Tribulus fruit (Baijili)

Pharmaceutical Name : Fructus Tribuli

Botanical Name : Tribulus terestris L.

Common Name: Tribulus fruit. Puncture-vine fruit

Source of Earliest Record : Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations : The ripe fruit is gathered in autumn, dried in the sun and baked until the fruit turns yellow.

Properties & Taste : Bitter, pungent and neutral

Meridian : Liver

Functions :
1. To pacify the liver and subdue the yang;
2. To promote the free flow of qi in the liver and release stagnation;
3. To expel wind and stop itching;
4. To brighten the eyes

Indications & Combinations:

1. Hyperactivity of liver yang manifested as dizziness, vertigo, distension and pain in the head. Tribulus fruit (Baijili) is used with Uncaria stem (Gouteng), Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua) and White peony root (Baishao).

2. Qi stagnation of the liver manifested as distension in the breasts, uncomfortable feeling in the chest and hypochondriac regions and obstructed lactation. Tribulus fruit (Baijili) is used with Bupleurum root (Chaihu), Tangerine leaf (Juye), Green tangerine peel (Qingpi) and Cyperus tuber (Xiangfu).

3. Wind and heat in the liver meridian manifested as red eyes and profuse lacrimation. Tribulus fruit (Baijili) is used with Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua), Chastetree fruit (Manjingzi) and Cassia seed (Juemingzi).

4. Wind and heat in the blood manifested as rubella and itching. Tribulus fruit (Baijili) is used with Schizonepeta (Jingjie) and Cicada slough (Chantui).

Dosage: 6-10 g