and the Kidney. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in the body. The Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body.

Research on Bu Gu Zhi

Bushen Houxue method (consisted of psoralea fruit) combined with ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration is a safe and effective treatment for refractory polycystic ovary syndrome, with few trauma.¹

Sources:

1. Liang RN, Liu J, Lu J. ( 2008). Treatment of refractory polycystic ovary syndrome by bushen huoxue method combined with ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. , 28(4):314-7.