Ji Nei Jin
Gallus gallus domesticus Brisson
☯ TCM Properties
Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation; Strengthens the Spleen; Secures Essence and Stops Enuresis; Softens hardness and dissolves stones; Resolves Food Stagnation and Transforms Accumulations
Botanical Description
Ji Nei Jin is the dried inner lining (endothelium) of the gizzard (muscular stomach) of the domestic chicken, Gallus gallus domesticus (Phasianidae). After slaughter, the gizzard is split, the contents discarded, and the tough, yellow, keratinous inner membrane is peeled off and sun-dried into curled, brittle, translucent flakes 3-5 cm across. The membrane is the cuticle that protects the gizzard wall from abrasion by grit and food. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji Nei Jin is sweet and neutral, entering the Spleen, Stomach, Small Intestine, and Bladder channels, used to strengthen the spleen, promote digestion, dissolve stones (urinary and gallstones), and stop enuresis. It is one of the most commonly prescribed digestive aids in Chinese pharmacy. (Sources: Wikipedia; Bensky Chinese Materia Medica)
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-12g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ji Nei Jin (chicken gizzard lining, gallus gallus domesticus endothelium) is a neutral, sweet herb derived from the dried inner lining of the chicken gizzard. It is the most important herb in Chinese medicine for dissolving kidney and gallbladder stones and for reducing food stagnation — dissolving hardened accumulations with a gentle but persistent action. It also consolidates Kidney Jing to address spermatorrhea and enuresis. As both a food substance and a medicinal herb, it exemplifies the TCM principle of using food-grade materials for therapeutic purposes.
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.