Psoralea Fruit
Psoralea Fruit (Bu Gu Zhi): A Warming Herb for Kidney Yang, Bones, and Diarrhea
Introduction
Psoralea fruit, known as Bu Gu Zhi (补骨脂) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a potent yang-tonifying herb that supports the Kidneys, strengthens bones, and stabilizes essence. Pungent and warm in nature, it is used to treat conditions such as lower back pain, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, and chronic diarrhea due to deficiency. Its strong Kidney-warming and essence-securing actions make it a core herb in formulas for reproductive health and aging support.
What Is Psoralea Fruit?
Bu Gu Zhi is the dried seed of Psoralea corylifolia, a plant native to Asia and now cultivated in parts of India and China. In TCM, it is classified as acrid, bitter, and very warm, and it enters the Kidney and Spleen meridians. Traditionally, it is used to tonify Kidney yang, consolidate essence, and warm the Spleen. It is often paired with herbs like Rou Cong Rong, Du Zhong, or Wu Wei Zi in formulas for yang deficiency syndromes.
Health Benefits of Psoralea Fruit
Tonifies Kidney Yang and Strengthens Bones
Used for low back pain, weak knees, osteoporosis, and cold sensations in the lower body.
Consolidates Essence and Stops Leakage
Treats spermatorrhea, frequent urination, and incontinence caused by deficient Kidney yang.
Warms the Spleen and Stops Chronic Diarrhea
Effective for early morning or persistent diarrhea due to cold Spleen and Kidney.
Supports Reproductive Function and Fertility
Improves libido and reproductive strength in both men and women.
Promotes Hair and Skin Health in TCM
Used traditionally for vitiligo and hair loss due to deficiency of essence and blood.
How to Use Psoralea Fruit
In Decoctions for Yang Deficiency or Diarrhea
Use 3–9 grams with herbs like Rou Dou Kou, Wu Zhu Yu, or Sha Yuan Zi. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.
In Tonifying or Consolidating Formulas
Found in formulas such as Si Shen Wan for chronic diarrhea or You Gui Wan for Kidney yang deficiency.
In Powder or Capsule Form
Commonly available as extract powders or encapsulated in fertility and vitality formulas.
Where to Buy Psoralea Fruit
You can find Bu Gu Zhi at the following places:
- Chinese herbal medicine shops
- Fertility and men’s health herbal apothecaries
- Online retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or TCM specialty sites
Look for:
- Small, oval brown to black seeds with a strong, spicy aroma
- Non-irradiated, lab-tested, and organic sources where possible
- Whole seeds or powdered forms, depending on preparation needs
Are There Any Side Effects?
Psoralea fruit is strong and should be used with care. Overuse may cause dryness, irritability, or dizziness due to its intense warming nature. It is contraindicated for individuals with yin deficiency heat or constipation. May cause photosensitivity in rare cases—especially in high doses or topical use.
Conclusion
Psoralea fruit, or Bu Gu Zhi, is a warming and essence-securing herb in TCM that treats yang deficiency, chronic diarrhea, and reproductive weakness. Whether in formulas for fertility, aging, or digestive strength, it offers deep reinforcement for the body’s root energy and stability.
FAQs
Can I take Psoralea fruit every day?
Yes, it is often used in long-term formulas for yang deficiency, but should be balanced with other herbs under supervision.
What does Psoralea fruit taste like?
It has a strong, bitter-spicy taste with a deeply warming effect.
Is Psoralea fruit safe for children?
Only in carefully monitored formulas and small doses, typically for chronic diarrhea or developmental yang deficiency.