Bush Cherry Pit

Bush Cherry Pit (Yu Li Ren): A Bitter Herb for Moistening the Intestines, Promoting Urination, and Relieving Constipation

Introduction

Bush cherry pit, known as Yu Li Ren (郁李仁) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is bitter, sweet, and neutral. It is valued for moistening the intestines, promoting urination, and unblocking the bowels. Yu Li Ren is especially used for constipation due to dryness and fluid deficiency, as well as edema and urinary difficulty. Its dual ability to both moisten and drain makes it useful in digestive and water-metabolism disorders.

What Is Bush Cherry Pit?

Yu Li Ren comes from the seed of Prunus humilis Bunge or related Prunus species, a type of bush cherry. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, sweet, and neutral, entering the Large Intestine and Small Intestine meridians. Its moistening quality relieves dry stools, while its draining nature promotes urination and reduces swelling.

Health Benefits of Bush Cherry Pit

Moistens intestines and relieves constipation – Especially effective for dry constipation due to yin or fluid deficiency.

Promotes urination – Used for edema, urinary difficulty, and water retention.

Reduces swelling – Helps with mild edema and bloating.

How to Use Bush Cherry Pit

Decoction – Often boiled with other moistening or draining herbs for constipation and edema.

Powder – Ground and taken in small doses for stubborn constipation.

Formulas – Commonly combined with herbs like Huo Ma Ren (Cannabis Seed) or Dang Gui (Angelica Root) for enhanced bowel-moistening effects.

Where to Buy Bush Cherry Pit

TCM shops – Available as dried seeds.

Herbal suppliers – Sold online as whole seeds or powdered extract.

Look for: clean, intact seeds with a faint nutty aroma, stored dry to prevent rancidity.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Yu Li Ren should be used with caution in those with loose stools, chronic diarrhea, or weak digestion, as its moistening effect can aggravate dampness. Overdose may cause nausea or abdominal discomfort.

Conclusion

Bush cherry pit (Yu Li Ren) is a neutral, moistening herb that relieves constipation and promotes urination. Gentle yet effective, it is a supportive remedy in both digestive and water-retention conditions in TCM.

FAQ

Can it help with dry constipation? – Yes, it moistens intestines and relieves dryness.

Does it reduce swelling? – Yes, it promotes urination and helps with edema.

Is it safe for long-term use? – It should be used in moderation; prolonged use may weaken digestion.