Zi He Che

Homo sapiens Linnaeus

Genus: Homo Species: sapiens Pinyin: Zi He Che
Human placenta紫河车

☯ TCM Properties

Category: tonifying
Temperature: warm
Taste: sweet, salty
Meridians: lung, liver, kidney
Functions:

Warms the Kidneys and Secures Essence; Tonifies Qi; Nourishes Blood; Augments Lung Qi and aids the Kidneys in grasping Qi

Botanical Description

Zi He Che is the dried human placenta (Homo sapiens), historically processed and used in Traditional Chinese Medicine rather than a botanical species. The placenta is a transient mammalian organ formed during pregnancy that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall via the umbilical cord, mediating nutrient and gas exchange. In classical TCM preparation, the organ was thoroughly washed, blanched, then dried and powdered. Because of significant ethical, infectious-disease, and regulatory concerns, authentic placenta is now largely replaced in modern practice by plant-based or animal substitutes, and many jurisdictions restrict or prohibit its sale.

Dosage

FormAmountFrequency DurationPopulationNotes
decoction 9-30g Daily

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.

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