Chinese Honeylocust Fruit — Classic Formulas
Zao Jia · Fructus Gleditsiae Abnormalis
Primary Actions
- Expels stubborn phlegm and opens the orifices - Zao Jia is used for thick phlegm obstruction, wheezing, phlegm syncope, and blocked sensory opening states.
- Reduces swelling and dissipates masses - traditional indications include throat swelling, sores, and abscesses before ulceration.
- Kills parasites and is used externally - tinea and other stubborn skin conditions are part of its classical profile.
Classic Formulas
- Orifice-opening powder lineages use very small amounts of Zao Jia for phlegm syncope and stubborn internal blockage.
- Sore-swelling and throat-obstruction lineages combine Zao Jia with heat-clearing and toxin-resolving herbs when phlegm and toxin bind together.
Classical Text References
- TCM Wiki describes Zao Jia as pungent, salty, warm, and slightly toxic, entering the Lung and Large Intestine to dispel phlegm, open blockage, expel wind, and kill worms.
- Traditional cautions emphasize that Zao Jia is too harsh for pregnancy, bleeding tendency, and severe qi-yin deficiency.