Immature Bitter Orange, also known as Unripe Bitter Orange, Chih-Shih, Ponciri and Citrus.

It is native to Southeast Asia and has been spread by humans to many parts of the world. It is probably a cross between the pomelo (Citrus maxima) and the mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata).

Wild trees are found near small streams in generally secluded and wooded parts of Florida and the Bahamas after it was introduced to the area from Spain, where it had been introduced and cultivated heavily beginning in the 10th century by the Moors.

Based on TCM, this herb can be used to breaks up stagnant qi, reduces accumulation, descends qi, unblocks the bowels and removes stagnant food. Also, transforms phlegm, reduces distention and resolves hardenings.

Some indications that can be treat by this herb with specific dosage and formulation are qi stagnation and accumulation with epigastric or abdominal pain and distention or indigestion with focal distention or gas; food stagnation; turbid phlegm obstructing the qi with focal distention and fullness in the chest and epigastrium.

Note: this is just an information regarding Immature Bitter Orange. For the usage and dosage and for the specific health issue, please consult with the herbalist or your health care provider.

References:

1. Bensky, D., Scheid, V., Ellis, A. & Barolet, R. (2015). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Eastland Press, Inc.
2. Chen, John. & Chen, Tina. (2012). Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. Art of Medicine Press.
3. Penner, Joel. (2017). Zhi Shi. https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ZhiShi.html
4. (2021). Bitter Orange. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitter_orange