Jing Jie
Schizonepeta tenuifolia Briq.
☯ TCM Properties
Releases the Exterior and Disperses Wind-Cold; Vents Rashes and Stops Itching; Disperses Swelling and Dissipates Abscesses; Stops Bleeding
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Schizonepeta tenuifolia, Japanese catnip or Jing Jie, is an aromatic annual herb in the Lamiaceae family, native to East Asia and widely cultivated in China, Japan, and Korea. It grows erect to 30-100 cm with quadrangular, finely pubescent, branching stems. Leaves are opposite, deeply pinnately divided into 3-5 narrow linear-lanceolate segments 1.5-3 cm long, giving a feathery appearance. Small pale pink to lilac two-lipped flowers are densely arranged in terminal cylindrical spikes 2-13 cm long in late summer. The whole flowering plant is cut, sun-dried, and is rich in volatile oils dominated by pulegone and menthone.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Jing Jie (schizonepeta herb) is a mild, warm, acrid herb that releases Wind-Cold from the Exterior and promotes the expression of rashes and measles. It is a gentle exterior-releasing herb appropriate for Wind-Cold patterns with mild chills and fever, as well as for the early-eruptive stage of measles and heat rashes. In its charred form (Jing Jie Tan), its astringent and hemostatic properties are enhanced for stopping certain types of bleeding, particularly uterine and skin surface bleeding.
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.