Ce Bai Ye
Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco
☯ TCM Properties
Cools the Blood and Stops Bleeding; Resolves Phlegm and Stops Cough; Promotes hair growth and darkens hair
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Platycladus orientalis (Cupressaceae), Chinese arborvitae or Ce Bai, is an evergreen coniferous shrub or small tree 5-20 m tall with a dense ovoid to columnar crown and reddish-brown, vertically fissured bark that peels in thin strips. The flattened branchlets are arranged in vertical, fan-shaped sprays, distinguishing it from the related Thuja. Scale-like leaves 1-3 mm long are tightly appressed in opposite decussate pairs, fragrant when crushed. The plant is monoecious with small terminal cones; mature seed cones are distinctive, fleshy when young (glaucous blue-green with hooked scales), maturing to woody and brown 1.5-2.5 cm long. Cultivated across temperate Asia and widely planted globally as an ornamental. The leafy twigs (Ce Bai Ye), harvested year-round, are dried for medicinal use. (Sources: POWO; Wikipedia)
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ce Bai Ye (Chinese arborvitae leaf) is a cool herb used in Chinese medicine to cool the Blood and stop bleeding, especially bleeding from Heat in the Blood. It addresses nosebleeds, coughing up blood, and heavy menstrual bleeding, and its astringent properties make it effective for hemorrhoidal bleeding. In its charred form, its hemostatic properties are enhanced. It also relieves cough and transforms Phlegm-Heat, and was historically used topically and internally for hair loss — a use preserved in classical hair-care formulas.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.