In the "Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Medicine", the plant named Zi Jin Pi refers to the root bark of the Magnolia officinalis, which belongs to the Magnoliaceae family. The plant named Zi Jing Pi refers to the bark of the Cercis chinensis, which belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is evident that these two medicinal herbs are completely different in terms of their origin, medicinal parts, appearance, and therapeutic applications. Therefore, it is necessary to distinguish between them.
Differences in Origin and Medicinal Parts:
Zi Jin Pi is the root bark of the Magnolia officinalis, which belongs to the Magnoliaceae family. Zi Jing Pi is the bark of the Cercis chinensis, which belongs to the Fabaceae family.
In the book "Discussions on Varieties of Chinese Medicinal Materials" edited by Xie Zongwan, the history and varieties of Zi Jing Pi and Zi Wei Pi, as well as other related materials, are clearly explained. According to the book, the origins of these two herbs can be traced back to different sources:
The root bark of Magnolia officinalis is commonly known as Zi Jin Pi and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties. It is used to treat various conditions such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dysentery.
On the other hand, the bark of Cercis chinensis is known as Zi Jing Pi and has a different usage in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to treat conditions such as bleeding disorders, menstrual irregularities, and uterine bleeding.
Differences in Medicinal Properties and Therapeutic Applications:
Zi Jin Pi (Magnolia officinalis) is known for its bitter taste and has properties such as promoting the flow of Qi, removing stagnation, and relieving pain. It is often used to treat conditions related to the digestive system, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and loss of appetite.
Zi Jing Pi (Cercis chinensis), on the other hand, has a sour taste and is used for its astringent properties. It is commonly used to treat conditions related to bleeding, such as uterine bleeding, nosebleeds, and bleeding gums.
In conclusion, although both Zi Jin Pi and Zi Jing Pi are referred to as "purple bark" in English, it is important to differentiate between them in terms of their origin, medicinal parts, appearance, and therapeutic applications. This will ensure the correct usage and understanding of these two medicinal herbs in traditional Chinese medicine.
