Chicken Gizzard Membrane

Chicken Gizzard Membrane (Ji Nei Jin): A Digestive Herb for Food Stagnation, Stones, and Nutrient Absorption

Introduction

Chicken gizzard membrane, known as Ji Nei Jin (鸡内金) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a golden-yellow lining from the inner wall of a chicken’s gizzard, prized for its remarkable ability to aid digestion, resolve food stagnation, and dissolve accumulations. Often used in pediatric formulas and recovery protocols, this herb is mild yet effective in improving nutrient absorption, breaking down stubborn food residues, and addressing urinary or gallstones.

What Is Chicken Gizzard Membrane?

Ji Nei Jin is the dried inner lining of a chicken’s gizzard, carefully separated, cleaned, and processed. In TCM, it is considered sweet and neutral and enters the Spleen, Stomach, Small Intestine, and Bladder meridians. Traditionally, it is used to strongly promote digestion, transform food accumulations, secure the essence, and soften hardness such as calculi or masses. Its safe profile and reliable digestive action make it especially valuable for children and individuals with weak digestion or chronic indigestion.

Health Benefits of Chicken Gizzard Membrane

Improves Digestion and Relieves Food Stagnation
Ji Nei Jin helps break down difficult-to-digest foods such as meat or dairy, relieving symptoms like bloating, belching, or indigestion.

Dissolves Stones and Masses
It is traditionally used to support the breakdown of gallstones, kidney stones, or urinary bladder calculi through its softening and dispersing effects.

Enhances Nutrient Absorption
By strengthening the Spleen and improving digestive efficiency, this herb helps extract more nutrition from food and supports recovery from malnourishment.

Aids Pediatric Digestion and Feeding Transitions
Used for children who have trouble digesting milk, rice, or solid foods, especially when growth or development is sluggish.

Secures the Essence and Treats Bedwetting
In addition to digestive uses, Ji Nei Jin can help with involuntary urination or spermatorrhea due to its ability to astringe and firm the lower burner.

How to Use Chicken Gizzard Membrane

In Herbal Decoctions or Teas
Simmer 6–12 grams with herbs like Shen Qu, malt, or hawthorn for 20–30 minutes to support digestion and relieve food stagnation.

In Powder or Ground Form
Ji Nei Jin is often ground into powder and taken with warm water or honey for easier use—especially for children or during stone treatment.

In Formulas or Pills
Found in many traditional formulas targeting stones, digestive stagnation, or urinary issues; also available as single-herb granules.

Where to Buy Chicken Gizzard Membrane

You can find Ji Nei Jin at the following places:

• Chinese herbal medicine shops

• Herbal apothecaries or Asian pharmacies

• Online retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or TCM specialty stores

Look for:

• Clean, golden-yellow dried membrane strips or powder

• Sulfur-free, lab-tested packaging

• Clearly labeled origin and processing details

Are There Any Side Effects?

Chicken gizzard membrane is generally very safe and well tolerated. It should be used with caution in those with yin deficiency and dryness, as it is mildly drying in nature. People with severe Spleen qi deficiency or active gastrointestinal inflammation should consult a practitioner. Suitable for children in age-appropriate doses.

Conclusion

Chicken gizzard membrane, or Ji Nei Jin, is a gentle yet powerful herb for improving digestion, resolving stagnation, and softening internal accumulations like stones. Whether taken as tea, powder, or part of a larger formula, it plays a valuable role in promoting smoother digestion, nutrient absorption, and long-term gastrointestinal health.

FAQs

Can I use chicken gizzard membrane every day?
Yes, especially in powdered form for chronic indigestion or stone prevention, but prolonged use should be monitored by a practitioner.

What does chicken gizzard membrane taste like?
It has a mild, neutral taste—slightly meaty when simmered but easy to combine with other herbs or honey.

Is chicken gizzard membrane safe for children?
Yes, commonly used in pediatric formulas for food stagnation or milk indigestion. Dosage should be adjusted by weight and age.